KAT CREATES NEW LIFE FOR PERIOD COTTAGE
A full range of KAT’s aluminium window and door systems were selected to
upgrade a Cheshire period cottage, installed by authorised contractor, Smart
Installations.
When the owner of an 18th Century cottage in Cheshire embarked upon a
refurbishment project, she had a clear idea of the style and performance
requirements for her new windows and doors to ensure the upgrade was
sympathetic to the period and character of her home, whilst also providing
excellent security and weatherproofing.
Ash Cottage stands at the top of a valley on the outskirts of picturesque
Cheshire village, Prestbury. Built in 1777, the building is a prominent road-side
landmark, with a visible date stone on the front façade. The new home owner
wished to respect and enhance the heritage of her home.
The glazing was previously uPVC windows and doors which were worn and
tired, but also did not compliment the white exterior colour of the cottage. The
new home owner felt that the uPVC was not in-keeping with the romantic
heritage of the cottage.
Ms Galarda did consider timber frames to replace the uPVC, to create the
original look of the cottage. But upon greater research, she decided timber
would require a lot of maintenance externally considering the position and
weather systems the home faces in the valley.
Ms Galarda visited KAT’s showroom in Macclesfield, Cheshire, and was quickly
attracted to the quality and choice of KAT’s aluminium windows and doors.
The fact KAT could fulfil the whole order within two weeks was a huge benefit
to the home owner as she had left her decision making to the last minute.
Ash Cottage required seven windows, three two-pane bi-folding doors and two
entrance doors. KAT could offer acoustic laminated glass to reduce road noise
as well as added security.
KAT offers seven stock colours, available across its full range of aluminium
window and door products, and in dual options.
Ms Galarda chose Anthracite Grey external frames to contrast with the white
exterior walls, whilst still in-keeping with the age and character of the cottage.
Internally, the frames are white to add light and a spacious effect to the rooms.
The homeowner chose two KATsecure aluminium entrance doors for the front
and back of her home to complete the contemporary style created by the
windows and bi-folding doors. With a four-point Cobra lock and a 3-star
diamond security cylinder with Kitemark, the doors offered the security
desired by the family as well as excellent thermal values.
KAT’s ever-popular bi-folding doors were also installed at Ash Cottage, allowing
maximum natural light into the home.
From order to delivery, the process took less than two weeks. Installation was
straightforward, because each frame is hand crafted to exact measurements at
one of KAT’s three manufacturing facilities in Cheshire and Newhaven.
Ms Galarda said: “We had a short lead time in which to choose and arrange
installation of the new windows. But rather than be limited by time and choice,
KAT and Smart Installations presented the widest range to choose from that
was readily available so quickly.”
“We are delighted by the visual effect of the contrasting window frames to the
white walls. The aluminium gives us peace of mind with its durability and
security, yet looks impressive too. The house feels noticeably warmer and
secure.”
Paul Gledson of Smart Installations, said: “I would always recommend KAT’s
comprehensive range of aluminium products. As a manufacturer and supplier,
they provide reliable service and top quality aluminium products. They are
bespoke crafted, which ensures the installation is straightforward and a
precise finish.”
Chris Powell, KAT commercial director, added: “KAT has seen a 63% increase in
sales of its aluminium products in the last 12 months, with continual growth
forecast for 2017. The market is growing, both in the period and new home
sectors and we are delighted by the reception and feedback from our
independent design partners about the quality, choice and service we offer.”