Original Sash Windows(not allowed to replace them)Any advice??

Mr_Warren_2

Original sash windows should have plenty wood thickness to allow you to dismantle and have them rebated by a joiner that would then allow you to have double glazzed units installed as replacement of single pane glass....This is possible only if your sash frame has plenty wood to work with.

Keeno08

Instead of rebating the windows, you should be able to put in a stepped double glazing unit. These are designed to go into an opening where the existing pane of single glass is. This may be a better option if the council will let you alter them (which I can not see them refusing). Also I should point that you would be probably better going to a glazing company rather than you bog-standard double glazing company for this.

mollymunchkin

Email/speak to your Conservation Officer at the council. They should be able to give you plenty of advice on draught-proofing your windows. Ask them about grants too as there might be help available for owners of houses in Conservation Areas.

There is a company called Ventrolla which specialise in refurbishing windows. They have a perimeter sealing system which virtually eliminates draught and dust ingress. http://www.ventrolla.co.uk/theventrollaservice/perimetre-sealing-system--7 I haven't personally used them but have seen their work and it was a very high quality. I don't have any connection with them either.

planning_officer

The Council would be somewhat unreasonable to refuse an application for a direct replacement of the sash windows (but obviously, better insulated!). Unless it's a listed building?

WestonDave wrote: »

Frankly if all the others have done it, its a bit pointless imposing conservation conditions on the few remaining properties to say nothing of being unfair.

Airwolf1 wrote: »

Apply for planning, but make reference to the other comparables on the street?

However, with regard to the above quotes - whilst there's no harm in mentioning others nearby, that won't sway a decision in your favour alone. There is a recent appeal decision where a government Inspector noted that windows in a row of cottages had been replaced, yet he dismissed an appeal for another cottage to do exactly the same thing - his argument was that, if most of the properties had inapprpriate windows, it made it even more important for the few remaining ones to keep their original windows. So, don't rely solely on that argument!

mollymunchkin

Yes it could be a listed building or you could be in an Article 4 area where permitted development right have been removed ie. changing windows. But you are right Planning Officer, if most of the others have been changed already all the more important that the remaining ones are kept.