Why Bespoke Timber Windows Are So Popular in Gloucestershire

Why Bespoke Timber Windows Are So Popular in Gloucestershire

 

Why Bespoke Timber Windows Are So Popular in Gloucestershire

The county of Gloucestershire is a hot bed for Georgian, Victoria and Edwardian architecture. Period properties in these styles are a key part of the attraction to towns such as Gloucester, Cheltenham, Cirencester and Stroud, as well as the many Cotswold villages in the county. Given that traditional architecture is much appreciated in Gloucestershire, attracting many people to live in the area, it’s no surprise that bespoke timber windows are prevalent.

Timber Window Styles in Gloucestershire

Beginning in the Georgian period and growing in popularity throughout the Victorian and Edwardian years, timber sash windows were the favoured window style for homes and public buildings. As well as current architecture styles of the time, Tudor style properties saw a resurgence in the Victorian period, and with mock Tudor architecture came casement windows.

Even within the wider styles of sash and casement windows, there are many different types. For example, at different stages, sash windows were popular in different frame configurations; first in eight over eight and six over six, then two over two and one over one, or even multiple panes in the upper sash, with a single large pane in the bottom sash.

During the Victorian period, bay windows were popular in many homes, with sash windows projecting outward from the main walls of the building.

Casement windows were popular in architecture of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. In mock Tudor style buildings, they commonly feature lattice frameworks in diamonds or rectangles, with small panes of glass.

Victorian casement windows also often feature elaborate glazing bar designs and shaped tops, such as Gothic arches, whereas later casement windows were simpler, featuring larger panes of glass and timber glazing bars.

Protecting the Heritage of Period Buildings

If you are lucky enough to own a period property and would like to upgrade your windows to be more energy efficient, you must contact a business that can provide bespoke timber windows that are sympathetic with the heritage of the building.

At Rural Timber Window Company, our team of highly skilled craftspeople manufacture bespoke window solutions that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Our windows are energy efficient, aesthetically pleasing and sympathetic to the style of a period building. Based in Worcestershire, we offer our specialist joinery services to homeowners and business owners across Gloucestershire and the Midlands.

We are committed to protecting the heritage of period buildings, whilst also making a strong commitment to the environment, using only renewable and sustainably sourced timbers.

To learn more, please call us on 01905 841199 and we will be glad to help.

 

 

Trends for Timber Windows and Doors to Look Out for in 2020

Trends for Timber Windows and Doors to Look Out for in 2020

 

Hand-crafted timber window frames and doors from Rural Timber Window in Worcester

Trends come and go, but we believe some of the timber window and door trends we expect to see in 2020 will be here to stay for some time as consumers look to replace uPVC windows and doors with more sustainable, higher quality alternatives, and bridge the gap between traditional and modern designs.

Sustainable and environmentally friendly

Over the last few years, homeowners have grown to be increasingly concerned with finding sustainable and environmentally friendly materials when it comes to renovating their home. As a result, we can expect bespoke timber windows and doors to continue to grow in popularity in 2020.

Hand-crafted from timber sourced from sustainable forests, timber windows and doors are manufactured in environmentally friendly ways and have a much small carbon footprint than other materials commonly used for windows and doors.

Combining traditional craftmanship with modern technology, doors and windows manufactured from sustainable woods help to improve insulation, decreasing energy consumption, saving on energy bills, and therefore, having a small environmental impact.

To ensure the eco-friendliest finish for bespoke timber doors and window frames, they can be treated with water-based stains, varnishes, and micro porous paints.

Coloured timber window frames from Rural Timber Window in WorcesterColoured Windows

It’s not only interior décor where homeowners can experiment with colour. Whilst the most popular colour for window frames continues to be white, we expect to see the trend for coloured windows and doors to continue this year. Woods such as Oak, Sapele and Accoya look beautiful in their perfect state, but we expect to see more homeowners choosing timber windows and doors in greens, greys, black and even some more outlandish colours.
An increasing number of homeowners are choosing to invest in matching windows and doors. Black was an especially popular choice in 2019, and we suspect that Black will continue to be the new Black.
Traditional styles
With a growing trend in homeowners choosing traditional wooden craftmanship over modern uPVC, we can expect the popularity of traditional, yet timeless casement windows, sash windows and French doors to increase.

Despite having been popular for centuries, styles such as sash windows fit just as well in modern architecture as they do period properties.

Minimal sightlines

In contrast to the trend of traditional window and door styles we can expect to see in 2020, we also expect to see an increase in more modern style windows, with larger glass panes, and fewer sightlines. Large windows help to create the impression of larger rooms and allow for much more natural light to enter. With more glass surface and fewer sightlines blocking visibility, the effect is multiplied.

Conservatories and orangeries

With an increased focus on natural light, glass conservatories and orangeries are growing in popularity in 2020. By creating a living space with walls that are predominantly glass, with wooden frames, homeowners can increase their living space, whilst also gaining more benefit from enjoying their garden all year round.

