Heritage and Listed Building Retrofit Checklist

The UK has the oldest building stock in Europe, with around 5.9million buildings (21%) built before 1919.

Many will have heritage and listed status, with all of the associated renovation restrictions and protections. As the UK looks to transition to Net Zero by 2050, effective glazing solutions have their part to play. That’s why we’ve put together this handy checklist to help with your next heritage or listed building retrofit project. Then, when you’re ready, talk to us about how we can tailor our services to your specific needs.

1. Know the benefits

Thoughtfully retrofitted secondary glazing can improve all window performance elements, so that it is warmer and quieter inside, whilst retaining the period appearance externally. Improved thermal performance can lead to lower energy bills – and greater energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the primary windows remain unaltered and aesthetically uncompromised, maintaining the original character. Secondary glazing is also often the best choice for heritage and listed properties, as it tends to be fully accepted by Conservation Officers as a reversible adaptation. It retains the original period glass and can be removed with almost no impact on the original fabric of the building apart from minor repairs and redecoration.

2. Explore the challenges

All good so far. But some older properties can be architecturally challenging when it comes to secondary glazing. Fortunately, we love a challenge. Very few buildings were designed for secondary glazing and this is more apparent in historic properties where period features can’t be modified or removed. Traditional bay and bow windows may need bespoke solutions to make sure that units blend in. Ornate designs can look beautiful but be restrictive. Architectural details such as hopper lights, timber panel shutters and cast-iron window latches and stays, can alter the product outcome from one secondary unit to another. Fortunately, our experienced team are always on hand to guide you with the process.

3. Choose your products

From frames and locks to glass treatments and thickness, Selectaglaze can help you specificy appropriate products. We have the know-how and many years of experience working in listed and heritage buildings. We design products with historic preservation in mind, making us well-known to heritage bodies who recommend us. You can find out more here.

4. Do your research

We certainly do, with every project we undertake and our growing portfolio of heritage properties showcases our wide-ranging expertise. Of course, other secondary glazing companies are out there, and we would recommend that you take a look at what they offer. However, we believe we have an enviable reputation and excellent relationship with heritage bodies and local authorities that recognise our sympathetic and detailed approach to architectural heritage. We like to work closely with Conservation Officers and heritage bodies to achieve the ultimate solution so who you choose for your secondary glazing can really make a difference – especially when it comes to obtaining Listed Building Consent (LBC).

5. The A-Z of LBC

If you work with heritage and historic buildings, you no doubt know that it’s important to check if you need LBC as it is a legal obligation. LBC safeguards the building’s cultural preservation, but our challenge is making sure these buildings are fit for the future and support progress towards Net Zero 2050. If you’re working on a listed property and you’re planning on making any alterations that would affect a property of historic significance, it is a criminal offence to carry out these works without consent. You’ll need to contact your local authority and, if the building is in a conservation area, speak to a Conservation Officer. You may discover that there's no need for an application. Sometimes a quick chat and visit to the property is all that’s needed – particularly if you choose Selectaglaze. We’ve fostered excellent relationships with Conservation Officers and often, since they know what’s involved, obtaining LBC may not be necessary. At Selectaglaze, our in-house design team can supply detailed LBC drawings to support you on your journey. We can even prepare your LBC application on your behalf as an extra paid service. Before then, it’s certainly worth having a chat with us about your upcoming secondary glazing projects. All our services are tailored to individual clients and are bespoke to each project. With decades of experience, a 100% in-house service and excellent working relationships with local authorities and heritage organisations, we can make sure your heritage or listed project ticks all the right boxes.