Sensitive Secondary glazing the primary choice for Listed former Mill

The Grade II* Listed Blue Mills in Witham, Essex dates back to the 18^th century. However, its history goes back considerably further. In the 11^th century, it was recorded in Domesday as the water mill at Benton Hall. In recent years, the mill was used as office space for the previous owner but has now been reinstated to its 18^th century version and family home.

The recent owners have lived in Blue Mills for almost 20 years and required a thermal solution, with acoustic benefits to make their home at the mill more comfortable. The thermally inefficient primary windows across the house did little to retain heat.

Selectaglaze was approached for advice on the best possible treatments for their primary windows; a mixture of styles of windows, which meant that a considered approach was required.

A total of 22 windows have been treated thus far. Two windows in the wood-panelled room were treated with Selectaglaze’s heritage Series 47 hinged casement system in a woodgrain finish, which was able to sit tight behind the wooden shutters, allowing their continued operation.

The Billiard Room was fitted with four Series 45 side hung casements. The bay windows posed the biggest challenge as they were not plumb and true, due to the age of the building. In order to prepare them for the secondary glazing, tapered timbers were fixed to the openings to square up the reveals.

“We have been so impressed by the design of the windows and frames and the bespoke options. External noise has been all but eliminated and the air tight fittings and thickness of glass will significantly reduce our energy bill. The framings actually enhance the inherent beauty of the Georgian windows and in no way obscure the views outside. The Selectaglaze product has certainly transformed the living experience of our home.”

Selectaglaze is the leading specialist in secondary glazing, established in 1966 and Royal Warrant Holder since 2004. A free technical advisory service is offered and RIBA approved CPDs are available to architects and designers.

Contact Selectaglaze on 01727 837271/e mail: enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk or visit: www.selectaglaze.co.uk