If you are renovating your home in 2020, whether you live in a period property, or a modern build, Rural Timber Window Company can deliver the perfect solution. Call now on 01905 841 199 to talk about the project you have in mind.

Decorating Your Timber Windows and Doors Ready for Christmas

Decorating Your Timber Windows and Doors Ready for Christmas

 

When you think of the sort of house you are likely to see on a Christmas card, you may have noticed that snow spattered timber windows and festive wreaths hanging on wooden doors are a mainstay. To help create that classic Christmassy atmosphere in your own home, you can follow our tips for decorating your timber windows and doors.

Festive timber windows

We believe that windows are an overlooked area of the home to decorate at Christmas time, which is a real shame when a few little touches could really make your timber sash or casement windows stand out.

Sash windows

As we have talked about many times in past blogs, sash windows are extremely common in period properties, and increasingly popular in modern homes, as the simplicity of the design works for any style of house.

With sash windows, your key consideration will be to decorate the sills or the top inside of the window, so as not to prevent opening. A fir-tree effect garland is a great way to dress your sash windows – you may even wish to add some baubles.

If you are lucky enough for your sash windows to be in a bay formation, you can stand your Christmas tree in view of the window to create a magical effect inside and out.

If you aren’t blessed with bay windows, hanging a green wreath in your window can also have a similar effect.

Casement windows

Casement windows are certainly well designed for Christmas decorations as they often have deep set windowsills and open outwards. You may decide to hang festive ribbons along your windows, or decorate your sills with faux garlands, fresh holly and mistletoe, or even a decorative Christmas town or nativity scene, if you are feeling extra creative.

LED candles are a great way to light up your timber casement windowsills for Christmas.

Timber doors

Simply put, it wouldn’t be Christmas without dressing your timber door with a classic wreath, especially if it is paired with a festive themed door mat. For the interior of your home, a Christmas themed draught excluder provides a nice touch. Not only does it look the part, it helps to prevent any cold draughts, leaving your home feeling warm and Christmassy.

Garlands can look just as good on doors as windows. Why not hang a festive floral garland over your door frames?

Invest in bespoke timber windows or doors ready for next Christmas!

If you would like to replace your existing windows with high quality, bespoke timber solutions, you can read more on our website, or call us on 01905 841199 to arrange a quote. We use only timber from sustainable forests, manufactured and fitted by hand by experienced craftsmen.

Sash Windows for Listed Buildings in Cheltenham

Sash Windows for Listed Buildings in Cheltenham

 

Sash Windows for Listed Buildings in Cheltenham from Rural Timber Window

The county of Gloucestershire is home to one of the largest concentrations of listed buildings in the UK. In Cheltenham alone, there are over 2,602 listed buildings, many of which were built during the Regency period. At this time, sash windows were a key feature of architecture, and as such, many listed buildings in Cheltenham feature them. As such, if sash windows in listed buildings need to be replaced or repaired, this should be done so in a way that is sympathetic to the style of the building, with consent from the council.

Before making any proposed changes to a listed building, property owners must make an application to the relevant council, so that the potential impacts of the works on the building can be fully assessed. For example, wooden sash windows should be replaced with bespoke wooden sash windows to fit with the aesthetics of the building. Fitting other window styles, using different materials, destroys the heritage of a listed building.

In the Gloucestershire town of Stow-on-the-Wold, a property developer was recently fined over £25,000 for carrying out unauthorised work on a Grade II listed building. Work including the destruction and replacement of sash windows, along with other internal work was carried out on the building that houses the St Edwards Café, without consent from the Cotswold District Council.

Following this case, Cheltenham Borough Council are cracking down on property owners who have illegally fitted windows to conservation listed properties, fining them and forcing them to change the windows to a style that are sympathetic to the heritage of the building.

Bespoke Traditional Sash Windows

At Rural Timber Window Company, we specialise in hand crafting traditional sash window frames for heritage properties. We work hard to provide a uniformity of style that complements Georgian and Victorian architecture, providing a sustainable and long-lasting solution that passes council assessments for proposed changes to listed buildings.

Having manufactured bespoke windows and doors as a family business since 1973, we have gained a lot of experience in installing traditional window styles for listed buildings. We work with property owners to preserve and protect heritage buildings without taking away their magic.

We are committed to using only sustainable materials for our sash windows. Timbers such as Oak, Sapele and Accoya provide highly durable solutions and are naturally resistant to wood rot, ensuring that replacement windows will last for many years to come.

Based in Worcestershire, we are well placed to design, craft and install bespoke sash windows for customers in Cheltenham and the wider Gloucestershire area.

To enquire about sash windows for your property, whether you are looking for traditional or modern designs, you can contact us by calling 01905 841199 or by emailing info@ruraltimberwindow.co.uk.

