Listed Building Window Solutions
Specialist secondary glazing for Grade I, II, and II* listed buildings. Preserve your heritage windows while achieving modern thermal efficiency and comfort. Approved solutions for conservation areas with full planning guidance.
Listed Building Classifications
Understanding your building's listing grade helps determine the best approach for window improvements
Buildings of exceptional architectural or historic interest. Includes major churches, castles, and buildings of national importance.
- • Strictest conservation requirements
- • Detailed heritage assessment needed
- • Reversible solutions preferred
- • Specialist conservation officer consultation
Buildings of more than special interest. Important examples of architectural or historic significance.
- • High conservation standards required
- • Detailed planning applications
- • Heritage impact assessments
- • Specialist materials and methods
Buildings of special architectural or historic interest. Most residential listed buildings fall into this category.
- • More flexible approach possible
- • Secondary glazing often approved
- • Sympathetic improvements welcomed
- • Faster planning process
Why Secondary Glazing for Listed Buildings?
The preferred solution for heritage properties requiring modern performance
Completely reversible installation that preserves historic windows intact. No alterations to original frames, glazing bars, or hardware.
Often approved under permitted development rights. No external appearance changes make planning applications more straightforward.
Widely accepted by conservation officers as the best compromise between heritage preservation and modern performance requirements.
Minimal disruption to historic interiors. Installation typically completed in one day per room without structural alterations.
Preserves the authentic look and feel of period windows while delivering up to 60% improvement in thermal efficiency.
Can be completely removed without trace if required, making it ideal for temporary improvements or changing requirements.
Planning Permission Guide
Navigate the planning process with confidence
- • Internal secondary glazing installations
- • No external appearance changes
- • Reversible installations
- • Grade II listed buildings (most cases)
- • Conservation areas (internal work)
- • Grade I and II* listed buildings
- • External secondary glazing
- • Structural alterations required
- • Conservation area restrictions
- • Local authority specific requirements
Our Planning Support Service
We provide comprehensive planning support for all listed building projects, including:
- • Heritage impact assessments
- • Planning application preparation
- • Conservation officer liaison
- • Technical drawings and specifications
- • Listed building consent applications
- • Local authority correspondence
Heritage Project Case Studies
Successful secondary glazing installations in listed buildings
Challenge:
Original 18th-century sash windows causing severe heat loss and noise from busy street. Bath & North East Somerset Council required heritage-sensitive solution.
Solution:
Bespoke magnetic secondary glazing matching original glazing bar patterns. Slim 20mm frames to minimize visual impact.
Challenge:
Irreplaceable medieval leaded windows with extreme heat loss. English Heritage required completely reversible solution with no impact on historic fabric.
Solution:
Custom-designed lift-out secondary glazing with traditional joinery techniques. Hand-forged hardware to match period aesthetics.
Listed Building FAQ
Common questions about secondary glazing in heritage properties
Internal secondary glazing typically doesn't require listed building consent as it doesn't alter the historic fabric. However, we recommend checking with your local conservation officer, especially for Grade I and II* buildings.
No, our secondary glazing is completely non-invasive. We use magnetic or clip-in systems that don't require any fixings to the original window frames. The installation is fully reversible without any damage.
We create bespoke secondary glazing that precisely matches your original glazing bar patterns. Our craftsmen use traditional techniques and can replicate Georgian, Victorian, or any period-specific designs.
Secondary glazing typically doesn't affect building insurance as it's non-structural. We provide comprehensive warranties and can supply documentation for insurance purposes. Many insurers actually welcome improvements that reduce risk.
Preserve Your Heritage, Improve Your Comfort
Get expert advice on secondary glazing for your listed building. We provide full planning support and heritage-sensitive solutions.