Why aren't all window hinges like this?

I expect another reason for doing them like that is so that they can fold back against a wall even when the window is recessed into the opening somewhat.

Lots of modern windows have hinges that allow cleaning access.

I believe in Scotland that is a building reg requirment.

Jonathan

DG we had installed 11 years ago: you open the window to 90deg, then press a clip at top and at bottom. This releases the window which can then slide parallel to itself for about 6 inches (so, still at 90deg to the opening). After cleaning both sides just close the window.

just an early 1950's easy clean hinge so you can get your hand through,,,,no big deal...but quality

not in scotland you can't where the window is installed in the correct position behind the dpc.....

Tricky having a vertical DPC in a solid (sandstone) wall though.

If that window had normal hinges then a gust of wind could blow it back and damage the hinges. Crittal windows have always been like this, AFAIK.

The buyer of this flat will knock a fair bit off to cover the cost of DG replacement, or secondary glazing if this is in a conservation area.

I would keep them ....quality lasts forever

Crittal are still in business and make double-glazed, thermally isolated modern metal versions though (if you have very deep pockets)

You calling iron-frame windows "quality"? PoS.

They look identical to those in my old house, built in 1947.

Bill

My 45+ year old workshop has exactly the same windows. No sign of rust, all open and close perfectly.

Mike

They might open and close perfectly, how about their insulating properties?

Replacement windows I have had fitted open inwards, making the outside even easier to clean.

But meaning that you have to remove any pot plants or ornaments.

I had a conversation with an elderly French woman some years ago and we talked about this. She liked the idea of opening outwards, but worried about cleaning. When I told her that we have a window cleaner who comes round once a month to do it, she thought it a wonderful idea!

Means you have to move any bulky furniture under the window.

Assuming you clutter the window sill up with such things.

You can also get windows that pivot about a horizontal point halfway up. That brings the outside in, without having to worry about plant pots.

Its what I do.

But I suspect you don't live in a tower block.

Don't French windows open inwards because they tend to (historically) have external shutters which are useful to keep out the heat of the sun during the middle of the day.

Inward opening windows make it difficult to fit curatin and blinds.

Local library has interesting timber windows that swivel horizontally about their middle but still use some sort of reflex hinge so they can be turned almost inside out for easy cleaning. The hinges are marked 'made in Norway' and must have been expensive, despite being single glazed (refurb in 1986). Pity it is a single story building :-)