The single-glazed original sash windows meant the property lost a lot of heat, at times it was drafty and condensation was contributing to damp areas on the internal walls. Replacing the windows along with French doors to the rear of the property became their priority.
When Jan and Steve decided it was time to replace their windows, they sought quotes from a few different companies to compare costs and options.
The couple knew of FA North because their friends close by had used them for a similar project. They had been very impressed with the quality of the work and the service they had received.
Jan arranged for Pete from FA North to come out and talk to them and quote for the work they needed. This was along with two other providers, one of which offered timber replacements, while the other provided composite wood-effect options.
Despite the options being within a similar price range, the couple chose us for several reasons. Firstly, they felt it was important to honour the original design of the Edwardian property by installing modern variations of the original timber sash windows. We were able to demonstrate the expertise to do this plus they felt composite materials wouldn’t preserve the traditional look they loved.
And secondly, they knew that the windows would be manufactured in our Carlton-based workshop. In the unlikely event that there were any problems, they could be easily and quickly rectified without holding the project up. Adding to these factors their friends’ positive experience, Jan and Steve were confident our expert team were the right fit for them.
As well as this we restored three of the beautiful original stained glass windows which were central features of the home.
The old rotting windows were taken out and the original glass was carefully removed, meticulously cleaned, and carefully reinstalled in a fresh, new casement. The vibrant colours of the glass now shine clearly, transforming the light in the room.
There are several non-standard window sizes throughout the house, which presents additional challenges. To the rear of the property the French doors, in particular, were not only huge but also structurally significant - something that is common for properties of the age and style.
Given the unique design and structural demands, the couple felt that working with a highly skilled team was essential. FA North, they felt, had the expertise to handle the complexity, especially as their friends had seen similar work done successfully.
The couple have had a great experience with our team. The work needed to be carried out at the right time and Pete was realistic with the time he quoted. Avoiding the winter period and holiday season, he estimated a time for installation and made sure to stick to it.
The work was carried out over three weeks. Headed up by Pierre, the team worked methodically and with great care completing one window at a time, ensuring minimal disruption. For the large French doors, a specialist joined the team to handle the structural complexity.
The couple were pleased with the attention to detail. Pierre’s craftsmanship, they noted, was superb but not only that, the team spent so much time in the house that the couple say it’s like they became part of the family.
The project Jan and Steve undertook was a big investment and something of this size can feel overwhelming. But it’s made a huge difference to their home. Restored to its former glory and respectful of the original Edwardian aesthetic, the results are incredible. More than this though, their new thermo-dynamic windows give their home a cosy feel and will last for decades to come!