Reviving an old favourite for recession renovations

THE country is in recession, but is recession renovation meaning we’re loosing a grasp of our British style and identity as a result? Tim Fairley, from Performance Doorset Solutions (PDS) discusses:

“New developments are on hold so we’re investing and reviving what we already have. The threat we face is losing all sense of heritage design due to cutting corners in renovation projects to keep costs down,” said PDS’s Managing Director. “Although we’re more aware and in control of the wasteful society we’d slipped into prior to the downturn, renovation should not be seen as a quick fix, but as a future investment in our property and our heritage.

“The answer lies in product development, the right materials need to be readily available and at reasonable costs to meet tight renovation budgets.”
PDS based in Littlebough, Rochdale, produce bespoke windows and doorsets to the public and builder’s merchant sectors and have recently acquired local glazing company, Acorn Glass. “As a company we value our heritage and our roots, it only seems appropriate that we convey this value in our product range.”

Aptly launched on St Georges’ Day, PDS have revived an old favourite and added the traditional sliding sash window to their diverse range. The replica box sliding sash window is traditional in both appearance and construction, complete with weights, cord and pulleys as per the original design. Although traditional in construction the design utilises modern manufacturing technology including; FSC laminated softwood, high performance double glazing, micro porous water based factory applied paint finish and triple weather sealed.

“We have already had great interest in the sash, not just from private clients to add a heritage theme to their home renovation project but from conservation projects. Previously old box sash windows were ripped out due to expensive replacement costs and top opening casement windows, or rip – out windows were installed as an alternative. Now, due to pressure from conservation and planning organisations to keep the look of old buildings and new dwellings in “sensitive” areas, there is a demand to create building products to suit the traditionalists and conservationists whilst satisfying modern building regulation requirements.”

PDS are maintaining their bespoke services and the traditional window is available in any size and made to measure.

“By incorporating products like the sliding sash into the PDS range we are doing our part in preserving the country’s heritage and due to the reasonable associated costs, making sure everyone can appreciate traditional English design.”