Enquire
Thanks for getting in touch.
We'll get back to you shortly.
Need an urgent response?
Need an urgent response?
This project incorporated the repair, refurbishment and modification of timber windows and the supply of equivalent replacement windows where restoration of existing windows was not reasonable.
In addition, we were asked to prepare a survey report for almost 500 timber windows of several types at various locations and to develop and propose a methodology for timber window refurbishment within the building.
As a leading provider of window refurbishment services in the UK, TRC has a long history of working on historic buildings and a reputation for quality workmanship. We were proud to preserve and add value to such a majestic building.
Process
Work included producing control samples and benchmarking windows under vigorous quality inspection, baseline overhaul involving removal of built up debris to frames and glazing (completed with installation of Draftfix draught exclusion system), removal of excess paint and plastic film from glass surfaces, replacement of missing/broken historical glass or redundant fans with approved matching glass alternative, size and shape restoration of sashes by packing or shooting, sash cord replacement, and mechanical check/action facilitating correct operation of windows.
Timber repairs were carried out using our proven RepairCare methods in combination with modern timber splicing techniques and bespoke timber parts replacement with resembling timber species which aim for minimal removal of original material.
Improved resistance to window timber decay was achieved by using conservation joints and replacing old weathered putty with modern alternatives.
All bare timber repair surfaces were made ready and primed using more user/environment friendly water-based dual-purpose Dulux Wood Primer.
Any window ironmongery items including fanlight actuators were carefully removed, bagged up and an inventory record kept. These items were then sent to a specialist restoration firm for cleaning and refurbishment following heritage ironmongery repair methods. Any ironmongery defective or beyond repair was noted and alternatives offered. Special attention was required for old existing fanlight actuators due to their size and casted iron fragility. The finishes and base material of replacement ironmongery were matched to originals. After restoration, the ironmongery was carefully installed back on to the windows in original locations.
Prior to manufacture, new bespoke replacement windows required detailed design to match existing windows. The removal of existing windows and installation of new windows was performed in a focused manner. Reusable parts of existing windows were kept and used for repairs of other windows in the building.
Challenges
Solutions
Results
The window refurbishment of the Norman Shaw North Building was a complex project successfully completed by TRC Windows. The new windows are a valuable addition to the building and will help preserve it for future generations.
History
Other than the Palace, the Norman Shaw North Building is the only other Grade I Listed building on the Parliamentary Estate. Both buildings were listed on the same day in February 1970, which means the structure is of exceptional architectural or historic interest.
The building was originally built in 1888-90 as the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police. When the Metropolitan Police moved to new premises in nearby Broadway in 1967, the Norman Shaw buildings were acquired for incorporation into the Parliamentary Estate in the early 1970s.
The windows in the Norman Shaw North building are a significant part of the building’s character. The original windows were made of timber and leaded lights. The refurbished windows are existing originals and all new windows are a trusty reproduction of the originals which also incorporate modern features such as draught exclusion.
