Windows Buying Guide: How to choose the right wooden windows
Living in a period property makes you a custodian of its heritage features – and timber windows are top of the list when it comes to the details that need your attention. Ventrolla manage to renovate 79% of all timber windows. However, if the original windows in your home have reached a point where they can no longer be restored – or if you’ve added an extension and you’re looking for new windows to blend in seamlessly – you may be wondering where to begin in your search for the right wooden windows.
Where do I start?
Being true to the architectural integrity of your home is the best way to maintain its value, financially and aesthetically. So a great place to start when choosing the right wooden windows is to establish the era of your home. If your current windows aren’t originals, it’s time for a little detective work to ascertain what the windows would have looked like when it was built.
While you may prefer a different style of window to the ones you’ve got, deviating from authenticity can mean that you end up with windows that aren’t in keeping and can have a detrimental effect on your home. Not only can the wrong windows put future buyers off, but they could devalue your property, too.
Which materials are best for my windows?
It’s likely that the windows you are replacing will be timber, if you live in a period property. And the beauty of choosing wood for your new windows is that you can sympathetically replicate the material as well as detail of the original design.. Oak has traditionally be the natural choice, but window specialists, like Ventrolla, have identified a growing interest in sustainable alternatives. Sapele and Accoya, for example, are exceptionally durable sustainable hardwoods, which are an excellent option for sash and casement windows. You can read more about them here.
What are the benefits of wooden windows?
Wood is, quite simply, naturally beautiful. In addition, whether you varnish your frames to leave the wood grain on show or paint them, you can be sure that a good quality hardwood will stand the test of time. Unlike uPVC, timber windows give their homeowners anywhere between 60-80 years of service. Wood is also a naturally insulating material, so as long as your new timber windows have all the modern innovations, like draught proofing built in, you can boost energy efficiency and reduce noise from outside.
What window frame style do I need?
Sash windows aren’t the only style that period properties are known for. Your home could have had casement, arch, French door, tilt and turn or cottage style windows. There are a surprising range of different types of window in period properties. If you live in a Listed property or within a conservation area, it’s important to replicate the original look and feel as closely as possible. An expert like Ventrolla can help you navigate the finer points of this and a local planning department will be able to offer advice, too.
Choosing window glass and glazing
While originally timber sash and casement windows would have been single glazed, you can now enjoy the modern benefits of slim double glazing or secondary glazing for a warmer, quieter and more secure home. All without compromising the style and detail of your new windows. Sash windows don’t have to mean a draughty home with clever innovations, like Ventrolla’s sealing system.
Picking the right window furniture
The style of sash hardware remained fairly consistent over the years, although the Victorian preference for more ornate detail can be seen in some designs. Traditionally brass was used to make timber window furniture, but more recently polished and brushed chrome have become popular. You may want to mirror originally hardware on your new windows, but you could also choose the option which you find easiest to use – but do check with a planning officer if you’re not sure.
Selecting suitable window security
The ironmongery you select will keep your home secure as well as complementing the period and style of your property. Fasteners come in a range of styles and finishes, such as lockable Brighton fasteners. And casement windows can be secured easily, with new stays or fasteners complete with key locks. Sash restrictors are also a good idea – discreet and cylindrical, screwing into the side style of the top sash they restrict the height the bottom sash can travel to, making access harder. You can read more about securing windows here.
If you need more advice on choosing the right timber windows for your home, the team at Ventrolla are happy to help – contact them for your free, no-obligation consultation.