Transforming Heritage: The Art of Replacing Windows in a Listed Building

When it comes to maintaining the integrity and charm of a listed building, few tasks are as delicate and important as replacing windows. Windows are not just functional elements; they are vital to the historical character and aesthetic of a structure. Upgrading or replacing them can breathe new life into an old building while attending to energy efficiency and conservation standards. Here’s how to navigate the process thoughtfully.

Understanding Listed Buildings

Listed buildings are recognized for their special architectural or historic interest, making them subject to strict regulations. This ensures that any alterations—especially visible ones—preserve the building's unique character. Before diving into window replacement, it's essential to familiarise yourself with local building conservation laws and guidelines.

The Importance of Windows

Windows play a crucial role in historical buildings. They affect the overall appearance, providing stylistic details that reflect the architectural period. They also contribute to a building's energy efficiency and comfort.

Assessing the Current Condition

Before considering replacement, conduct a thorough assessment of the existing windows. Look for:

1. Material Integrity: Are the frames rotting, warped, or cracked?
2. Glazing Condition: Is the glass broken, cloudy, or single-pane?
3. Historical Features: Are there any original hardware or design elements worth salvaging?
4. Ventilation: Is there any

Sometimes, restoration is a viable option. Weigh the pros and cons of repairing versus replacing to decide the best course of action.

Choosing the Right Replacement Windows

When replacing windows in a listed building, it's essential to match the style, materials, and craftsmanship of the original windows as closely as possible. Consider the following;

Material

• Timber: The traditional choice for historical accuracy.
• Aluminium or PVC: Can be used if they mimic the style and dimensions of original windows, but may not be accepted by conservation authorities. ( although there are excellent ones on the market which specify they are Heratage grade my planning department did not accept these as a replacement) therefore we were back to the drawing board.

Style

Study the architectural style of your building: Is it Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian? Ensure that the new windows reflect these styles. Options like casement, sash, or even bespoke designs may be necessary.

Glazing

Use double or triple-glazing to improve energy efficiency while maintaining the look of single-pane windows. Specialist glazing can help keep the visual appearance intact.

Quite a few planning departments like you to use 14mm glass which is not essential and very costly to cut costs. I opted for a 12mm glass which reduced my windows by thousands. Another way to cut costs was to use soft wood in the casements with a hardwood cill. 

Navigating Permissions and Regulations

Always check with your local planning authority before beginning any work. You may need listed building consent (LBC) for window replacements. Preparing a thorough application with supporting documentation detailing how your choices adhere to conservation principles can increase your chances of approval. Ethan at Middleton Joinery was my secret weapon his knowledge was unquestionable.

Finding the Right Professionals

Working with specialists in historic architecture can make a world of difference. Look for professionals with experience in listed buildings who can advise on compliant processes and quality materials.

I first opted to a local company but they didn't have the knowledge with applications and therefore stumbled at the first hurdle. I was scrolling through instagram when I came across a company called Middleton Joinery they had just finished a grade 2 listed barn where they had replaced all of the windows and they looked great.

Middleton joinery is a medium sized company ran by farther and son. When I first made contact I spoke with Ethan who is knowledgeable and calm just the right combination to help me fight my cause with LBC (listed building consent). With his help, I was able to supply the council a window by window report and together we navigated the in-depth questions which then came from LBC.

The main reasons for replacements on my property was none of the windows on the ground floor opened they had been painted closed for many years, some were rotten in places but the worst thing was someone in the 90s has attached secondary double glazing on the inside of the windows. This was not only cumbersome but most of the glazing would not even open it had failed again.

This was a fire hazard. Upstairs only 10% of the windows opened again many of the secondary glazing had failed. Two windows at the front of the property actually open on their own in the middle of the night, so again a security issue. All of this was also impacting the heat loss in the house as the windows were very poorly fitted. so I set about getting them replaced.

I have made many applications to list of building consent at my local council, I thought this was going to be incredibly difficult, however with Ethan's help it was quite an easy exercise. They just need the application in a certain format. We had to provide photographs from a distance and close-ups of any of the windows which were poor.

Because most of the windows wouldn't open it was very difficult to show this on a photograph.

The oldest part of the property set to the front, three of the windows had not got glazing bars in. They were just single panes of glass which is how I wanted the whole look of the house to be.

I told Ethan this and he tried to manage my expectations by saying it's highly unlikely they will allow you but let's go for it. Because two windows on the south east elevation had already been replaced in 2015. I felt that this had set a president for the style and as all of the windows to the rear of the long hall were a mishmash of pained glass.

I felt it would look more in keeping to keep them all the same as the three at the front.

This was a success.

I think it took around eight weeks with a bit of going back and forth. Ethan came out to measure within this 8 week period and as soon as we had the green light he immediately went into production, we had a slight delay of 15 days, but it was definitely worth the wait.

Keeping in Mind Sustainability

Consider eco-friendly alternatives when replacing windows. Sustainable materials and construction methods not only protect the environment but can also enhance the building's longevity. If you can recycle the old windows then try to by selling them on ebay or marketplace on Facebook. Unfortunately the way the windows were attached to the long hall meant we had to cut them but the opening part to the windows could always be recycled into a cold frame for your garden.

Conclusion

Replacing windows in a listed building is not just about functionality; it’s an opportunity to honour and celebrate history. I was able to re open a bricked in window, again this is an honour to have been allowed to do this as for me personally I am adding the character back to this dark hall by giving back some natural light to the room. With careful planning, a commitment to preservation, and the right guidance, you can ensure your project enhances the building’s heritage while bringing it into the modern age. Embrace the challenge and transform your listed property into a comfortable, energy-efficient, and historically appropriate home for generations to come.

If you're considering window replacement in your listed building, contact Middleton Joinery for personalised guidance and solutions tailored to your needs. Let's all preserve history together!

Follow my journey of the restoration of Spenford House on Instagram.

A few photos of the during and immediately after I will be updating the photos when all the Finnishes have been done, don't forget to subscribe to get updates.