Heritage Doors and Windows by Evolution Windows

Styles of Heritage Windows and Doors

There's no single "heritage" style. British homes have evolved through several eras, each with distinct architectural detailing. For example, Georgian homes typically have sash windows with multiple panes using narrow glazing bars. Victorian homes also use sash windows, but flush casements can also be seen. Post war homes were largely fitted with timber windows, and these are the most common fitted with flush casements or lipped stormproof windows.

Arts and Crafts houses are a distinctive part of British architectural heritage, known for their handcrafted detailing, natural materials, and emphasis on traditional craftsmanship. With features such as exposed timber beams, stone or brick exteriors, built-in joinery, and asymmetrical layouts, they offer charm, individuality, and a lasting sense of character.

Heritage Doors for Today's Homes

Doors are just as important as the windows and here too, you can get the look you want with all the benefits of secure, insulated and reliable doors.

• Period-style front doors, with raised panels, mouldings, and traditional glazing.
• Cottage doors, often vertically planked or flush with simple detailing.
• Single and French Doors, timber-style doors with slim framing, commonly used in period-style garden rooms, orangeries, and extensions, or on their own as front, side or patio doors.

At Evolution Windows, all of these styles are authentically reproduced using high-quality timber-alternative materials designed for long-term performance and period-correct appearance.

Top Benefits of Installing Heritage Doors and Windows

When the correct style is chosen your home can feel consistent in look and feel both inside and out. If you're fortunate to have period fireplaces, coving, beams, original floors etc, the windows and doors can tie in beautifully with these internal features. But there is much more to installing this style than just looks.

Today's heritage windows and doors use latest generation materials, for the best possible insulation. Energy efficient frames, high-performance glass and clever engineering provide low U-Values, double or triple glazing and help lower your energy bills. They also come tested for air, wind and water as well as security tested of course.

Performance and Safety Benefits

• Energy-efficient frames and glazing reduce heat loss and help lower heating bills.
• Tested for air, wind, and water to ensure lasting performance in all weather.
• Enhanced security options, including laminated glass and multi-point locks.
• Fire-escape hinges on first-floor windows improve safety in emergencies.
• Easy-clean hinges make cleaning upstairs easier.
• Restrictor hinges provide added safety where children are present.

Comfort and Convenience

• Trickle vents meet Building Regulations, help manage condensation and maintain airflow.
• Acoustic glass is ideal for homes on noisy roads, near schools, or airports.
• Low thresholds on doors improve accessibility and ease of use.
• Matching key systems simplify locking and security.
• Obscure glazing options for bathrooms and private areas.
• Solar control glass for south-facing rooms, orangeries, or garden extensions.

Practical Project Benefits

• Planning approval is more achievable with authentic timber-look alternatives.
• Low maintenance materials remove the need for painting or sanding.
• Bespoke styling allows you to replicate original features or create new ones with character.
• Increased kerb appeal and a stronger resale proposition in heritage-rich areas.

Planning and Building Regulations for Heritage Doors and Windows

When specified correctly, heritage glazing improves not just the look of your home, but also its performance, security, and value. However, planning considerations are important, especially in conservation areas or for listed buildings.

If you're unsure about regulations in your area, we recommend consulting:

• A local architect with experience in working with older homes.
• Your local authority planning department
• Historic England providing guidance on preserving architectural features
• Steel Windows Association for period metal windows
• The Window Preservation Alliance for expert advice on wood windows.

Talk to Evolution Windows

Whether you're renovating a period cottage, replacing damaged timber frames, or planning a new build with traditional character, Evolution offers the original and most authentic timber-alternative heritage products available. Our windows and doors are handcrafted to suit your home's style, with low maintenance, high efficiency, and the refined detailing expected of true heritage design.

Get in touch with our team or explore our full product range today.

Most Frequent Questions

Q. Are Heritage Windows Good Quality?
A. Yes, but it depends on the manufacturer. High-quality heritage windows should combine authentic styling, accurate representation of the originals and first-class build quality. Look for details like mechanically jointed frames, correct size glazing bars, premium hardware, pencil round joints, and a reassuring opening and closing action. Timber-look windows from specialist brands like Evolution are designed to meet these expectations.

Q. Who makes Heritage Doors
A. Heritage doors are made by several different manufacturers in uPVC, aluminium and wood. Some companies offer them as part of a larger product range, but only a few specialist manufacturers focus solely on heritage designs. The more specialist the manufacturer, the more likely you are getting a better overall product. Contact us for more information.

Q. How much does it cost for all new windows and doors?
A. How many windows and doors are in your home, the sizes, design, colour, any extras and upgrades all affect the price you pay. As a rough guide, a smaller two-three bedroom house of heritage-style windows and doors can start from £10,000 plus VAT. Contact us for information on where to obtain quotations from reputable suppliers.

Q. Who makes Heritage Windows?
A. Heritage windows are available by many manufacturers in uPVC, aluminium, steel and wood. If you want the most authentic-looking and highest quality heritage windows opt for niche manufacturers or installers that specialise in these types of products rather than providers of general windows and doors that also provide traditional windows. Contact us for more information.