IQ Fountainbridge faced issues with 40 windows across two Edinburgh sites, reporting failed hinges causing windows to drop. Residents struggled with opening and closing these windows. They also requested Tilt & Turn handles for safety. The window overhaul project took place amidst a COVID-19 lockdown in 2021. Mila implemented safe working practices to protect students and staff from COVID-19 and fall hazards.
IQ Student Accommodation, owned by Blackstone, operates 70 residences with 30,000 bedrooms. They have an onsite maintenance team but rely on specialist contractors for complex repairs.
Mila were engaged to survey a number of their sites with on-going window issues.
Mila’s Window Overhaul manager conducted a free inspection, uncovering several health and safety concerns, notably at iQ Fountainbridge and iQ Grove Social Area. The key areas identified were: Failed and malfunctioning window hinges, posing risks of falling windows and injury. The absence of window restrictors at iQ Fountainbridge, crucial for preventing falls from height, especially in student accommodation. Around 40 windows at iQ Fountainbridge had unresolved issues, escalating repair costs over time. Windows not limited to Tilt only Mode, leading to operational challenges and potential damage.
Following Mila’s recommendations, IQ commissioned Mila to upgrade 658 Tilt and Turn windows. This involved replacing handles with locking ones for safety and lubricating all windows for optimal performance.
In total, 372 handles were upgraded, and 15 mechanisms replaced, ensuring the windows’ functionality for the foreseeable future.
Operational Benefits of the project included Enhanced safety with all windows locked in Tilt only mode, meeting health and safety standards. Smooth operation and extended lifespan of windows, reducing maintenance needs. Reduced number of responsive repairs required to be carried out by the in-house maintenance team. This reduced their workload and the costs related to these repairs.
The Environmental Impact comes from the fact that regular maintenance to maximize window lifespans. This reduces the amount of window needing to be replaced each year. As a result landfill waste and carbon emissions from new window production is also reduced.
Residents were very happy to have their windows repaired. Many had lived with window issues such as draughts and being unable to open and close windows during their stay.
