Traditional Timber Windows & Doors for a Home in March, Cambridgeshire
Bespoke Traditional Timber Windows & Doors for a Period Home
Replacing old windows and doors can completely change the appearance of a period home. It also provides a durable, long-lasting solution. For this traditional timber window replacement in March, Cambridgeshire, we built and installed sixteen traditional casement windows. We also made a traditional timber front door and traditional timber back door, for this late-1940s home. The house had a mixture of original timber windows and later uPVC replacements. As a result, much of its original character had been lost. Our aim was to replace them with bespoke timber windows and doors that suited the age, proportions and style of the property.
The Brief
When the homeowners contacted us, the house had a mixture of ageing timber windows and later uPVC replacements. The original joinery had deteriorated beyond economical repair. Meanwhile, the uPVC windows looked out of place and did not reflect the character of the home.
The project included sixteen traditional casement windows, a traditional timber front door and a traditional timber back door. Rather than simply replacing each item like for like, the aim was to restore the original character of the house while providing a long-lasting solution for the future.
Our Approach
We began by measuring every opening before marking out each window and door by hand in our Cambridgeshire workshop. Next, we built every frame using traditional mortise and tenon joints. This tried-and-tested method provides excellent strength and durability.
The windows were crafted from quality softwood with hardwood sills, while both doors were built from sapele. Every piece was made specifically for the property to achieve an accurate fit and an authentic appearance. Finally, we installed the new joinery behind the original window reveals. Unlike the previous uPVC replacements, this recreated the look of the original windows and helped restore the home’s original character.
The Installation
Once we completed the joinery in our workshop, we installed every window and door on site. Most of the installation progressed as planned. However, the largest window presented a particular challenge. Due to its size and weight, we had to lift it into position from outside the property. Careful planning and teamwork allowed us to install it safely while maintaining the high standard of finish the clients expected.
Once complete, the windows were painted in white and black, while the sapele doors received a brown finish that complemented the style of the property.
The Finished Result
The finished project completely changed the appearance of the house. The mixture of deteriorated timber and later uPVC windows disappeared. Instead, the property now features bespoke replacement timber windows and handcrafted doors that better reflect its original design.
More importantly, the new joinery provides a durable, long-term solution that is built around the property rather than adapted to it. The project also restored much of the home’s original character while giving the owners traditional timber windows and doors they will enjoy for many years to come.
Thinking About Traditional Timber Windows or Doors?
Whether you are planning a traditional window replacement, replacing uPVC windows or restoring a period property, we would be happy to help. We build traditional timber windows and doors in our Cambridgeshire workshop using quality materials, traditional joinery methods and more than 45 years of experience. We will also help you decide whether repair or replacement offers the best long-term solution for your property.
This project demonstrates the type of bespoke work we carry out as part of our Traditional & Heritage Joinery service. If you’re unsure whether your own windows can be restored or need replacing, read our guide Should You Repair or Replace Timber Windows?.