Window installation challenges in older Melbourne houses: Our process

Upgrading the windows in ageing Melbourne houses brings functionality and energy efficiency improvements. However, installing modern glazing into period homes built over a century ago poses various challenges that standard installation processes fail to address.

Drawing from over 20 years managing window upgrade projects across Victoria, we’ll summarise key challenges faced and how our team’s refined methodology streamlines these heritage home upgrades.

Heritage considerations

We consult early with heritage architects and council advisors on installation plans that retain period charm while discretely improving functionality. Frame profiles, glazing formats and opening styles aim for congruous integration, not contrast.

Improved weatherproofing methods used

Our weather sealing enhances heritage windows’ poor insulation without evident visual changes. Non-invasive attachment points, slim bonded gaskets and concealed flashing prevent driving rain entering wall cavities while maintaining original styles.

Common challenges faced

1. Irregular aged window openings
2. Loose crumbling plaster around frames
3. Brittle cracked brickwork sills
4. Unknown wall cavity depths
5. Inconsistent house subsidence
6. Preserving heritage sightline aesthetics

These factors demand creative solutions beyond typical installations.

Our process tailored for period homes

1. Opening Measurement

• We use 3D laser scanning tools to capture precise measurements of the window openings, accounting for irregular dimensions caused by years of minor subsidence and shifting
• High resolutions photos are taken to document the extent of lopsidedness, cracking and building material anomalies around the openings
• Quantifying the damage level and exact replacement frame sizing needed aids heritage-accurate custom fabrication

1. Custom Frame Fabrication

• Leveraging the 3D scans and image capture, we CAD design and fabricate slimline aluminium or timber framed windows that replicate the intricate period profiles and styles
• Profiles match original widths and sightlines so visual charm is retained
• Glazing is symmetrically adjusted across the opening’s uneven planes

1. Careful Demolition

• We stabilise damaged masonry before window removal using consolidation chemicals injected into cracks
• Slow oscillating cutting around Perimeter frames reduces vibrations that further destabilise fragile bricks
• This protects the remaining integrity of the openings prior to new frame insertion

1. New Frame Installation

• Shims, packing materials and masonry filler responds to indentation variations across each unique opening to create flush finishes
• Exterior caulking seals the frame perimeter gaps, preventing water ingress and improving weatherproofing

1. Window Testing

• Upon completion, certified performance testing confirms the new sealed frames surpass codes for water infiltration resistance
• Final documentation includes scans, photos and inspectors’ structural certification issuing building approvals compliance sign-off

Updated hardware for enhanced operation

Retaining casement window formats, we integrate modern, more durable hardware that lasts for decades with improved opening/closing action meeting enhanced security standards. Discreet lubrication points also aid long-term operation.

Supporting structure remediation

We repoint structural cracking in period facades and introduce stabilising reinforcement inserts between windows to arrest subsidence issues exacerbating wear before installing replacements. This prevents transfer of forces to new frames.

Window furnishing improvements

Heritage styles lacked effective solar control, relying on heavy drapes. Our double glazing and low-E glass coatings reduce heat gain sufficiently to use lighter window treatments, preserving room ambience while improving insulation.

Synergy with energy efficiency upgrades

We consult on holistic improvement plans encompassing glazing, ceiling insulation, draught-proofing and system upgrades like heating/cooling unobtrusively adapted for heritage aesthetics. Creating comfort doesn’t necessitate visible modern alterations.

Council planning scheme allowances

Navigating council planning approvals, we highlight clauses supporting heritage enhancement works and greater internal amenity improvement. Demonstrating unobtrusive designs fulfilling heritage objectives aids consent, backed by dimensionally authentic frame specifications.

Conclusion

Replacing heritage home windows requires far greater precision and care to retain period features while improving functionality. By following a methodology tailored for Melbourne’s ageing housing stock, we streamline enhancements sympathetically. Contact my team to discuss your project’s distinctive demands.