Over the winter and with the increasing cost of energy, we have noticed an increase in applications across both England and Wales to replace windows with double glazed units. Unfortunately, this is often with faux timber or uPVC window units. Historic windows and their glazing make an important contribution to the overall significance of a heritage asset and reflect the designs, skilled craftsmanship and high-quality materials used in the past, and any replacement therefore needs to be carefully considered. We understand the desire to improve energy efficiency and recommend owners look at the efficiency of the building as a whole, including ceiling insulation, energy use from devices around the house, and the effectiveness of existing heating systems, as there are often much easier and cost-effective changes that can be made that are more appropriate for historic buildings.
For more information, please visit Historic England’s advice on retrofitting listed buildings, and Cadw’s guidance on ‘Renewable energy and your historic building’.
