What do we mean by Heritage and why is aluminium so well suited to the design?

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Depending on the style of property you own, you might have come across the term ‘Heritage’ in your search for new windows and doors. It is often listed on a home improvement company’s website as an umbrella term for products that follow a more traditional design of a window. Flush sash windows, where the window is flush with the frame around it, and sliding sash windows are both good examples of Heritage style products, but the term also covers steel windows and doors that were primarily used in older properties for their slim frames and larger glazed aspect.

The Curtain Hotel, London | Photographer: Andy Stagg

Heritage-style windows and doors are increasingly being used in more modern property upgrades as well as continuing to be utilised in older properties where the owner either wants to or has to maintain a particular historical look. For those living in a conservation area, or in a property that is classified as Listed for example, there are additional rules that must be followed when updating windows and doors. But even those living in older buildings that don’t fall under these regulations often still want to maintain the more traditional styling of their home and ensure their new windows and doors don’t look out of place or detract from the property’s historical charm.

Heritage features and why they are better in aluminium

Replacing windows and doors in a heritage property is about balance. The aim is to protect the original character of the building, while also allowing its occupants to benefit from modern technologies.

slimline 38 windows in sunny home
Private House Veranda Koersel | Photographer: Debbie De Bauwer

Heritage windows and doors often feature a slimmer frame than more modern products. Aluminium lends itself to this feature perfectly because it is inherently a strong material and so can easily cope with thinner structures. There is no loss of structural integrity of the frame as there might be with other materials and in fact, aluminium’s strength means that it can be used in larger designs as well as smaller projects.

There is no compromise to the aesthetic of Heritage windows and doors in aluminium either. The material is perfect for those looking for a simple, sleek frame to replace a steel window or door. And with a myriad of colour options you can ensure the finished look perfectly suits the property as a whole.

More benefits that aluminium offers Heritage projects

As well as bringing strength and style to Heritage properties, aluminium is also a great choice for improving energy efficiency. It can easily hold double or triple-glazed sealed units in the frame, to help homeowners lower their fuel bills and benefit from a much more comfortable year-round temperature in their home. Our Heritage range also offers excellent acoustic performance to reduce the amount of outside noise making its way inside the property, and high levels of weather sealing to make sure the great British weather doesn’t encroach on the living environment.

Reynaers at Home Heritage in the spotlight – SL38 Slimline door

Following the success of our SL38 Slimline window that perfectly mimics a traditional steel window, we have now launched the SL38 Slimline door to complete the series. The steel-look door features a slim aluminium frame with large glass panels to achieve a distinctive grid pattern look at home in traditional, minimalistic as well as industrial style properties. The large area of glass maximises natural daylight and allows homes to benefit from a light, open space. The door is also available with a range of hardware to complete the finished look.

The SL38 Slimline door doesn’t just look the part, though. With U-Values as low as 1.0W/m2K, it also offers superb thermal efficiency, making it the complete package.

Where to find your aluminium heritage windows and doors

Heritage home improvements are increasingly popular, but to find the right solution for your property, it is important to choose a trusted installation company. Not only do you need someone who will know the products well, but you also need someone who will give valuable advice as to which products are suited to your property and the pros and cons of each.

We have a network of home improvement companies that install Reynaers at Home products and uphold our stringent code of conduct throughout the entire process. For additional peace of mind, contact your local Reynaers at Home partner for more information about our Heritage range, including the new SL38 Slimline door.  

Need professional advice on design, specification or installation?

We have a network of carefully selected local installers who will help guide you through your home transformation process.