Windows

Windows are not mentioned in our Adaptations Manual, but this page looks at some points to consider when planning an extension or a new-build property.

Contents:

• Height of windows
• Height of window handles
• Space at either side of the window handles
• Opening of Windows : Difficulty Reaching or Difficulty Managing the Handles
• Use of Environmental Controls
• Double Glazing
• Additional Windows

Height of windows

Obviously it is important that wheelchair users or anyone who spends long periods sitting can see out of their windows.
British Standards/Building Regulations advises that the glazing in any window below 800mm from the floor should be "safe". Therefore if windows start at 810mm from the floor level, this should enable users to see out, without incurring any additional costs.

Height of window handles

Wheelchair users or those with limited arm movement may be unable to reach the handles to open and close their windows. The height of the handles will be important for someone who is physically able to operate the handles, if it is necessary for the user to be able to open a particular window.
Anyone with a neuromuscular condition is unlikely to be able to raise their arms; the height of the handles must therefore be lower than the height usually recommended for wheelchair use.
The ideal height is 700mm from the handle to the finished floor level (FFL), although this may depend on the type of handle. This is influenced by the height of the wheelchair arm rests; at this height the hand and forearm can be moved sideways and horizontally to reach the handle, while the elbow remains supported on the wheelchair armrest.
However if the bottom of the window is 800mm+ from the floor (see above) then the handle will have to be higher too.

Space at either side of the window handles

If someone is physically able to operate the window handle, the limited arm movement and inability to reach makes it necessary to approach the controls with the wheelchair parallel and close to the wall. Therefore, there must not be any obstruction 600mm on either side of the handles. Furniture or worktops may impede access, if they are sited in front of windows. This cannot always be avoided, particularly in the bathroom and kitchen, in which case remote operated opening devices may be necessary.

Opening of Windows : Difficulty Reaching or Difficulty Managing the Handles

For wheelchair users or those with limited arm movement who cannot reach the handles, or who are unable to manage conventional handles to open and close their windows, there are various options.

• There is a range of window opening devices and products, which can be fitted to most styles of existing windows, or to new windows, to enable users to open and close them independently.
  
• These may be operated by a winding handle (probably not suitable for someone with a neuromuscular condition) or they may be powered for remote controlled (either by infra red or by push button).

• For details, contact the Disabled Living Foundation on tel 0845 130 9177 or via their website www.dlf.org.uk  (Note that the website does not have details of window opening/closing devices)
  
  
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  Use of Environmental Controls

  Environmental control systems provide independence to severely disabled people, by enabling them to operate domestic appliances and equipment by remote control from a display panel. Window opening/closing devices can be included in the system , enabling the user to open or close the relevant windows independently.
  
  See also Environmental Control Systems page
  
  
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  Double Glazing

  Muscles are the main source of heat production and maintenance of body temperature.  Therefore, the severe muscle wasting in neuromuscular conditions, coupled with the inevitable reduction or lack of mobility, means that it is essential to provide a higher-than-average level of heating, i.e. 21 - 24 degrees C in both the bedroom and bathroom. This is particularly important in the bathroom, especially where it has more than one external wall.  Without adequate heating the bathroom will not be used.

  See Heating page.

  Because of the need for a higher-than-average level of heating, double glazed windows are often specified. 
  
  

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  Additional Windows

  Where an extension for a disabled person is built on the back or side of a house, this may mean that an existing room loses its light. Depending on the layout of the proerty, a roof light or skylight can help with this.