Top tips for renovating period houses

Top tips for renovating period houses

renovating period house with timber windows from Rural Timber Window in Worcester

Restoring period houses is becoming increasingly popular in the UK, as they are now highly sought after on the property market and attract a large premium as a result.

Blending new and old features together is certainly in fashion at the moment, so it’s no surprise that a lot of people are buying period homes solely to renovate them. However, restoring an old property is not an easy task, especially when you are trying to get the best out of your investment.
With that in mind, it is important to approach period house renovations with a high level of care and caution to ensure that the property’s character is not lost.

Here are a few tips to help you preserve the authenticity of your period house, whilst enhancing its value.

Use Specialist Tradesmen
Acquiring the services of skilled, experienced tradesmen is essential when restoring a period property, as they have a greater understanding of how delicate the structure is.
Before restoring your period house, you might find that it has been subject to many revamps over time or hasn’t been maintained properly. This can raise several complex and unexpected issues, which must be dealt with by trained professionals.
At The Rural Timber Window Company, we are highly experienced in carrying out flawless period house renovations. One of our previous projects involved restoring the windows of a Georgian townhouse in St. Johns, Worcester.

Use Suitable Materials
Another reason for using specialist tradesmen is that they can suggest the best materials to use for the restoration.

Before you make any changes, you must consider what materials you want to use to ensure that your renovations align with the property’s heritage.
For example, when restoring a property’s sash windows, choose a material like timber rather than uPVC, as this will match the rest of the house’s features much better.

Preserve Original Features
Without its authentic features, a period home is just like any other house on the property market. Attention to detail is key when renovating a heritage property, as every single detail defines the character of the house.

During the planning process, dedicate some of your time to researching period houses and their traditional features. Picture rails, historic flooring and sash windows are all features that you should expect to see in a period property.

Our team of skilled craftsmen can make your restoration process run a lot more smoothly by delivering quality pieces, such as sash windows, that complement the character of your home.

If you are renovating a period house or have any questions about doing so, please get in touch.

For more information on bespoke timber doors, windows and conservatories in Worcestershire and surrounding areas, contact the Rural Timber Window Company today on 01905 841 199. Our highly skilled team are committed to combining the best of modern technology with traditional craftmanship to create the best bespoke solutions for you.

 

 

How Bespoke Timber Doors and Windows Add Value to Your Home

How Bespoke Timber Doors and Windows Add Value to Your Home

There is no doubting that the modern housing market can be highly competitive, so it’s important to do what you can to add value to your home and make it stand out from other properties.

When it comes to making first impressions, appearances count, so it’s important to ensure that your home has the eye-catching elements that will attract buyers. Windows and doors help to make the outside of your house welcoming, so investing in high quality, bespoke timber windows and doors is a great way to add value and attract attention.

Wooden Windows Worcestershire from Rural Timber Window

Whether you are looking to sell or rent your home, renovate it for yourself or are thinking of selling in the future, bespoke timber touches can be an investment to add great value. Here’s why.

High quality finish

When it comes to aesthetics, it’s difficult to meet the appeal of real wooden windows or doors. Whilst there are wood effect options available, nothing compares to the real thing. Real timber stands out from the kerb, whether left natural, or finished with a micro porous paint, inviting potential buyers to come in for a closer look.

Whether your home is a period property, or a modern build, bespoke wooden windows or doors can add character to your home. For simple, modern designs, wood adds more personality, whereas for older properties, wood provides the best suited, most sympathetic match for a period home. Wood is timeless and goes far beyond the latest exterior décor trends, making the decision to choose timber for your front door and windows an excellent choice. A house that is well finished will always be sold for a premium.

Flush casement windows in Hampton in Arden Rural Timber Window

Highly durable

Timber that is carefully selected and treated by the experts will last for years and years. Wooden doors and window frames are carefully treated with water-based stains or paints to protect the integrity of the wood and prevent warping in different weather conditions. By investing in quality wood, you can be sure that it will be highly durable. With the right care, timber should last for decades.

Quality and durability help add value to your home – elements that will not need replacing for some time are an attractive prospect to many buyers.

Environmentally friendly

Timber based windows and doors are biodegradable and the most environmentally friendly option on the market when it comes to materials. At Rural Timber, our wood is carefully sourced from sustainable forests.

In 2019, more and more buyers are concerned with choosing environmentally friendly options, so they may pay more for a home with timber entrances and windows.

Excellent insulation

Energy efficiency is high on the agenda of home buyers, and high-quality bespoke joinery can achieve excellent insulation, helping to keep heat in in the winter, and vice versa in the summertime.

For more information on bespoke timber doors, windows and conservatories in Worcestershire and surrounding areas, contact the Rural Timber Window Company today on 01905 841 199. Our highly skilled team are committed to combining the best of modern technology with traditional craftmanship to create the best bespoke solutions for you.

