By Annabel

IN Social Team

Choosing the right window styles for period homes

You've perfected the décor, you’ve poured over catalogues for your ideal kitchen, you’ve even scoured your local region for the bathroom tiles, you’ve ticked every box. But where do you start with windows?

With so many styles and colours to choose from and so many tradesmen out there, the task can sometimes seem a little daunting. Here at Independent Network we represent the best uPVC window and doors installation companies in the industry, so you can trust that we’ll give you the advice you need with top quality products and service.

When it comes to choosing new windows, retaining the original features and characteristics of period properties is exceptionally important. There are so many little details that together can create the most beautiful traditional window. However, you can sometimes get a little lost in the detail. From mullion to mechanical jointing, mock horns and everything in between, it can sometimes seem like tradesmen are speaking another language.

We’ve put together this handy little guide with window jargon explained and we’ve also listed our top selling windows for period properties. So, when it comes to choosing the perfect heritage style window for your period home, you’ll know your stuff!

Window styles – what are the options for my period home?

Vertical Slider (AKA sash window)

One of the earliest recorded installations of sliding sash windows was by Thomas Kinwood, a master joiner who crafted sash windows to suit the classical architecture of the Palace of Whitehall in 1669. Since then, sliding sash windows have become an inherent feature of British architecture. Our Vertical Sliders take influence from these very early designs and with a host of clever little details create the most technically advanced Vertical Slider on the market.  Whether you live in an Edwardian townhouse, a century old stone-built cottage, Victorian terrace (or even a modern property needing add a touch of class) with so many features these windows can be tailored to your home.

FlushSash

Reminiscent of early 19th Century timber windows, FlushSash windows mimic the look of traditional timber frames, offering classic, understated style. FlushSash is a uPVC alternative to the traditional casement window. It sits flush within the frame and offer traditional, understated elegance as opposed to chamfered and sculptured casement windows which are designed to add contour and detail to your windows.

Casement window

Casement windows date back to Tudor times, a popular choice thanks to the simple opening style. By the Victorian period, designs became more decorative with smaller panes. Our Casement windows are simple in design yet with a host of additional features can mirror traditional designs. With multiple opening options and styles, it’s our most versatile window yet. Whether you live in a cottage with small windows, a detached Victorian home with multiple mullions or an Edwardian semi-detached with large windows, there is a Casement window for every home.

Window jargon explained…

Georgian bars

Sculptured Georgian bars replicate the look of traditional windows where small pieces of glass were held together in order to create a larger window. There are so many options when it comes to Georgian bars, from the single vertical bar option on the FlushSash window to multiple Georgian bars on a top hung casement. Your Independent Network installer can tell you about all the options available.

Deep base rail

A beautiful feature of the Vertical Slider, an inherent design of traditional timber sliding sash windows.

Sash horns

A common feature on heritage windows, sash horns are a decorative addition which originated from the need to strengthen the windows. Our sash horns are purely aesthetic as windows from Independent Network are multi-chambered with steel reinforcements. Ask your Independent Network installer about the options available.

Mechanical joint/butt joint

Sympathetic to the style and age of your home, this type of joint provides the appearance of timber windows with the strength and security of uPVC. This style is available on both the FlushSash and Vertical Slider and is characterised by a joint at a 90-degree angle.

Mullions/transoms

A mullion is a vertical bar that divides the glass whereas a transom is horizontal. Lots of period homes have mullioned windows. You can also choose the FlushSash window with a ‘concealed’ mullion, Giving the appearance of two windows which opens out as one!

Monkeytail handles

The clue is in the name for this one. A lovely additional feature for FlushSash windows ideal for period cottages. Speak to your Independent Network installer for more handle options.

Woodgrains

We’ve carefully selected a range of woodgrains to suit any property. Each woodgrain has been designed to look just like traditional stained or painted timber and will require little or no maintenance other than an occasional wipe with a damp cloth. You can even choose to have a different colour for the inside to match your décor. Simply ask your Independent Network installer for a swatch book. Even better, check out our visualiser tool! 

By replacing traditional windows not only can you improve the security, soundproofing, maintenance, energy efficiency, thermal performance and appearance of your home. You’ll also add instant kerb appeal and with carefully chosen features to suit your period property, the value too! And if you happen to live in a conservation area, fear not, our trusted installers can give you advice on how to go about applying for planning permission.