Window Upgrades and Replacements

Whatever the reason for your upgrade, the decision should be one you make with confidence, particularly if you choose Glass-rooms to oversee your project.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF UPGRADING YOUR WINDOWS

Upgrading old windows has immediate and noticeable effects. Double glazing helps keep warm air inside your home and keeps the cold air out. The improved insulation also assists in preventing noise disturbances. Aside from the glazing, ensuring the frames are replaced will reduce the likelihood of condensation and water ingress.

Glass-rooms have a broad range of designs for the client to choose from. Our bespoke approach enables flexibility in choice, whether it is a like for like change or a completely new concept. Our designers and workman combine experience with creativity and fuse this with a passion for the craft which results in finished projects that exude originality and class.

HOW MUCH ENERGY CAN YOU SAVE WITH NEW WINDOWS

As well as the improvement in energy efficiency, there is the huge factor of added security which is something that is of increasing importance to homeowners. In our busy schedules, the added reassurance of knowing our homes are secure provides a sense of relief. Glass-rooms are able to provide advice on how to upgrade or improve your current installations to ensure that security is maximised.

Retaining the originality of listed buildings and ensuring that the character of the property is preserved is a skill that the project managers at Glass Rooms are particularly experienced in. Upgrading windows or doors does not mean that the charm of the property need be lost and Glass-rooms work closely with clients to ensure that the criteria is always met. A successful upgrade ultimately leads to an increase in property value.

ACCREDITATIONS OF A WINDOW FITTER

Glass-rooms are a Certass government authorised company meaning work is regulated to ensure the highest possible standards. The company has over 21 years’ experience and a passion for restoration that preserves the individuality of a property. Each project is handled with tailored care and attention; from consultation to project management through to completion. 

In addition to all the benefits listed above, Glass-rooms also provide

  • Cash back on new installations
  • Environmental Recycling of old windows
  • 10-year guarantee

Replacing Windows in a Grade 2 listed Building

OWNING A LISTED PROPERTY

Owning a listed property inherently instils a sense of pride in the owner; there is a desire to keep the original features but there is also the duty of care to ensure the building is maintained according to current building standards and legislation.

Replacing windows or doors in a grade 2 listed building is not an unachievable feat and one that is becoming commonplace due to a combination of factors; the benefits of having modernised fittings in terms of energy efficiency and an improvement in the skill and craftsmanship in the work that takes place, as well as a changing shift in attitude that believes restoration is in fact an act of preservation, rather than one that serves to destroy the authenticity of the building.

WHY UPGRADE YOUR GRADE 2 LISTED  BUILDINGS WINDOWS & DOORS

The benefits of upgrading are endless. Providing the work is undertaken by an approved and regulated contractor, there is huge potential to add value to the property. Not only this, there is an increasing focus on sustainable development; the effect on the environment, in the long run, is considered before any new builds are undertaken and it is imperative that the same care is taken when dealing with existing property. The reduction in energy consumption equates to lower costs for the property owner and improved insulation will noticeably lower noise pollution. Additionally, keeping a property well maintained by upgrading windows and doors can limit the risk of internal issues such as damp and condensation.

DO I NEED PERMISSION TO ALTER MY LISTED PROPERTY?

There is a process that must be followed when replacing windows in heritage property. If the property is freehold, the local council must give permission before the work is carried out. A leaseholder wishing to make changes would need to gain the permission of both the freeholder and the council before embarking on any changes to the dwelling.

Changes that are made without the relevant consents and permissions should be avoided as the property owner may find themselves having to return the property back to its original state. Those unsettled by this fact should instead feel reassured that there is such an emphasis on retaining the authenticity of listed buildings, and that change to heritage property is regulated in this regard.

It is of no benefit to block works for no sound reason and a typical local council will give consent if the works do not have ‘Any adverse effect upon the special architectural or historic interest of the building or its setting, are appropriate in terms of design, scale, detailing and materials and minimise the loss of the historic fabric of the building.’

TAKING THE PROJECT FORWARDS; FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION

With consent in place, the duty of care extends to ensuring that the work carried out is done so to the highest standard. The pressure of overseeing a task such as window replacement is not one that many property owners wish to undertake personally, and this amplifies the importance in ensuring that the nominated contractor has experience in undertaking works in listed buildings, as well as a sound knowledge of current building regulations and health and safety legislation.

Glass-rooms are a Certass government authorised company meaning work is regulated to ensure the highest possible standards. The company has over 21 years’ experience and a passion for restoration that preserves the individuality of a property. Each project is handled with tailored care and attention; from consultation to project management through to completion.

 

The Benefits in using Glass-rooms are:

  • Bespoke designs that are made to measure
  • A+ energy efficiency / thermal performance
  • Wide choice of colours and designs
  • Increased security
  • 10 year guarantee
  • Manufactured in Britain
  • Cash back on new installations
  • Environmental Recycling of old windows

Clients that are keen to have works undertaken but are unsettled by the application and approval process will be expertly guided by Glass-rooms to ensure that all permissions have been secured before the project goes to site. With a bespoke approach to each client, input can be as involved as the customer wishes, working alongside our contractors every step of the way, or allowing our experienced team to take complete control.

For further information on Glass-rooms visit www.glass-rooms.com or

Contact us for a free consultation by emailing info@glass-roons.com or phoning 01375 644752.

Why choose a Certass government authorised contractor?

What is a Certas Approved Contractor?

CERTASS, has been a UKAS accredited, Government authorised, Certification body since 2006. It currently operates three separate Government authorised certification schemes for Installers within the building refurbishment industry.

Energy Efficient Measures – PAS2030 certification scheme
This scheme allows a company registered to install Energy Efficient Measures which are assessed for undertaking ECO work.

Competent persons scheme – Certass DCLG authorised Competent Person Scheme.
This part of the scheme allows a company registered with Certass to self-certify an installation to current Building Regulations as an alternative to using Building Control or an authority.

Workmanship Standards CQ-Assured – This is a Workmanship quality assurance scheme with Government endorsed standards by TrustMark.

What is UKAS?

UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) is Government approved and regulates certification bodies like Certass to an internationally recognised standard. Certass is accredited against the standard BS EN17065.

A UKAS accreditation is important! It places a duty upon us as a contractor to certify our work against agreed international standards.

Take a look at this short information video to see why you should choose a Certass Government authorised Competent person.