Howarth Windows and Doors has given a family from Stourbridge a whole new point of view after volunteering to provide new windows as part of a competition run by the Wood Window Alliance.
The Wood Window Alliance recently ran the competition to find the three houses in the UK that would benefit most from having their windows replaced with real wood windows. The prize was a £5,000 contribution each towards the new windows, with over 4,000 people entering.
Howarth Windows and Doors came forward and volunteered to supply and install new windows throughout one of the winning houses, which included double-glazed traditional vertical sliding sashes for the front façade of the property.
The home, a much older building that had been refaced in the 19th century, was bought as a wreck at auction. To lessen the strain on budget the homeowners decided not to replace the PVC-U units but as the house is in a conservation area in a small village this decision left the property as a sore thumb in a community of listed buildings.
The homeowners entered the competition to try and remedy this and have their home better match the classic look of their neighbour’s homes.
Helen Reeves, the winning homeowner, said: “I thought sliding sashes would be draughty but I’m thrilled, the new windows are just as warm as the old windows and we have not had to sacrifice comfort for style; in my eyes the house is now perfect, and with no compromise. For me, value isn’t just about money; good windows change the way you live in a property, it’s great to go in any room and love the windows – I’m so glad we’ve done it.”
Naomi Cleaver, the competition judge, said: “The difference in quality, function and feel is immeasurable. Performance is faultless, with the satisfying solidity of these new fittings matching up to the traditional visual appeal.”
Local estate agent Allan Morris & Peace has since confirmed that an extra £20,000 has been added to the sale price of the property as a result of the new windows and doors being installed.