How to Fit an Escutcheon: Tools, Styles and Finish Options Explained
If you're upgrading your door hardware or simply replacing a tired keyhole cover, learning how to fit an escutcheon is a great way to improve both the look and functionality of your door. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from tools and installation to selecting the right style and finish. Whether you're a DIY novice or simply curious, we’ve got you covered.
What Is an Escutcheon and Why Does It Matter?
An escutcheon is a decorative plate that surrounds a keyhole, helping to protect the door surface while giving it a tidy, finished look. Common on both interior and exterior doors, escutcheons also help prevent wear around the keyhole and can deter tampering on entrance doors.
They might be small, but escutcheons make a big difference in both design and durability.
Whether you're protecting freshly painted walls, reducing door slams, or elevating the overall look of a space, a good door stop plays a more important role than most people realise. It's a small detail with big impact — and getting the right one for your space can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down what truly matters when choosing a door stop, the different types available, and how to avoid common mistakes. We’ll also show you how SDS London’s carefully curated collection of premium door stops can help you find the perfect fit — whether for home, office, or commercial spaces.
Understanding the Importance of a Door Stop
A door stop isn’t just a functional accessory — it’s a protector, a space saver, and in many cases, a design feature.
Its main job? Preventing damage. Without a proper stop, doors can swing into walls, damaging plaster, skirting boards, or even furniture. In busy areas, it can also reduce noise, improve safety, and extend the life of door hardware by
When designing or renovating a home, the smallest details often make the biggest impact — and window fittings are no exception. The choice between contemporary vs traditional window fittings goes beyond aesthetics; it also influences how your windows function, feel, and harmonise with your space.
In this guide, we’ll explore the defining traits of both styles, compare materials and finishes, and help you decide which option best suits your interior — or whether a blended approach could be right for you.
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Defining Contemporary and Traditional Window Fittings
Traditional window fittings reflect the craftsmanship and architectural details of period homes. Think Victorian sash fasteners, Georgian casement stays, or Edwardian-style handles — often made from aged brass or bronze with ornate detailing.
Contemporary window fittings, by contrast, are sleek, streamlined, and minimalist. They are designed to complement modern architecture, with clean lines and subtle finishes that focus on function
Casement windows remain one of the most popular window styles in both traditional and contemporary properties. Whether you’re renovating a period home or upgrading to sleek, modern fittings, understanding what comes in a casement window set is essential to ensure smooth operation, enhanced security, and a polished aesthetic.
In this guide, we’ll break down the components commonly found in casement window sets, explain the difference between traditional and modern fittings, and offer tips on choosing or customising the right set for your project.
Introduction to Casement Window Sets
A casement window set refers to the full collection of hardware fittings required to operate and secure a casement-style window. Unlike sash windows, casement windows are hinged on the side and typically open outwards or inwards, much like a door. To make them functional and secure, they require a coordinated set of fittings.
Buying a complete set rather than sourcing individual components ensures consistency
 The Complete Guide to Window Weather Sealing: Preventing Water, Air & Dust Ingress in UK Homes
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From heritage terraces to modern flats, UK homes face their fair share of weather challenges. Rain, wind, and fluctuating temperatures can all cause unwanted air, water, and dust to enter your home—often through poorly sealed windows. Whether you're battling draughts or trying to cut down on your energy bills, window weather sealing is a crucial part of maintaining a warm, dry, and comfortable living environment.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about window seal solutions in the UK, including how to identify issues, types of sealing options, and how to apply and maintain them properly.
What Is Window Weather Sealing?
Window weather sealing refers to the process of insulating the gaps around window frames to prevent air, water, and dust ingress. This barrier can be formed by rubber, foam, brush seals, or sealant, depending on the type of window and the level of exposure.
Hardware is one of those subtle elements that, when chosen correctly, completes the look of a space. Whether you’re restoring a Victorian orangery, fitting out a Georgian conservatory, or adding traditional charm to a modern glazed extension, the finish of your screwjack
Period homes have a charm that’s hard to replicate. From Georgian elegance to Victorian grandeur, the details make all the difference. One often-overlooked detail is window furniture. Traditional window furniture not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of period properties but also ensures functionality and longevity.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about traditional window furniture, helping you make informed choices that honour the character of your heritage home.
