Tips for Maintaining Your Period Property in the UK

When it comes to the character in a home, period properties throughout the UK are brimming with it. These properties were built before WWI and tend to encompass the Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian ages. They feature beautiful details and are striking to look at, but thanks to their age they do require some pretty regular maintenance and upkeep. Here's a look at some of the steps you may want to take with your period property to keep it in good condition.

Is Your Building Listed?

The first thing to know about older homes is whether or not it is listed. You may already know this, but if you're unsure you can visit the National Heritage List for England online. Simply enter a keyword or postcode to get details. If it is listed, it will also be given a grade, which is either I, II* or II. Grade I is reserved for those buildings that are of the highest significance.

If your home is listed, it can affect the changes you are allowed to make to the exterior and interior of the home. It’s best to investigate further so you can get all the pertinent information.

Give the Sash Windows Some Attention

Victorian and Georgian homes are well known for their sash windows, as it's part of their charm. But just like with any window style, it has a lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. Of course, it’s not as easy as simply installing a new window, as you want to be sure that the contractor you hire has extensive experience with period homes and sash windows. Timbawood is a great option when it comes to traditional sash windows in London. There are single- or double-glazed sash window options, but you need them to fit the existing frame so that no changes are made. Instead of a complete replacement, you may even be able to refurbish the current sash window.

Visit a Salvage Yard for Replacement Pieces

Homeowners may be tempted to scrap the old details in the home once they become worn or damaged, but before changing the look, experts suggest visiting a salvage yard. It's amazing the kind of items you can find there that can be used to restore features in your home. There are also speciality shops that offer period pieces, so it's well worth doing a little research and legwork.

Look for Design and Décor Inspiration Online and In Magazines

When it comes to interior design and décor it can be hard to stay true to the essence of the home without finding examples and inspiration. This is when online pictures and magazines can prove very helpful. If you’re still hitting a wall and aren’t sure where to begin, try hiring an interior designer who specialises in period properties.

A Period Property Is a Special Piece of History

Those who own and live in period properties in the UK often see it as an honour. They own a special piece of history and the goal should be to keep it in excellent shape so that the generations to come can continue to appreciate it.