Owning a period property is the dream for many. But being in possession of a piece of history can come with a few headaches. One of these is the windows. They play a key role in terms of appearance and function. But at the same time, they’re protected from replacement and some types of renovation.
Windows are an important feature of any Listed Building and they comprise a very significant part of the building’s history. Traditional windows bear witness to the artistic, social, economic and technological developments of past ages. They are the single element which most serves to establish the character of the building. Traditional, historic windows are such an important part of a Listed Building’s fabric that they should always be retained and repaired rather than replaced by modern examples.
Traditional windows can often be simply and economically repaired, usually at a cost significantly less than replacement. For timber windows this is largely due to the high quality and durability of the timber that was used in the past to make windows. Properly maintained, old timber windows can enjoy extremely long lives. Traditional metal windows can also usually be economically repaired and their thermal performance improved, avoiding the need for total replacement.
Repairing traditional windows rather than replacing them is not only more sustainable but makes better economic sense and crucially, retaining historic windows of significance is an important part of good conservation.
When carrying out repairs to historic windows it is important to save or re-use any old glass, which can be carefully removed from old frames by a skilled joiner. This has irreplaceable qualities of unevenness due to the original process of manufacture: cylinder glass was produced by opening out a large blown cylinder of glass whilst Crown glass was produced by spinning a large disc. The centre
of this disc, where the pontil was attached, is the bullseye which was generally used in an out of sight location or recycled rather than used as a fake picturesque add on as it is today. The flaws (features) in historic glass catch the light and show off the features which cannot be found in modern glass.
That is why Tatraglass are passionate about the correct period glass being used in restoration projects and with our wealth of knowledge and expertise, can offer advice to enable you to make an informed decision. Our restoration glass has been supplied to Grade I and II listed properties, iconic country estates, Royal Palaces, National Trust and English Heritage properties up and down the UK. It is also acknowledged by relevant historical and planning bodies as an authentic substitute to maintain the aesthetics of facades for period properties.
Tatraglass are based in Leicestershire but we can courier anywhere in the UK, Europe and Worldwide. We would also be happy to send samples of any of our glass types. Please feel free to give our expert team a call to discuss your requirements in more detail on (01509) 235387 or drop us an e-mail on contact@tatraglass.co.uk