Everything you need to know about replacing your windows in a conservation area

If you live in a conservation area, odds are that you live in an older home with a historic look and feel. 

But with older properties, the reality is that things will need repairing or replacing as they age. The same can be said for new-build homes, but historic properties often utilise older, outdated materials and technologies.

When it comes to your windows, you want the very best. This means security, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. But in a conservation area, replacing your Heritage windows comes with a few more steps than if you lived elsewhere.

As one of London’s leading window suppliers and installers, we’ve worked with homeowners and property developers in conservation areas around Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and beyond to fit new windows that align with local authority regulations. 

This positions us as your trusted authority on replacing the windows of your historical home or building.

What is a conservation area?

In the UK, a conservation area is created to preserve the natural and historic heritage of a particular location. These are typically rural areas that qualify as sites of outstanding natural beauty, but can also include buildings of special architectural or historical interest. 

The concept was first introduced in 1967, and by 2019, around 2.2% of England (roughly 1,100 square miles) fell under conservation area regulation. 

For homeowners and property developers, this means that any changes or repairs to a home in a conservation area come with an added level of scrutiny. 

This is due to Permitted Development Rights being withdrawn in conservation areas under an Article 4 direction – essentially, you need planning permission from the local authority when doing something like replacing your windows or changing their material (unless you plan to replace frames with an exact, like-for-like version).

Can you change your windows in a conservation area?

Despite these increased regulatory hoops you need to jump through, you can indeed change your windows in a conservation area.

In fact, our Ultimate sash uPVC windows and Heritage casement windows have been accepted in numerous conservation areas across the UK. This is thanks to their historic design and aesthetic appeal – even when using materials like uPVC, which has traditionally looked very different to the timber alternatives.

By upgrading to our Heritage range, you’ll benefit from the many advantages that newer window technology offers:

– Increased security with multi-point locking systems, reaching PAS24 or Secured by Design (SBD) status
– Higher energy efficiency ratings, keeping your property warm in winter and cooler in the summer months
– Improved customisation with several finishes and fittings to choose from
– Increased strength and soundproofing with optional laminated glass and triple-glazing varieties

What kind of windows can you use in a conservation area?

When looking to change your windows in a protected area, you may be surprised at just how many options you have. 

This is because windows like our Ultimate uPVC sash offer timber finishes and customisable fittings to replicate the historic appearance of existing frames. The sash design is also reminiscent of frames you’d find on historic homes, making it a suitable replacement.

Planning authorities prefer like-for-like replacements, so it’s much more common to receive approval when your new windows don’t deviate from the existing look and feel.

Can you have double-glazed windows in a conservation area?

Historic windows are typically single-glazed. However, it’s typically only listed buildings that are required to keep single-glazing; depending on the grade of your property, double-glazing is often given permission. 

Single-glazed windows can still be upgraded with secondary glazing, and our team will be able to discuss this with you to find the best solution for your unique circumstances. 

As long as you obtain planning permission from your local authority, your new windows could be aesthetically in-keeping and double-glazed to keep your home warm and your bills down. You could even invest in energy-efficient windows, to really amplify the benefits of your upgrade.