Windows: "before" & "after"

Peter dismantling the frame of the old Crittall window - the fixing screws had become so rusty the workmen couldn't take the window out in one piece. So, they had to resort to "plan b"...

Mm mm mm! The smell of the angle grinder & hot metal. And "special" dust - think very dirty talc; gets everywhere!

Still, we knew it was going to be worth it, and no remodelling work on a property happens without grit.

We were everso lucky with the weather; even the Thursday & Friday, which were supposed to be rainy, stayed good - apart from a little shower on Friday after the glass was in!

We wanted to replace the windows with metal framed, Crittal-type windows, but Paul said it would be twice the price. We were still thinking about it, but then realised that because the freeholders have allowed such a variety of replacements, it would be a total waste of money.

Everyone else would still have nasty plastic ones!

Mick had made all the uPVC windows off-site, so installation was much easier than getting the old windows out! The sealed glazing units were then fitted once the window was in place.

We had to have some of the windowsills replaced; the metal frames of the old windows seemed to actively encourage condensation!

We've already become accustomed to the lower level of noise; it's never going to go away - we are on the South Circular, after all.

But it's already seeming like money well spent! And given the rust on some of the frames, done not a moment too soon!