FAQs

Yes. Historic England Advice Note 18 (HEAN 18) confirms that slim-profile double-glazed units are acceptable on casements or frames that need replacing if they match the building’s original design and are installed into existing or new timber frames.

We will be able to advise you on the most suitable options to meet the needs of both your property and your budget. Windows and external door sets are fundamental to the overall look of any building. Whatever you choose, it is essential that the style is in keeping with the building and also takes into consideration the performance requirements (such as thermal efficiency and weather performance characteristics).

Here at Nathan McCarter Joinery, whatever you are looking for, from replacement windows to a one off piece furniture, we approach each job individually and work alongside our customers to create an end product that is uniquely tailored to you and your home.

We appreciate that many of our customers will be keen to maximise the security of their home, particularly when installing replacement windows and doors. We fit multi-point locks as standard with high-security cylinders.

You can choose any RAL colour to give your windows a completely bespoke, weather-proof finish, matching your own tastes or in keeping with planning advice or architectural specifications. Any colours can be mixed and all frames are spray finished in our on-site spray booth.

Start with low-risk areas first, such as the roof space and loft insulation, which is generally acceptable in historic properties. Always use breathable materials to prevent moisture from being trapped.

Timber is uniquely beautiful, natural product and offers exceptional variety. It is tough, solid and durable. A good quality wood product when given a little care and maintenance can last a lifetime. Wood is a material that is easy to use, maintain and repair. Whilst it ages, it develops a patina which is all part of its character. Timber is thermally efficient and acts as a natural humidity regulator: unlike UPVC window frames, Timber ‘breathes’ – absorbing humidity in damp conditions and releasing moisture in dry conditions.

Timber is environmentally friendly, having outstanding credentials in being an entirely natural and renewable product. At Nathan McCarter Joinery, we only use timber that is FSC certified and can be traced back to point of origin to ensure it is both environmentally and ethically sound and procured from sustainable forests.

All our wooden windows come fitted with your own choice of window hardware. Depending on your chosen window type, you can choose from easy-clean friction hinges, handles, and stays, as well as quality brand multi-point security locks and latches. With many options available, your hardware can match your interior decor as well as the exterior style of your home.

Yes. Whatever style of timber window you choose, we can hand fit glass to suit your needs. However, if your home is in a conservation area or Grade listed, there may be some restrictions on the use of double glazing. In these cases, we’re able to work with planning officers to find suitable glazing for you.

If you have a specific window design in place already, we’ll match your replacement windows as close as we possibly can. We design all our windows in-house to your own requirements and can include as little or as much detail as you require, including window furniture.

Slimline double glazing is designed to look very similar to traditional single glazing. With a profile of less than 10mm in thickness and exceptional thermal efficiency, it’s an ideal glazing choice for timber-framed windows in listed properties.

Timber frames with slim-profile glazing, quality seals, and proper maintenance create energy-efficient windows that reduce heat loss while maintaining your building’s historic character.

Vacuum glass has a better thermal U-value (~0.7 W/mk2), but can be more expensive. Slimline double glazing is more cost-effective but has a higher U-value (~1.6 W/mk2). The best option depends on your property’s listing grade, conservation guidance, and efficiency requirements.

People are sometimes surprised to find that we offer double glazed windows made from timber and that these windows often surpass the thermal efficiency of UPVC and plastic windows. We are proud to offer windows certified with an average ‘U’ value of up to 1.2W/m2k. We use high-quality Planitherm glass with a warm edge spacer bar in the majority of our windows.

We use Planitherm glass as standard on all our windows that require double glazing. Our standard units are 24mm thick which is made up of:

• Internal 4mm toughened glass with Planitherm Total+ coating for thermal insulation
• 16mm argon gas-filled cavity for heat retention
• External 4mm toughened glass for added security

Other options are available to suit your individual needs and requirements – ask us for more information.

Secondary glazing is an additional internal window frame installed on the inside of a single-glazed window to create a second layer of glazing. Installing secondary glazing creates a minimum air gap of 50mm between the new frame and the original window to improve thermal efficiency and reduce draughts inside without changing the window’s external appearance.

Read our secondary glazing article where we cover more details.

Approval depends on the specific building and local authority. In some cases, vacuum glazing is approved due to its ultra-thin profile. In others, conservation officers may prefer slimline double glazing or secondary glazing. Consulting with planning or conservation officers early on is essential.

We specialise in heritage and period joinery, we are very experienced with protected areas, homes of special interest and Grade I and II listed properties. We can offer expert advice and liaise with your local planning office if necessary, so whatever your requirements are, such as replacement windows, external doors or restorative works, we can guide you through the process and ensure all of the necessary planning criteria are met.