Double Glazing for Listed Buildings: Balancing Energy Conservation and Heritage Conservation

Do you live in a listed building? Have you noticed that your original timber windows are draughty or prone to condensation? Would you like to replace them with modern uPVC alternatives but you’re unsure of the legislation surrounding heritage properties? If this all sounds familiar to you, one of the most important things you need to consider is how to balance energy conservation with heritage conservation. In this blog, we’ll look at the best ways to do this.

Timber-effect windows for period properties

At Emereo, we install a wide range of timber-effect windows. Our uPVC timber-effect windows are designed to tastefully replicate the authentic appearance of original timber windows. They incorporate a selection of historic features into their design including:

• Mechanical or fully welded joints
• Realistic wood grain finishes
• Choice of painted effect and treated wood colours
• Optional Georgian bar detailing
• Selection of decorative glazing
• Flush sash frames
• Mock sash horns
• Authentic period hardware

When combined, these period features make our uPVC timber-effect windows almost indistinguishable from their real wood counterparts. That’s why they are regularly accepted for installations in conservation areas across the UK.

What to consider when replacing timber windows in a conservation area

If you live in a conservation area and you’d like to replace your original timber windows with modern uPVC alternatives, there are certain things you need to consider. In most cases, for single occupancy conservation area properties, you will not need planning permission to replace your timber windows with uPVC ones unless the local authority has put in place an article 4 direction.

Certain local authorities use article 4 directions to restrict the scope of permitted development rights in areas of particular historical significance. If an article 4 direction is in place in your area, you will need to contact your local authority before carrying out any work on your home that may detract from the historical character of the building or local area.

Your local authority will have a broad understanding of what is acceptable when renovating a period property. They will be familiar with certain uPVC timber-effect windows and will be able to offer advice on which modern window types would be suitable as a replacement. At Emereo, our comprehensive range of timber-effect uPVC windows can be custom-designed to meet your exact specifications. This makes them far more likely to be accepted for use in UK heritage properties.

The importance of energy conservation in UK heritage properties

There is currently a huge drive to improve the thermal performance of all UK homes. The government has pledged to significantly reduce the country’s carbon emissions by 2030 and to achieve net zero by 2050. To do this, an element of retro-fitting windows into period properties must be implemented. Therefore, the importance of using uPVC windows in heritage homes cannot be underestimated.

When compared to old timber windows, uPVC timber-effect windows provide a wealth of benefits. Using the latest manufacturing techniques and incorporating a range of modern features, uPVC timber-effect windows will significantly enhance any home’s thermal performance.

• A+ energy efficiency rating for a warmer home
• Better insulation for reduced heating bills
• Low-E glazing to reduce solar gain
• 28mm double glazing or optional 40mm triple glazing upgrade
• Thermally efficient multi-chambered frames

uPVC windows are now a realistic alternative to traditional timber windows. If you’re thinking about installing uPVC timber-effect windows in your heritage home, there are many other reasons to choose them over real wood windows.

Other benefits of uPVC timber-effect windows

uPVC timber-effect windows are designed to tastefully replicate the appearance of traditional timber windows. Being made from high performing uPVC, however, they provide a lot of other benefits for homeowners living in both traditional and contemporary homes.

• Cost-effective window replacement option
• Low maintenance uPVC frames
• Flexible design options
• Strong, durable and rot resistant
• Sustainably produced uPVC
• Comprehensive 10-year guarantee
• Super secure multi-point locking systems

As you can see, uPVC timber-effect windows are an excellent window replacement option. For homeowners living in heritage properties, they are a great alternative to timber windows. Make sure that you check with your local authority if you live in a conservation area or listed building before replacing your original timber windows to ensure suitability.

If you’d like to find out more about how uPVC timber-effect windows can enhance your home, contact Emereo today. For more information about our uPVC timber-effect windows or any of our products or services call 01484 792 203 or send us a message online and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.