Frequently asked questions

We make available hardwood, softwood and engineered timbers. Most of the original Period windows and doors that are around today are over 100 years old and were made completely from softwoods i.e. European pine or Redwood. These timbers did not have the benefits of modern wood treatments, high specification paint applications or window design specifications (i.e. anti-capillary or sash and frame pressure grooves, internal beading etc.) yet they are still operational today.

We will advise you of the best and most cost effective timber to use that will suit the design, location and Period detail all with your personal criteria in mind.

 

Achieving longevity with low maintenance in timber windows, doors and conservatories is dependent on the follow:

• certificated, virtually knot free, straight grained timber from sustainable resources which ensures that only top grade joinery timber is used
• high design specifications e.g. anti-capillary and pressure grooves, sloping bottom sash rails to discourage rainwater build up which can lead to timber degeneration
• chemical preservation of the timbers where applicable , with water based preservatives to inhibit fungal and moisture attack
• surface preservation of the windows by sealing it in 4 coats of flexible micro porous paint that enables the timber to breathe and the joints to expand and contract without breaking the coating system
• good installation is critical; even the best products if poorly installed will fail  

The final result is windows that require a light rub down every 8-10 years with a new coat of micro porous paint. With all of the above in mind, the life expectancy of a window is 60 years plus.

 

We offer a complete service which also includes building work

As a bespoke joinery company we can mirror the original, Period timber window detail and install specially constructed acoustic Whisper glazing units that help to reduce sound transmission whilst still complying with current Building Regulations regarding Heat Energy Conservation.

We are able to repair, renovate or replicate decorative leads which can be customised and integrated into double glazed units ready to be installed in your replacement windows.

No job is too big or too small for us to undertake

On most occasions no although there may be some dust, we will sheet up before and during installation, cleaning up after the work is completed by removing all debris and old items.

We offer a unique winter installation service where all the glazing and painting, both internal and external is carried out away from the elements in controlled conditions at our joinery. Not only does this greatly improve the quality of the process that we undertake to produce our bespoke joinery, but it also makes for a less disruptive installation in your home.

This approach enables us to install right through the inclement winter months so that you can benefit from your new windows and doors when it matters most.

Although there are those who wish to be present it is not necessary as long as we have access our company liability insurance will cover your home and contents whilst we carry out the work.

Deposit indemnity covers and a 10 year insurance backed guarantee. After sales care involves a site visit after 1 and 5 years.

Opinion is divided, we will fit either, but it must be noted that treble glazing is approximately 40% more expensive than double glazing. Due to its extra weight and thickness it can, in some cases be unsuitable for traditional timber windows particularly sliding box sashes. It also requires thicker frames which can result in a loss of period detail and light intake, a double-glazed unit provides better light intake as it has two panes of glass instead of three.

It is possible to obtain 20mm thick double-glazing units that have the same thermal insulating and sound reduction properties as a 24mm treble glazed unit.