An elegant alternative to original windows Timber-alternative Rose Collection sash windows help restore this Georgian cottage to its former glory.

After years of neglect, Millwater Cottage was in desperate need of renovation. Built in 1752, this pretty Georgian mill house sits in a beautiful location in Surrey next to a river and old mill. Flanked by listed buildings and sitting firmly within a conservation area, works had to be sensitive both to the property itself and the area’s heritage.

While the structure of the building was sound the cottage was in need of careful restoration, bringing it back to how it should be while improving energy efficiency, soundproofing and weathertightness. Nowhere was this more evident than with the windows.

According to developer and homeowner Claire: “The house was a mix of original single glazed sash windows that were rotten and draughty, and unsightly replacement uPVC fake sashes. The whole lot had to go.

“Victorian and Georgian homes are a classic feature of British architecture, and that’s largely down to their beautiful large sash windows. Traditionally sash windows are timber, but they are pricey and come with their own problems, including rot, swelling and the constant maintenance of re-painting. But what is the alternative? Having seen so many poor-quality replicas on the market the thought of uPVC windows made me shudder, and I was about to place my order timber sash windows. Then I came across Roseview and I was absolutely blown away.”

In 1985 Roseview Windows was the first company in the UK to specialise in timber-alternative sash windows. As a result their experience, expertise and attention to detail are second-to-none.

Their Rose Collection sash windows have been specifically designed to closely match the features and details of original sashes. Details such as seamless slim sightlines, putty line detailing, joinery-style closed-end fully mechanical butt joints and completely seamless continuous sash horns, coupled with authentic traditional astragal bars, add up to make a sash window that’s indistinguishable from timber, even from close-up.

But the use of modern manufacturing techniques and materials mean that—while they may look the same—Rose Collection sash windows outperform timber in a number of ways. They are warm, secure, quiet and easy to use. And they never need repainting.

On this project, a total of 14 Rose Collection sash windows were specified, including two fully integrated bay windows. All windows were finished in white woodgrain and include simple period astragal bar designs. The property is in a conservation area, so a fully authentic appearance was required, delivered through the Rose Collection’s use of authentic corner technology, ultra-slim 35mm midrail detail and seamless construction. As the cottage sits next to a fast-flowing river cutting, acoustics were another key consideration. Enhanced noise reduction was achieved by specifying acoustic glass, reducing external sound by up to 38dB.

“What attracted me most was that they have been accepted in conservation areas throughout the country; that in itself says enough about the quality. We added acoustic glass to our order, so not much noise can get through. It’s pretty amazing. It’s definitely worth spending the extra on acoustic glass if you live on a busy road or next to a noisy river like we do.” Claire continues. “The result is incredible. Our home now looks exactly as it should, and we know that we never have to worry about the windows again.”

Discussing the project, Roseview’s MD Richard Burrells said: “We worked very closely with Claire throughout this project, as the end-product had to be exactly right. We offered advice on some of the finer details that would make the windows fully authentic for the age and style of the building, as well as its surroundings. The result is spectacular, and a credit to Claire’s vision.”

To find out more about Rose Collection sash windows, visit www.sashwindowsuk.com or call Roseview on 01234 712657.