Timber - PVC - Aluminium - Windows, Doors & Conservatories in Hampshire
Preserving the Past: A Guide to Heritage Windows & Doors in Historic Market Towns
Preserving the Past: A Guide to Heritage Windows & Doors in Historic Market Towns
Key Takeaways: Upgrading Heritage Homes
- Conservation Areas: Often covered by Article 4 directions, meaning you must replace windows “like-for-like.”
- The Solution: Timber-alternative windows (Residence 9) satisfy planners while eliminating maintenance.
- Local Character: We tailor designs to specific town styles, from Georgian Alresford to Victorian Hungerford.
- Grade II Listed: Requires Secondary Glazing rather than replacement frames.
There is a specific charm to living in our local market towns. The Georgian facades of Alresford, the wide High Street of Marlborough, and the riverside cottages of Stockbridge all have one thing in common: beautiful architecture that is often freezing cold in winter.
For decades, homeowners in these areas faced a difficult choice. You could keep your original single-glazed timber windows (and accept the draughts, rot, and constant painting), or you could install generic “white plastic” double glazing and ruin the look of your home—often getting into trouble with the local Conservation Officer in the process.
Fortunately, times have changed. At KJM Group, we specialise in Timber-Alternative technology—windows and doors that look exactly like 19th-century joinery but perform like 21st-century engineering.
Understanding Your Local Architecture
We work across Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Berkshire, and we know that every town has its own architectural “fingerprint.” Here is how we approach renovations in our key heritage areas:
(Click image to zoom)
1. The Georgian Charm of Alresford
New Alresford is famous for its colour-washed Georgian houses. When replacing windows here, slim sightlines are critical. We often recommend the Residence 9 (R9) system for properties in the town centre. Its flush sash design mimics the flat appearance of traditional 19th-century timber windows found along West Street and Broad Street.
➡ Read more: Windows & Doors in Alresford
2. The Fishing Heritage of Stockbridge
With the River Test running under the High Street, Stockbridge properties often face higher moisture levels. Traditional timber frames here can rot quickly if not maintained. Our timber-alternative sash windows offer the classic “putty line” finish and run-through sash horns required for cottages.
➡ Read more: Renovating Homes in Stockbridge
3. The Merchant History of Marlborough
Marlborough’s stunningly wide High Street is lined with substantial merchant houses. Many of these are Grade II listed or fall within strict Article 4 directions. In these scenarios, we often deploy Secondary Glazing for listed buildings, or ultra-premium mechanical jointed sashes that satisfy planning officers by replicating the exact depth and shadow lines of the originals.
➡ Read more: Heritage Solutions for Marlborough
4. The Canalside Character of Hungerford
From the antique shops to the canal, Hungerford has a unique mix of Victorian terraces and older cottages. A common upgrade here is the front door. We install solid-core Composite Doors that replicate the heavy, solid feel of a Victorian timber door—complete with traditional ironmongery—but offer PAS 24 security standards to keep your home safe.
➡ Read more: Hungerford Home Improvements
Recommended Heritage Collections
Looking for the right product for your period home? Here are the ranges we most frequently recommend for Conservation Areas:
- Residence 9 Windows (The ultimate 19th-century flush sash replica)
- Roseview Sash Windows (Authentic vertical sliders with run-through horns)
- Real Timber Windows (Sustainable hardwood and softwood options)
- Solidor Composite Doors (Solid timber core with traditional styling)
- Hardwood Front Doors (The genuine article for listed properties)
- Secondary Glazing (Essential for Grade II Listed properties)
Comparison: Timber vs. Timber-Alternative
If you are undecided between traditional wood and modern alternatives, this quick guide explains the differences.
Material Comparison Guide
| Feature | Traditional Timber | Residence 9 / Roseview |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | 100% Authentic. The only option for Grade I/II* Listed buildings. | Indistinguishable from timber from the kerbside. Features mechanical joints & woodgrain finish. |
| Maintenance | High. Requires sanding, treating, and repainting every 5-7 years to prevent rot. | Zero. Simply wipe down with soapy water. Will not rot, warp, or flake. |
| Thermal Efficiency | Good (if double glazed), but timber moves with temperature, eventually causing drafts. | Excellent. Multi-chambered profiles achieve A+ Energy Ratings easily. |
| Cost | High initial investment + ongoing maintenance costs. | Lower initial cost and zero maintenance costs over the lifespan. |
*Swipe table left/right to view all columns on mobile devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually, yes. If you live in a designated Conservation Area (like parts of Marlborough or Alresford), you are often subject to an “Article 4 Direction.” This removes your permitted development rights.
You must replace windows on a “like-for-like” basis regarding appearance, material, and opening method. KJM can help guide you through this process with local authorities.
Yes. We offer a vast range of heritage colours including Painswick, Chartwell Green, Clotted Cream, and classic Grained White.
We can even offer dual colours—for example, Agate Grey on the outside to match the street, and English Oak on the inside to match your furniture.
If your property is fully Listed, you generally cannot use PVC-u or timber-alternatives for the external frames.
In these cases, we recommend Secondary Glazing. This sits inside your existing window, retaining the historic fabric of the building while significantly reducing noise and heat loss.
Trusted Local Experts
At KJM Group, we don’t use high-pressure sales tactics. We simply offer honest advice born from over 40 years of working on Hampshire and Wiltshire homes.
Whether you are in Hungerford, Stockbridge, Alresford, or Marlborough, we can help you modernize your home while preserving its history.
Mark Pearce is a highly experienced specialist in the double glazing industry, having built his knowledge from the ground up through hands-on experience in installation, manufacturing, sales, and business management. Beyond his role at KJM, Mark is a keen blogger, writer, and traveller, often sharing insights on the latest innovations in the home improvement industry.
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