Selectaglaze: Heritage and listed buildings – window retrofit checklist

The UK has the oldest building stock in Europe, with around 5.9 million buildings (21%) built before 1919. Many will have heritage and listed status, with all of the associated renovation restrictions and protections. As the UK looks to transition to Net Zero by 2050, effective glazing solutions have their part to play. That’s why Selectaglaze has put together this handy window retrofit checklist to help with your next heritage or listed building project…

1) Know the benefits

Thoughtfully retrofitted secondary glazing can improve all window performance elements, so that it is warmer and quieter inside, whilst retaining the period appearance externally. Improved thermal performance can lead to lower energy bills – and greater energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the primary windows remain unaltered and aesthetically uncompromised, maintaining the original character.

Secondary glazing is also often the best choice for heritage and listed properties, as it tends to be fully accepted by Conservation Officers as a reversible adaptation. It retains the original period glass and can be removed with almost no impact on the original fabric of the building apart from minor repairs and redecoration.

2) Explore the challenges

Some older properties can be architecturally challenging when it comes to secondary glazing. Very few buildings were designed for secondary glazing and this is more apparent in historic properties where period features can’t be modified or removed. Traditional bay and bow windows may need bespoke solutions to make sure that units blend in.

Ornate designs can look beautiful but be restrictive. Architectural details such as hopper lights, timber panel shutters and cast-iron window latches and stays, can alter the product outcome from one secondary unit to another. Selectaglaze’s experienced team are always on hand to guide you with the process.

3) Choose your products

From frames and locks to glass treatments and thickness, the Selectaglaze technical team can help you specify appropriate products. Selectaglaze has the know-how and many years of experience working in listed and heritage buildings and designs products with historic preservation in mind. You can find out more here.

4) Do your research

Who you choose for your secondary glazing can really make a difference, especially when it comes to obtaining LBC. Take a look at Selectaglaze’s growing portfolio of heritage properties showcasing wide-ranging expertise. Selectaglaze works closely with Conservation Officers and heritage bodies to achieve the ultimate solution. 

5) The A-Z of LBC

If you work with heritage and historic buildings, you’ll know that it’s important to check if you need LBC as it is a legal obligation. LBC safeguards the building’s cultural preservation, but the challenge is making sure these buildings are fit for the future and support progress towards Net Zero 2050. If you’re working on a listed property and you’re planning on making any alterations that would affect a property of historic significance, it is a criminal offence to carry out these works without consent.

You’ll need to contact your local authority and, if the building is in a conservation area, speak to a Conservation Officer. You may discover that there’s no need for an application. Sometimes a quick chat and visit to the property is all that is necessary. At Selectaglaze, an in-house design team can supply detailed LBC drawings to support you on your journey. Before then, it’s certainly worth having a chat with the Selectaglaze technical team about your upcoming secondary glazing projects. 

Contact:

Selectaglaze,
Alban Park,
Hatfield Road,
St. Albans,
Hertfordshire,
AL4 0JJ

Phone: 01727 837271

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