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This project involved the retrofitting of vacuum double glazing into the original sash windows of a charming Edwardian-style property located in Barnet, North London. Our team reglazed both the front windows and the windows at the rear of the property.
This classic home, characteristic of early 19th-century architecture, features distinctive timber-framed sash windows that are integral to its period charm.
The goal of the retrofit was to enhance energy efficiency while preserving the historic appearance of the property, with careful attention given to matching the original window design.
The windows in this home exhibit a typical Edwardian design, characterized by large upper sashes segmented with decorative glazing bars (often referred to as astragal bars). These windows maintain the aesthetic of the home, with their arched upper sections adding a distinctive feature to the façade. Edwardian architecture, noted for its emphasis on natural light and a more restrained aesthetic compared to the Victorian era, frequently incorporated large bay windows and intricate window detailing—both of which are apparent here.
The key challenge in this retrofit was maintaining the period aesthetic while upgrading the glazing to meet modern energy standards. The existing wooden sashes were in good condition but were originally fitted with single glazing, which no longer met contemporary insulation requirements.
The project aimed to upgrade the original single-glazed timber sash windows by fitting them with vacuum double glazing. This advanced glazing solution was chosen for its ultra-thin profile, which allows it to be installed in traditional window frames without compromising the historic look of the property. The vacuum insulated glazing enhances thermal insulation and soundproofing, crucial for modern comfort, while maintaining the slim appearance of single-glazed panes.
The images document the careful process of removing the original single glazing and reglazing the wooden sashes with vacuum glazing, which is specifically designed for heritage properties.
The glazing was seamlessly integrated into the existing timber frames, which were carefully refurbished and preserved. This approach not only enhances the energy efficiency of the windows but also avoids the need for entirely new window units, saving both cost and resources.
Retrofitting with vacuum double glazing dramatically improves the thermal performance of the windows, reducing heat loss through the glass. In fact, vacuum-insulated glass can achieve U-values as low as 0.4-0.7 W/m²K, compared to the U-value of around 5.0 W/m²K for traditional single glazing.
This significant improvement contributes to a more energy-efficient home, with lower heating bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
In addition to the double glazing, draught-proofing measures were implemented around the window frames.
Draught-proofing is a crucial element of any sash window refurbishment, as it prevents unwanted cold air from entering the property while reducing noise from outside. These measures further enhance the comfort of the home and protect it from the elements without altering the external appearance.
The final result is a successful combination of heritage preservation and modern efficiency. The sash windows have retained their original character, preserving the aesthetic integrity of the home while now offering modern benefits such as superior thermal insulation and soundproofing. The vacuum glazing is nearly indistinguishable from the original single glazing, ensuring that the architectural charm of this Edwardian home is maintained for years to come.
The project serves as a model for how period properties can be sympathetically upgraded to meet 21st-century standards without sacrificing their historic appeal.
