Purchasing a new set of windows can be a big change for the home, and even more so if you live in a listed building or conservation area where strict requirements prevent homeowners from installing cheaper uPVC frames.
But gone are the days of the ubiquitous white plastic frames, as discerning property owners move to add value and elegance to their homes with bespoke designs and natural materials.
SoGlos speaks to Alex Lane, general manager of Timber Windows — a Cotswolds-based window company that supplies real wood bespoke windows — to find out everything you need to know about updating your property's front door and frames.
How can we tell when our windows need updating?
You may be noticing condensation on your existing windows and experiencing cold and draughts and high energy bills.
Or you may be worried about security or the cost of maintenance; or the fact your existing windows may not be sympathetic to the style of your home; or perhaps you want to have a general makeover.
The best place to start is by visiting a showroom. We have six across the Cotswolds and here you can view designs, speak to our showroom assistants and designers, and go from there.
What type of houses suit which type of windows? Is there an etiquette to be aware of?
Traditionally, timber has been the material of choice for windows and doors. You can usually see where the original timber windows have been replaced with inappropriate materials or designs to the detriment of the property.
Installing quality timber windows to suit the correct period and style will enhance the aesthetics and add value to any property. Buyers of traditional homes can be very demanding and will expect timber windows and doors to match the original design.
But, this is the beauty of a bespoke product — it’s entirely your own choice and allows you to make your home in the image you want.
If someone has just bought a listed property and the windows need replacing — what do they need to know?
It’s important that, for any listed property, you seek proper planning permission. Work should not take place in a listed property without permission as, after all, the purpose of planning permissions is to protect the history of our beautiful Cotswolds location.
Our designers are very experienced in working with listed buildings and can point you in the right direction to get the process moving forward. We also have contacts throughout the Cotswolds who specialise in helping clients get the approvals required for changes to their property.
Our own dedicated listed product range has been approved and accepted by many listed building officers and will maintain the character and heritage of your property while achieving modern standards of insulation and security.
Does a front door need to match the windows?
Simply put, no! We have worked on many properties where the front door is completely different from the windows and is used as a centrepiece for the house.
The front door is the focal point for most houses, so a pop of colour or a unique design can really make your property look stunning.
We have an array of colour options, styles, glass options and panel options which can be amended to suit your requirements and give you a truly unique front door.
This isn’t to say you shouldn’t match the door. We’ve also done plenty of work on properties where the door is in a similar style to the windows and it gives a really sleek look to your property.
Why should we invest in timber over uPVC? Will they last as long?
Timber windows have come a long way since they were the standard 100 years ago. Modern glazing techniques ensure that the highest standards of insulation and heat retention are assured.
Whilst the material is the same, the manufacturing, preservative and paint finish has dramatically improved, which means that if timber products are cared for, they can last a lifetime.
PVC windows often look out of place in traditional houses and can reduce property values. They are not accepted in listed properties or conservation areas and are not always a good investment.
UPVC trended in the 80s and 90s due to its low price point, the influx of companies producing the product and a boom in new house builds. But it's not environmentally friendly to manufacture and, because the windows are made cheaply, they don’t last as long as consumers are told they do.
At Timber Windows Cotswolds, we give lengthy guarantees to our customers because we are confident the product will stand the test of time.
It’s important to also note (although I am, of course, biased!) that timber products look incredible in comparison to their uPVC counterparts.
Can customers order online or should they come into the showroom?
Ultimately, we are a face-to-face business. We firmly believe that customers should see our product before buying it; and this is our main driver for the beautiful showrooms we have across the Cotswolds.
A showroom visit followed by a site visit to a property is our standard process (or vice versa).
Can you talk us through the customer journey and how long it all takes?
As we are a bespoke product and completely made-to-order, it does take a bit of time from initial contact through to installation.
Following a design visit to the property, a surveyor will attend to get correct and accurate measurements and fitting details for our experienced installation teams, ready for installation.
Once the survey visit has happened, we place the order into manufacture and normally expect to receive the finished product in eight to 12 weeks. Soon after, we would be at the property to install the bespoke products.
Throughout the whole journey we keep customers updated regularly and we're always at the end of the phone for any questions.
For more on Timber Windows and how to book a consultation, call (01285) 653999 or visit timberwindows.com.
