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02 October 2025
Tea staining is the surface discolouration that can develop on stainless steel, often appearing as brown marks that resemble dried tea. Despite its appearance, tea staining is not rust, nor is it a sign of structural failure. It is purely cosmetic and does not affect the performance or strength of your window and door hardware.
19 August 2025
When it comes to securing your front door, not all cylinder locks are created equal. TS007 is a British Standard Kitemark specifically designed to safeguard front entrance cylinders from common forced-entry techniques, including drilling, picking, bumping, snapping, and plug extraction.
05 August 2025
When it comes to quality, durability, and efficiency in window and door manufacturing, Q-wood has quickly become the go-to alternative to traditional timber beads. But don’t just take our word for it, hear directly from professionals who’ve made the switch and never looked back.
17 June 2025
When it comes to building safety in schools, care homes, offices or residential properties, window restrictors, also known as opening limiters, play a vital role. These simple yet effective devices help reduce the risk of accidents, particularly falls from height.
18 February 2025
SDH is pleased to announce the successful development of the first sliding sash window, featuring slimline glazing bars and a 44mm thick sash, designed to meet the requirements of PAS 24: 2022. This was made possible through a collaboration with a consortium of stakeholders, including Accoya, ERA, and Midland Joinery.
16 December 2024
As winter draws near, the shorter days and colder weather can present new challenges for homeowners. With the holiday season bringing moving many people around, criminals may take advantage of these factors. It’s more important than ever to secure your home’s entry points—particularly your doors, which serve as the first line of defence. There are several cost-effective hardware upgrades that can significantly improve your existing door's security.
04 November 2024
When choosing between weather seals, understanding the type and material is essential to ensure you select the best option for durability, performance, and value. Two well-known brands in the market, Schlegel and Deventer, offer distinct solutions for different sealing needs. Schlegel produce foam-based weather seals, while Deventer specialises in TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) seals. We’ll compare the two brands and help you decide which is best for your needs.
24 September 2024
When it comes to upgrading your home’s front door, striking the perfect balance between a traditional aesthetic and top-tier security can be challenging. Whether you live in a period property or simply want to add a classic touch to your modern home, traditional doors are often admired for their timeless elegance. However, they don’t always meet today’s security standards.
25 June 2024
When it comes to choosing the right hinges for your project, the material can make a significant difference in terms of durability, appearance, and functionality. Stainless-steel hinges are a popular choice due to their strength, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. But when exactly should you use stainless-steel hinges?
14 March 2024
Windows are essential components of your home's functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. When it comes to choosing window hardware, homeowners are presented with a few options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. From traditional wood to modern PVC, understanding the pros and cons of different window frame materials can help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
12 February 2024
Changing your door lock cylinder can be easy, and it takes less than 5 minutes! View our short step-by-step guide to change a door lock cylinder. It is a quick and easy solution that won't just save you time but also a considerable amount of money.
19 January 2024
Selecting the perfect door threshold may seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of building design, but its impact on both functionality and aesthetics cannot be understated. Whether you're planning for a residential entrance or a bustling commercial space, the right door threshold can make a significant difference in terms of energy efficiency, accessibility, durability, and overall performance.
06 December 2023
When choosing between sash weights and spiral balances there are some key considerations. Below we will explain these considerations in more detail, so you can make a more informed decision on whether to use sash window weights or spiral sash balances when manufacturing timber sash windows
13 November 2023
In an era of escalating living costs and skyrocketing energy prices, individuals are actively seeking ways to curtail expenses by enhancing energy efficiency within their homes. With the multitude of options available to bolster home energy efficiency, choosing the right approach can be overwhelming. However, a standout solution for draught proofing windows and doors is the Schlegel Aquamac Weather Seal.
20 October 2023
When it comes to adding character and elegance to your home, sash windows have always been a timeless choice. Their classic design and historical significance make them a popular choice among homeowners who appreciate the charm of traditional architecture. For many properties that are listed or in conservation areas it is also a mandatory requirement to have Sash Windows. No Sash Window is complete without the essential element, sash window furniture.
