Suffolk isn’t short of beautiful period properties and this one is no exception. Peaking through the original wrought iron gate to this elegant Victorian listed property, it’s hard to imagine the windows are anything but original.
Conservation area and planning constraints
Due to planning constraints, it can be challenging to replace windows in listed properties with double-glazed ones. However, these sliding sash windows, supplied and installed by Excell Timber Windows, are specially designed for period homes.
Made in the UK by George Barnsdale, they come with slim double-glazed units, slim frames, glazing bars and period hardware.
Finished in white micro porous paint, they won’t need repainting for at least ten years.
“Excell really live up to their name – they kept us informed throughout, were fastidious when it came to measuring and surveying and they did a great job of finishing around the windows.”
Jenny, homeowner
Excell specialises in supplying timber windows for listed properties and has helped numerous home owners secure permission to replace their windows with modern, energy efficient ones. It was this service that most impressed the owner of this property.
“Martin at Excell was very familiar with the planning process and handled it all on our behalf. This is one of the main reasons we chose to go with them.”
Jenny, homeowner
Smooth process
The process began with an initial discussion in February of this year and the new windows were installed by July. In order to keep them as close to the original windows as possible, Excell recommended traditional box sash windows with cords and pulleys. They operate smoothly and are manufactured from FSC certified engineered timber which means they will not twist or warp and will last 60 years or more with minimal maintenance.
Asked about the difference the new windows have made, Jenny said: “The old windows were draughty, leaked and were in a very bad state of repair. We had employed someone to repair them over the years, but in the end he said they really were beyond saving.”
Commenting on the installation process, Jenny says she was delighted with the team who were “efficient, friendly, and very professional.”
Recommendation
Jenny found out about Excell Timber Windows from her neighbour who recently had the company install windows in their own period property. This helped to reassure her that she was making the right decision. Asked if she would recommend Excell herself, Jenny said:
“I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. Because the windows are such a big feature of the house, we really wanted to get it right and we are delighted with the result.”