 

 

What Are Bespoke Timber Bay Windows, And Why Are They So Good?

If you are searching for a company to install timber windows, doors, conservatories or any other bespoke joinery solutions for your home or business premises in the Midlands region, Rural Timber Window Company are dedicated to providing special results that will help your building stand out.

Read more

5 Reasons to Choose Rural Timber Window Company

If you are searching for a company to install timber windows, doors, conservatories or any other bespoke joinery solutions for your home or business premises in the Midlands region, Rural Timber Window Company are dedicated to providing special results that will help your building stand out.

Read more

The key benefits of wooden bi-folding doors

The key benefits of wooden bi-folding doors

A popular alternative to French doors or sliding door systems, Wooden Bi-Folding Doors are designed to offer key aesthetic and functional advantages to homeowners.

Functioning with a unique ‘concertina’ effect, bi-folding doors are created using multiple frames that work by folding together and compacting when opened. Fitted with supporting runners, this allows them to slide and fold seamlessly, saving space and offering a far wider door opening than possible with conventional systems.

Here we explain more about the key benefits of Wooden Bi-Folding Doors and how they can improve the look and feel of your home.

wooden-windows-worcestershire-9

Outside access

For homeowners who really want to connect their home with a garden, patio or swimming pool, Bi-Folding Doors offer the perfect solution. Because they allow an unrestricted walkway between the home and outside areas, these systems help to create a seamless connection between the two.

Natural light

Whether they are opened or closed, Wooden Bi-Folding Doors allow a huge amount of natural light to enter a property. This helps to offer a light and ambient mood in the home and also generates plenty of warmth all year around.

Flexibility

Because Bi-Folding Doors open up an unrestricted connection between the interior and exterior of your home, this allows greater flexibility in how you use this space. So whether you choose to create an extended lounge area or poolside dining environment, the options are endless!

Tailored design

Wooden Bi-Folding Door systems can be created to meet the exact specifications of any property. This means they can be designed and manufactured to meet the dimensions, style and colouring required by every client, offering a perfect bespoke solution.

Low Maintenance

Bi-Folding Doors require a minimal amount of maintenance, with modern and durable materials used that are weather and water proof. So other than cleaning the glass panes and the occasional bit of TLC, your new door system will be quick and easy to look after.

wooden-windows-worcestershire-13

Find out more

If you would like to find out more about the benefits of using Wooden Bi-Folding Doors in your property and how the experienced craftspeople at the Rural Timber Window Company can help to meet your needs, please contact our friendly team today on 01905 841199.

 

How Sustainable Timber Sash Windows Benefit Us

How Sustainable Timber Sash Windows Benefit Us

An extremely popular element of Georgian and Victorian architecture, sash windows continue to provide an elegant solution to this day, only modern technology has allowed for them to evolve to deal with modern life.

Equally suitable for period properties or new builds inspired by traditional designs, sash windows offer a design that can brighten up a home. Whilst windows are commonly fabricated and installed using cheaper modern materials such as uPVC, we strongly believe in the importance and benefits of sustainable timber sash windows.

Let’s talk about some of the reasons why we believe so strongly in the power of wood.

Sustainable timber is greener

Climate change is a very real concern and as a result, it’s important for us to do what we can to reduce carbon emissions and minimise waste of valuable resources. The manufacturing process used to make uPVC windows creates a very high level of carbon emissions, whereas the processes used to handcraft timber windows produce much lower emissions.

At Rural Timber Window Company, we ensure that our wood is sourced from sustainable sources. We regularly use woods that are naturally resistant to rot, including Accoya, Sapele and Oak. These sustainable timbers allow us to produce windows that will have a much longer life span than uPVC windows.

By mixing traditional sash style windows with modern glazing, timber windows also help to reduce energy bills, particularly at winter time.

Increase security in our home

Sash windows are manufactured using hardwearing timbers, combined with double glazing to help increase home security. Oak is a particularly sturdy wood, which combined with modern locks, makes breaking in a difficult process for would-be burglars.

Reduce condensation

In the past, a key problem for sash windows and other timber windows was condensation. Not only can it cause mould that can cause rot, but it can also damage your health. Modern timber sash windows and glazing do not have this problem.

Improve curb appeal and house value

Replacing standard white PVCu windows with hand crafted, bespoke timber sash windows can have an amazing effect on the exterior of your home. Should you be aiming to sell your home, sustainable timber sash windows can certainly be a huge benefit. As well as being stylish and aesthetically pleasing, the energy efficiency of bespoke sash windows can also help to increase house value.

At Rural Timber Window Company, we speak from over 30 years of experience in manufacturing bespoke windows, doors and conservatories. To learn more about our sustainable sourced wood, or to arrange for a quotation for your property, please call us on 01905 841199.