03 October 2023
If you're manufacturing timber windows and doors, understanding U-values is vitally important, when ensuring compliance with building regulations. With higher energy costs and a general push to improve the efficiency of houses in the UK through government policy, the energy efficiency of homes has never been more important. U-values are the key metric for assessing the energy efficiency of the windows and doors, so it's good practice to understand these values, especially if you're manufacturing windows and doors.
12 July 2023
Timber French windows are a popular choice for many homes throughout the UK, as they provide a timeless look, especially for older period-styled properties. Producing French casement windows with two sashes and a fixed centre mullion is one option when manufacturing a French window.
16 June 2023
The benefits of internally glazing a window are many, starting with the fact that your beads are now on the inside of the building, protected from rain, snow, and sun, which can affect the size and appearance of your window from the outside.
13 June 2023
Timber windows exude timeless elegance, adding character to any home. Learning how to maintain and repair them is crucial to keeping them in a fantastic state.
19 October 2022
Is your home winter ready? Preparing your home for winter by making sure your windows and doors are as energy efficient as possible will certainly save you money on your energy bill.
21 September 2022
All wood types contain organic acids varying in amount between species, Accoya has a similar level to oak and western cedar which, in moist conditions, may accelerate water-induced corrosion in metals. So if you’re using Accoya to manufacture windows and doors, it’s essential to understand what hardware is recommended.
20 July 2022
An essential part of ironmongery installation is ensuring you have a well-informed ironmongery schedule. Especially if you're working on large commercial or residential projects
21 March 2022
Knowing your home is secure adds peace of mind to you and your family. And it's important to know what steps you can take to ensure your home has maximum security, allowing you to sleep sound at night. At SDH, we believe this starts with the door cylinder you choose, and with various options on the market, it can be confusing for you to decide which one is the most secure and suitable choice for your door.
23 February 2022
It's important to understand that a well-ventilated home will maintain a comfortable and healthy living environment for the occupants. And installing trickle vents into your windows is one of the most energy-efficient, cost-effective, and secure ways of ventilating your home.
17 January 2022
There are many lengthy and intricate processes involved when manufacturing external solid timber doors; throw in your material and labour costs, and it could take up to a week to finish one timber door. We're sure the quality of the external doors you're manufacturing is simply the best, and your customers are thrilled every single time. But with timber prices rising and the production of doors becoming more expensive, a quicker and more cost-effective solution is just what you need. That's where SDH comes in.
06 January 2022
Manufacturing bespoke windows and doors entails many processes that take time, precision, and patience. One of the most common problems joiners face is that their manufacturing process is costly, lengthy, and very labour intensive. But what if there was a way of reducing all of the above and so much more?
07 December 2021
Steel sash weights were created to replace traditional cast-iron and lead weights. If you're restoring any sash windows and the weights need to be replaced, steel is a great option, especially if you're exchanging single glazed units for double glazed. Steel is denser than cast iron so you're able to use larger weights in the same size window, which will counterbalance the added weight of new double-glazed units in a lot of instances.
04 October 2021
At SD Hardware we believe that being able to measure and change a door cylinder is as useful as knowing how to change a car tyre. Not only is it a basic and useful skill to learn, but it could also save you a hefty bill from a locksmith should your cylinder become broken or damaged through general wear and tear or in the event of a break-in, costing you up to £150 should your cylinder need replacing. But don't worry because we've got you covered with our step-by-step guides on how to measure your cylinder and how to change a door cylinder.
31 August 2021
The function of any door is obvious, but what's often overlooked is the important role the design and styling of the front door plays in the overall aesthetic of a home. The front door is the one door that every homeowner touches, often multiple times, each day. So why do we not put enough consideration into ensuring this integral element of our home gives off the best first impression?
03 November 2020
The introduction of Part Q in our industry has had an effect like no other regulation previously. There is a lot of confusion out there about what is relevant. We’d like to address this by providing joiners with the correct information and help you make informed decisions.
09 October 2020
Glazing is a major part of a finished window for weatherproofing, security and aesthetics. Below we raise the key problems and provide advice on how to overcome these to produce a finished window that not only lasts longer, but is more efficient to produce and complies with FENSA regulations.
05 February 2020
Below you will find guidelines and best practice for fitting hardware to all types of timber species including the slightly more acidic species such as Oak, Accoya and Cedar where corrosion can sometimes be a higher risk. At SDH we recommend you also refer to the Accoya technical training manual by Accsys and the BWF for further information and guidance.
