- How The Origin Window take traditional window design into the 21st century
- Window design and colour options for homeowners
- Advice on replacing old windows - including whether you need planning permission
Owning a period style property can be immensely rewarding, but at times, can also present the homeowner with a variety of challenges. The biggest trials often come with making changes or alterations to the original features of your property. It can often take a lot of time and effort to turn your vision into a reality, but the overall result will undoubtedly be worth it.
To coincide with the launch of our new range of stunning twin flush aluminium windows, we take you through the steps needed to alter your period property to fit your vision. Aluminium windows are fast becoming a popular choice when it comes to building work for all property types for various reasons, and here are some of the reasons why.
Style
In terms of the aesthetics that the Origin Window offers, the new internally and externally flush casement offers a clean, simple and unique finish, meaning that it’s non-obtrusive and elegant style doesn’t look out of place in any property type – whether it be a traditional townhouse, modern new build or period property.
Origin have taken the design of a traditional 19th Century timber window and have modernised it into a highly resilient and practical solution which is perfect for the 21st Century.
The industry-first twin flush casement means that sash sits neatly inside the window frame, eliminating any overlapping frames which are often synonymous with aluminium windows.
Strength, security and design possibilities
Aluminium is unique in its properties in as much as that it is lightweight yet incredibly strong. This means that sightlines can be slim without compromising on any form of security. In particular, the advanced manufacturing technique that Origin use to achieve the Origin Window means that the edge of the frame can be as small as 50mm from the glass, which means that less window frame and more light can be achieved. On top of this, the maximum frame size can often be a lot bigger than those with other materials.
Additionally, the locking mechanisms that aluminium systems use are often considered as more secure than those in timber windows so are sometimes preferred by home insurance companies.
A new window can also breathe some fresh life into a home, and with Origin, you can find windows that add a new lease of life to the property, but that still keeps with the original theme. Whether you’re breathing new life into your home or completely reviving an old gem, you will find what you need to suit the purpose.
Colouring Opportunities
With the advancements of technology, Origin are able to manufacture their door and window systems in over 150 different RAL colours, so therefore, the original colour scheme of the property is not lost.
The powder coating process is extremely hard wearing and resistant to fading, even over long periods of time. Additionally, Origin offer the option of having a hugely realistic woodgrain effect in order to blend in with the house style and area.
Origin’s Aluminium Window Range are completely bespoke, so they allow you to choose the right style to suit your home. You can find a style that is in keeping with the traditional look of your property, which is essential if your planning permission states that you need to find the right colour scheme to keep an authentic finish. Neil Ginger, CEO of Origin, gave this advice on aluminium windows in period properties: “Colour is an important consideration for a period property. Any new doors or windows should match the original house. Our aluminium doors and windows have a durable powder coating which is available in a huge range of colour options to perfectly blend with the rest of the house, including realistic wood grain effects to complement the existing materials.”
Thermal Efficiency
Available as an optional upgrade, the Origin Window is able to be manufactured with the world’s best insulator – Aerogel.
Aerogel is a revolutionary technology which has even been used in NASA space shuttles because of its insulation properties.
When manufactured with Aerogel, the Origin Window can achieve a certified U-Value of 0.8W/m²K and A+21 Energy Rating, so its superior thermal efficiency can be seen as a huge upgrade, especially when compared against older, far less efficient windows.
Origin have complete exclusivity in Aerogel’s usage, so you can be assured that when choosing Origin, you will be getting something extra special.
Should I replace the old windows?
Previously, you could only replace timber with timber in building projects, but now, aluminium is starting to become more widely accepted due to its aesthetics and improved security. You needn’t sacrifice the authentic look of your home either, as the style and colour options on aluminium windows can keep with the theme. The Origin Window also offers the added benefits of being maintenance free and being built for long-term reliability, especially with its industry-leading 20 year guarantee.
Therefore, when it gets to the stage where you are considering upgrading the windows in your property, aluminium should be considered as a viable and practical option.
Do you need permission?
It depends. When renovating properties in a conservation area or in a listed property, you will need permission from your local council. You can find the forms to apply for planning permission on your local council website.
If your building is not listed or in a conservation area but is traditionally styled or you are in any doubt as to whether you need planning permission, speak to your local council from the offset who will be in a good position to advise.
For more information, browse our website for guidance on how to customise your doors and windows, and when you’re ready, visit one of our showrooms or request a brochure. Our strategically located trusted trade agents are only too happy to guide you through the process and help you make the right choice.
For more information on Origin's bespoke aluminium windows, contact your local installer today.