Wood Window Alliance conserving the nation

The Wood Window Alliance has welcomed new research from English Heritage this week which shows that plastic windows and doors are the biggest threat to the nation's conservation areas.

The survey, which asked all UK local authorities about the conditions of their conservation areas and elicited a 75 per cent response rate, found that 83 per cent were under threat from plastic windows and doors.

The Wood Window Alliance (WWA) has long believed that only wood will do when it comes to preserving the character of many traditional buildings and sees the new research as an important step to preserving the characteristics of our urban and rural environments.

On looks alone it's obvious to see why wood is more suitable than other materials for use in conservation areas because the traditional window styles can be more easily achieved in wood than in any other material.

But the benefits of using wood go beyond aesthetics and, contrary to popular belief, wood windows last at least as long as other materials and carry long warranties (typically 30 years on the frame and 8 years on the paint).

Double or triple glazing are also easily achievable in wood without compromising on style and this is particularly important for Grade II listed buildings and in conservation areas where local planning departments or building control often insist on single glazing sightlines.

Nick Quinn, WWA Campaign Chairman, says "Anyone choosing windows for use in a conservation area should look for the Wood Window Alliance heart and tree brandmark on the windows they choose".

"This means that the windows have been independently audited and meet a set of quality standards, including those for sustainability and the environment".

"And for total peace of mind they meet all the relevant British Standards and UK Building Regulations for performance, wind and weather resistance, energy efficiency and have the service life warranties so you can choose timber windows with absolute confidence".

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