19 November 2019
At SDH we like to go the extra mile when it comes to service. With that in mind we’d like to introduce ‘Marketing Assistance’. Which we believe will help your customers decide on those all important finishing touches.
17 April 2019
There are many options when choosing a friction hinge for your or your customer's windows. Below is a guide to the different solutions and why you may use them. Hopefully this will help make the decision a little easier. As always, if there is anything that you are unsure of please get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
28 November 2017
Cleaning windows is one of less frequent household jobs we have to do, therefore knowing the right tricks for achieving a glimmering, streak-free shine will make your home look as bright and smart as it can be. But what exactly do you need to obtain that ultimate crystal clear look? SD Hardware have put together a guide to all the cleaning items you need, and many of them you'll be able to find around your own home!
08 September 2017
When it comes to improving the energy efficiency of your home, working out the best methods to keep your windows as well insulated as possible can be a puzzling task. So to demystify draught proofing from double glazing, SD Hardware have put together a guide to work out exactly what you need to do to keep your home at the right temperature depending on the season.
18 August 2017
Sash windows offer many different benefits to your home - reliable, energy efficient, super secure - however, maintaining the condition of your newly installed windows can come with the odd question mark. If you're wondering how to keep your sash window moving parts looking and functioning at their best, SD Hardware will take you through everything you need to know in order to extend the life of these timeless fittings.
19 June 2017
Understanding the ins and outs of window furniture terminology is often not the easiest of tasks. From friction hinges to windows restrictors and espagnolette handles, this product area is full of specialist terms and hardware crafted for very particularly applications. At SD Hardware, we believe that navigating through the jargon shouldn't be a baffling experience, so if you're new to buying window hardware, we've put together a guide to getting to know the various parts and pieces needed to dress your window.
20 April 2017
You may not have realised but now is the perfect seasons for bi-fold doors. Now that the days are getting lighter and longer, investing in a great quality door kit is just what you need now Spring is well underway and the summer months are also fast approaching. But before you go ahead and buy you may have a few questions that you need answering. SD Hardware have put together an unmissable guide on all you need to know about Bi-Folding doors and exactly why you need one for your home.
24 March 2017
It's March which means that Spring is in the air; and as the weather is getting warmer you may be planning some great new projects to upgrade your home. The reoccurring winter months can take their toll on your exterior metal furnishings - they may have been there since you moved in all those years ago! - and you can often find when you're out and about in the summer that those handles, knobs and various escutcheons look rusty and tired. Alternatively, maybe your tastes have changed and you're wanting to upgrade to a more durable and timeless design.
16 February 2017
A cold and draughty house won't be comfortable for anyone in the winter months. Not only does it cost more to heat it can also be a health hazard, particularly to the more vulnerable in society. If you'd like a warmer, greener, and more energy efficient home, then any gaps around your doors and windows where warm air can escape need to be filled. Below we'll discuss the areas to concentrate on and the products you'll need to improve the thermal efficiency of your windows and doors.
14 October 2016
Knowing how to repair or replace a sash window cord is extremely important for preserving the character of your home. Not only is replacing an entire window set more time consuming and expensive, it can needlessly remove a long standing fixture of the room. This guide from SD Hardware will give you the basics on how to replace sash window cord - what you’ll need, and what you should be wary of.
09 June 2016
Due to increasing popularity over the years, espagnolette handles are now available in a range of styles and varied functionality which appeal to any customer. They are an integral part of modern day double glazed windows and the handle can be used to turn several locks around the perimeter of a window. So if you’re on the lookout for window hardware and need a little advice, here’s our guide to espagnolette handles.
17 May 2016
Although windows are important for a practical purpose to provide light and air, they are also a decorative part of the house both inside and outside, so they shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to design. Windows are available in a variety of sizes and styles and while this means having different opening mechanisms and structures to choose from, it also means you can customise nearly any window to suit your changing tastes and needs. One of the most popular styles of window is a sash window, which is also known as a ‘hung window’. These are especially effective for air circulation and can be appreciated for their aesthetic appearance. So in today’s post, we’re sharing with you our guide to sash window furniture.