For a private client
Historic window restoration – medieval manor house
Location: Hertfordshire
Completion: June 2025
Scope: Repair and reinstatement of original timber windows and replacement of non-historic units
Overview
As part of a wider programme of conservation-led works to a medieval Manor House, this project focused on the repair and reinstatement of its historic timber-framed windows. The property, a Grade II* listed building, contained a mix of original and later replacement windows in varying states of decay. Our task was to sensitively restore what remained of the original fenestration, and to replace inappropriate modern interventions with traditionally detailed timber windows in keeping with the building’s historic character.
Assessment of Condition
Across the façade, windows were found in differing conditions, many suffering from long-term water ingress, historic over-painting, and general timber decay. In some cases, rot had affected the functionality of sash mechanisms, while others displayed significant loss of material to sills, casements, and frame corners.
In addition, several windows had been replaced in recent years with unsympathetic PVC units, visually jarring with the surrounding architecture and contributing nothing to the building’s significance or performance.
Repair of Original Windows
Working closely with the conservation officer and joinery specialists, all original timber frames and sash components that could be retained were carefully assessed and documented. Where areas were too deteriorated to conserve, they were spliced and repaired using new pieces of sustainably sourced Sapele hardwood.
Sapele is a dense, close-grained timber widely used in heritage building repairs due to its superior longevity, high resistance to rot, and excellent paint retention. Qualities that make it an ideal match for older, slow-grown timbers traditionally used in period joinery. Each repair piece was handcrafted to suit the specific geometry of the individual window and sanded back to blend seamlessly into the original frame. New sills were made to measure to match surviving originals, ensuring consistency across the elevation.
Following joinery completion, all repaired and replaced elements were primed and finished using Grade II*-suitable natural paints, chosen for their breathability and long-term compatibility with traditional substrates.
Removal of Modern Windows & Reinstatement
Several inappropriate uPVC windows, installed in the late 20th century, were carefully removed to avoid disturbing the historic brickwork and reveals. These were replaced with new, bespoke Sapele timber casements and sashes, faithfully modelled on surviving original designs elsewhere on the property. Detailing and mouldings were all matched to reinstate a coherent and heritage-appropriate fenestration scheme.
Outcome
The result is a fully reinstated and sympathetically repaired window scheme that once again complements the architecture and setting of this important medieval house. By prioritising the retention of original fabric and using high-quality, durable materials such as Sapele, the windows have been restored to full function while ensuring resilience against future decay.
The project demonstrates how careful assessment, skilled craftsmanship and appropriate material choices can extend the life of historic joinery and return a building’s façade to its rightful architectural character.
