Windows are known as heritage windows if they are designed in a way that reflects more traditional crafting methods. Normally found in more established properties or even listed buildings, heritage windows might conjure up images of old wooden sashes. However, PVC-U and aluminium companies now offer outstanding heritage windows with all the performance benefits of modern home improvements.
Here are the top three reasons we think aluminium heritage windows come out on top:
1. High thermal efficiency to save money on fuel bills
Your preferred style of window shouldn’t come with a compromise to performance. Windows can be rated using the same rainbow label as fridges, washing machines, and even entire homes. The British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) is the official ratings body for windows and doors and current Building Regulations stipulate new home improvements should have a BFRC Window Energy Rating (WER) of ‘B’ or above.
Not many windows and doors that are in situ today meet this level of energy efficiency because they were installed before the legislation was tightened. Heritage properties in particular may have issues with efficiency if they still have older products in place. Slim aluminium windows from the right manufacturer can already achieve an A++ rating so whether you are replacing windows in a traditional or more modern property, you don’t have to compromise on thermal performance. This means you can save money on your fuel bills, wherever you live. Read more about Reynaers BFRC ratings here.
2. Colour and design options to suit any property
The strength of aluminium as a material means that window frames can be very slim, which is a design that works well in both traditional and modern homes. The slimmer designs offer a fantastic, elegant alternative to old steel windows, and the more sleek and sturdy designs are a great addition to any modern home.
Aluminium windows also offer a wide array of finishes to achieve the right texture for any given heritage style. They come in matt or gloss finishes, a range of textured metallic surfaces, or even with an authentic woodgrain effect.
The wide range of colours available in aluminium, also mean you can choose precisely the right shade to suite your new windows in with the rest of your home. As the outside of our homes become ever more important from a design perspective, we want the overall look including fascias, guttering, brick or stone colour, roof covering and the all-important windows and doors, to work as one. This can be particularly important in conservation areas where planning officers are keen that properties retain their character.
3. Long-lasting, high-quality material
Aluminium is a tremendously strong and durable material that can brave the elements and so once you have your heritage windows installed, you won’t need to replace them any time soon. Aluminium windows have high levels of wind, air and water resistance so won’t corrode over time.
Aluminium windows are also low maintenance. In fact, aluminium needs less attention than other metals, and certainly less maintenance than PVC-U or timber windows might. Even the coloured finishes are built to last and won’t need to be touched up or repainted. And with a lifespan of at least 30-40 years and the ability to be recycled endlessly, aluminium windows are a fantastic long-term sustainable choice for your home too.
Heritage windows without compromise
Heritage has become a popular style as an increasing number of us are drawn to a more traditional look. We’ve seen the move to a more nostalgic design for our homes in interior fashion, as well as external home improvements. Whether you own a traditional property or a modern home, aluminium windows offer great design, are long lasting, and don’t come with any compromise to thermal performance.
Reynaers Aluminium has 50 years of global product development and utilises 7 testing centres worldwide to ensure the aluminium designs we supply to our Reynaers at Home partners are of the highest quality. We have a range of products in our heritage collection to suit all kinds of properties and all come with a choice of more than 450 colours. Find out more by contacting one of our Reynaers at Home experts today.
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