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Whether you want to maximise curb appeal or minimise your energy bills, well-made and well-fitted windows are key. We asked Olivia Ditcham from window and door experts, Ayrton Bespoke, to share her advice
Installing high-quality, period-appropriate windows can positively impact both. It can help increase property value because modern, high-quality windows can enhance the value of your home by improving energy efficiency, security and overall aesthetics. Buyers often appreciate the benefits of well-installed windows. You will enjoy enhanced curb appeal because new windows can significantly boost your home’s exterior appearance. By replicating the historical style or complementing the existing architecture, your home is visually enhanced and looks well-maintained. In addition, energy-efficient windows reduce heating and cooling costs, which can be attractive to potential buyers. So this efficiency can be a selling point, highlighting long-term savings. Finally, for period homes, installing windows that match the historical style can maintain or even increase a home’s value by preserving its character while complying with conservation guidelines.
It’s imperative due to the unique architectural details and strict regulations involved. Conservation areas demand suppliers who can accurately replicate original designs, ensuring that any updates or replacements blend seamlessly with the property’s historical character. Accurately replicating frame profiles, glazing bars, curvature and lead bar detailing is often specified in planning guidelines. These details are emphasised within conservation areas with a key requirement being that window replacements are made of timber. Craftsmanship of this kind needs a combination of advanced factory machinery and expert knowledge to ensure timber is accurately surveyed, crafted and installed to meet both aesthetic and building regulations.
It’s crucial that new windows match the historical aesthetic, including details like sash styles, glass types and frame materials. Deviations from these elements could result in windows that look out of place compared to your neighbours’ or fail to meet conservation guidelines, necessitating replacement. Trust in your supplier is paramount and visiting showrooms or local references allows you to inspect the product firsthand, ensuring it meets your expectations.
Timber is always the best option. Using bonded materials can cause problems over time, as they expand and contract at different rates, leading to poor draught sealing and other issues. Look for long-term guarantees that protect your purchase and ensure that the windows stay true to the original design and profiles. Cheaper materials, such as uPVC, may seem appealing on price, but they lack the reliability and longevity of timber. Other materials like metal or composite may attempt to mimic traditional designs, but they simply don’t match the overall quality and precision that timber provides. Some materials mean chunkier frames which reduce the amount of natural light entering the room and don’t add to property resale value.
When considering energy-efficient windows, look for the following key factors:
Shutters are versatile and always look smart. They’re ideal in city homes with street-facing windows because, as well as looking stylish from the inside, they also add a level of privacy and security from the outside world. Not only that, but shutters also offer an opportunity to showcase original features in a period property, for example, where there is a significant architrave you don’t want to hide behind curtains, or where you want to control the direction of light. “Half-height shutters are a great option for large windows when you want to maximise light but still maintain privacy,” says Nina Tileva, creative director at The Traditional Shutter Company London. “Café-style installation is the preferable option for front rooms, when you like to keep the passers-by at bay, but still have natural light coming through.”
