You will already know that the windows of your home are a vital component of your entire property, and they can add character and charm to your structure. Your windows work with your roofing and cladding to form a coherent, appealing whole, and it contributes to the overall ‘picture’ of your building and can even set your property’s tone. But if you are in the midst of a home remodelling, you may now be faced with deciding whether or not you should replace your old windows or restore them instead. It’s not an easy decision because both options come with various factors and considerations. Also, there may be requirements set by your local council – so you should do your research on this as well. So should you restore or replace old steel windows? Here’s what you should know so you can make an optimum choice.
What you should remember: the basics
In most cases, replacing and repairing windows with similar ones can be seen as PD or permitted development. With this, you don’t often have to request planning permission or consent. It’s also worth remembering that certain councils can be less strict, but you should confirm this to be sure. They may require you to stick with the original design, for example, and they may also require a specific match to the original method and materials before they give their go-ahead. If you have bay windows, they may be classified as an extension, so that you may need permission for this.
Also, repairs won’t usually be an issue for a listed building, although replacement will be more controlled, and you may need consent. If you want to insert double glazing or alter the windows’ style for a listed building, this may also require approval.
The option of repair
If you are involved in a major renovation project, and the windows of your property already look dilapidated or tired, it’s easy to consider switching them for new ones. But remember that you can also opt for repair, as even units with a lot of damage can be given a new lease on life by a specialist. Often, it’s more sensible and economical to refurbish the windows you already have, which is especially true for period properties. On the other hand, preserving your property’s original windows may work better to enhance its existing character and even add to its value.
You can even refurbish windows that look like they are rotting, and it’s easy to refurbish lower rails and cills, which often have weaker points. The entire process is based on whatever issues there are and how strong the frame still is. Then, if called for, the specialist, such as Crittall Windows UK, experts in Crittall window repairs, can remove the whole window, repair it, and then reinstall it.
The option of replacement
If it isn’t economically feasible to repair old windows or if the property’s original windows were replaced with cheap versions during its lifetime, then it may be worth considering a replacement.
With replacement, it’s always better to replace like-for-like, which means the replacement windows should be the same in design, material, and installation as the new ones. But you should also ask for consent if you plan to use a different design or material.
Image attributed to Pixabay.com
