Rotten timber sash windows in conservation area given a modern make-over

9th March 2023

Period properties in conservation areas are more challenging – but certainly not impossible - as this recent installation shows.

This Victorian house is situated in the heart of The Avenues in Hull – an area covered by a Conservation Area that stretches across several streets.

The owners of this magnificent property wanted to replace the rotten timber windows which were only single-glazed and therefore not providing enough protection against draughts and heat-loss.

The bay and arched windows were very unique and due to the property’s age and status, we needed to take careful advice and guidance from the experts.

Planning requirements

We liaised very closely with Hull City Council’s planning department throughout the design phase, and took care of all the necessary legislative requirements.

The main concern was to match the new UPVC sash windows to the original timber windows as closely as possible.

EYG’s Operations Manager Martin Littlefield said: “Before the installation, we had a significant amount of work to do with Hull City Council’s Conservation Officer and the planning department, to get our profile and the aesthetics matched with the original windows.

“We had to remove all the internal timber work and our installers carried out extensive buildings works which has all resulted in bringing this house back to its original state,” he added.

Improved thermal efficiency

The house now benefits from double glazed UPVC windows with A-rated glass – making a huge difference to the thermal efficiency of the property.

Martin added: “This was a very complex and difficult installation, but the care and attention to detail meant that we handled it appropriately and achieved the outcome that the home owners wanted.

“They were over the moon with how the installation turned out, and we are very proud that we managed to give them everything they asked for within very strict and confined regulations.”

He added: “The house is now far warmer, and for this family with young children that was a main priority as the house had been very cold and draughty.

“They will also benefit from reduced energy bills as the windows will prevent heat loss.”

The family also replaced the old entrance double doors with a sleek black full-glazed UPVC anthracite grey front door which was a perfect match for this heritage property.

The door also not only offers excellent thermal benefits but also greatly improved the overall security of the home, featuring state-of-the-art locking mechanisms and a strong durable frame.

Our doors and windows all come with a ten-year guarantee, and our windows have A-rated glass as standard - which prevents 94 per cent of energy loss, resulting in reduced heating bills.

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