Why Period-Appropriate Hardware Matters Using authentic or sympathetically designed period window furniture preserves the integrity of your property. Incorrect fittings can look out of place and may even damage original timber or compromise window function.
Whether you're restoring original sashes or renovating a countryside cottage, heritage window fittings ensure your efforts remain true to the era while meeting modern-day expectations.
Introduction to Casement Window Hardware Issues Inward opening casement windows are a classic feature in many period and heritage properties, valued for their ventilation, ease of use, and traditional charm. However, like all mechanical elements, the inward opening casement window fittings can suffer wear and tear over time. From sticking sashes to sagging frames, these issues can affect not just functionality but also security and energy efficiency.
This guide explores the most common problems with casement window hardware and offers expert advice on how to fix and maintain your fittings for long-term performance.
Common Problems with Inward Opening Casement Windows
Sticking Windows One of the most frequent complaints from homeowners is a window that sticks or becomes difficult to open and close.
Inward Opening vs Outward Opening Casement Windows: Which Fittings Do You Need?
When it comes to traditional and modern window design, casement windows remain a timeless and practical choice. But one essential factor to consider is whether your windows open inwards or outwards—a decision that not only affects ventilation and aesthetics but also determines the types of casement window fittings required.
In this article, we’ll explore the difference between inward opening vs outward opening casement windows, compare the hardware needed for each, and help you choose the right fittings for your property—whether you’re working on a heritage renovation or a new build.
Understanding Casement Windows
Casement windows are hinged on the side and open either to the inward or outward direction, unlike sash windows which slide vertically. Their simplicity, versatility, and superior ventilation make them ideal for a wide range of properties—from period cottages to contemporary extensions.
Conservatory & Orangery Window Openers: Choosing the Right Screwjack for Your Space
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Glazed living spaces like conservatories and orangeries are beautiful extensions of the home, allowing natural light to flood in and offering a seamless connection with the outdoors. However, without adequate ventilation, these rooms can quickly become uncomfortably hot or humid. That’s where screwjack window openers come in — combining functionality with refined design to create a practical, discreet solution for roof window ventilation.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about conservatory window openers, with a focus on screwjack systems for roof windows, so you can choose the right setup for your space.
Why Ventilation Is Important in Glazed Spaces
Conservatories and orangeries are primarily constructed using large areas of glass, which means they’re excellent at trapping heat. While this is ideal in cooler months, it can pose a challenge in summer or during sunny spells. Without
When designing a modern home or updating a contemporary space, every detail counts — and window fittings are no exception. From the finish and functionality to the overall aesthetic, choosing the right contemporary window fittings can enhance both the style and performance of your windows.
Whether you're creating a sleek new build or refining an urban apartment, this guide will help you select modern window hardware that complements your space, elevates your interiors, and offers long-lasting durability.
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What Are Contemporary Window Fittings?
Contemporary window fittings are defined by their clean lines, minimal detailing, and functional elegance. These are the handles, locks, stays, and latches that sit seamlessly within today’s modern architectural styles. Unlike ornate traditional fittings, contemporary styles favour simplicity and subtlety — prioritising smooth operation and a refined look.
Common types of contemporary window fittings include:
Maintaining and restoring traditional window furniture is an essential part of preserving the charm and functionality of period properties. Whether you're working with heritage sash windows or antique casements, the right care can enhance their longevity and aesthetic appeal. In this guide, we'll walk you through the types of fittings, how to spot when they need attention, and step-by-step instructions for cleaning, restoring, and protecting them for years to come.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters
Traditional window furniture doesn’t just serve a functional purpose—it also contributes significantly to a building's character and heritage value. Proper upkeep ensures:
Smooth operation of sashes or casements
Prevention of rust, corrosion, or wood damage
Retention of original design features and finishes
Avoidance of expensive full replacements
For those invested in restoring sash windows or maintaining period window furniture, a proactive approach is far more cost-effective than reactive repairs.
