Conservation Sash Windows Glasgow – A Guide to Compliant Restoration and Replacement

Glasgow is a city celebrated for its rich architectural heritage, with many neighbourhoods showcasing stunning Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian buildings. Traditional timber sash and case windows are a defining feature of this landscape and play a crucial role in its historic character. In designated conservation areas, preserving these original features is more than just an aesthetic choice — it is often a planning requirement.

At MWM Matt Window Mate, we specialise in the restoration and like-for-like replacement of traditional timber sash windows across Glasgow, helping homeowners maintain the beauty of their properties while staying fully compliant with conservation regulations.

Based in Glasgow, MWM Matt Window Mate is an award-winning family-run business with a strong track record in traditional sash window restoration. We work exclusively with timber sash windows in listed buildings and conservation areas, combining craftsmanship, planning knowledge and a commitment to customer care.

Why Sash Windows Matter in Glasgow’s Conservation Areas

Conservation areas are designed to protect the historic character and appearance of buildings and streetscapes. Windows are one of the most visually prominent architectural features, and in Glasgow, most traditional homes were originally fitted with timber sash and case windows as standard.

To retain authenticity, any replacements must match the original in material, proportion, profiles and opening mechanism — particularly on front-facing elevations.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Recent guidance from Glasgow City Council outlines when planning permission is required for window replacements in conservation areas. 🔗 View the full guidance here

At MWM Matt Window Mate, we provide detailed technical drawings to support planning applications, helping homeowners secure faster and smoother approval.

You do NOT need planning permission if:

• You are replacing a window on the rear or side elevation, unless the side faces a road.

• You are restoring existing windows — for example, upgrading them with draught-proofing systems, installing new opening mechanisms, or repainting them — provided the original style and materials are retained.

Our Heritage Sash Window Services

We support homeowners across Glasgow’s historic districts with a full range of conservation-grade window services:

• Award-winning renovation of original timber sash windows

• Double-glazing upgrades suitable for conservation and listed buildings

• Replacement of cords, sashes, pulleys and weights

• Bespoke timber window replacements, precisely matched to originals

• Installation of discreet draught-proofing systems for traditional frames

  
  

We work with care and respect for Glasgow’s architectural past, combining traditional joinery techniques with modern performance standards.

Heritage - Approved Double Glazing

Improving energy efficiency is essential — even in protected buildings. Our conservation-appropriate double-glazed timber sash windows are tailored to each property, delivering the appearance of an original window with the thermal performance of a modern one.

All upgrades are fully compliant with Glasgow City Council’s planning guidance.

Funding Support Available for Sash Window Upgrades

Improving a heritage home can be a significant investment, but Scottish Government-backed funding may be available to support sash window upgrades.

You may be eligible for:

• Home Energy Scotland Grant & Loan – grants available without loan requirement

• Warmer Homes Scotland – support for insulation and glazing

• Landlord Loans – for registered private landlords improving EPC ratings

🔗 Check eligibility here

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you are restoring a single sash window or upgrading every one in your home, MWM Matt Window Mate is here to help.

• Free advice and no-obligation estimates

• Heritage-compliant windows for conservation and listed buildings

• Planning support with technical drawings included

• Proudly based in Glasgow and passionate about local architecture

At MWM Matt Window Mate, our mission is to protect Glasgow’s rich architectural legacy — one window at a time. Whether you’re renovating a single sash or replacing every window in your home, we offer expert advice, meticulous craftsmanship, and full compliance with local planning requirements.

Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can bring your historic windows back to life — beautifully and efficiently.

CONTACT US

We no longer take contact by phone to keep communication organised and focused for every project.