UK Home Types Guide

Typically tall sash windows with deep reveals, sometimes with an ornate architrave that narrows the usable recess. Bay windows are common on front elevations. Measure the mid-rail height carefully against the sash meeting rail, and check reveal depth at both the top and bottom of the window — older frames have often settled unevenly. Café style or full-height louvred shutters both suit the proportions of this period well.

Often characterised by a shallow bay with three or more panes at slightly different angles. Measure each pane separately, and confirm the bay angle with us so the corner posts are specified correctly. Recesses in homes of this era are usually a reliable 60–100mm deep, comfortably suited to inside mount.

Tilt-and-turn or casement windows with a shallow or non-existent recess are common in new-build homes, often making an outside mount the better choice. Check for a window handle that swings well into the room when open — this affects your frame depth and clearance requirements.

In homes built or extended after around 1990, the window reveal is often finished with plasterboard over insulation rather than exposed masonry. If that's your situation, your in-recess fixings will be going into plasterboard — worth bearing in mind when planning your installation. Our self-fitment guide covers fixing into different reveal types.

If your property is listed or in a conservation area, check whether any planning consent or listed building consent is needed before altering window fittings — this is a matter for your local planning authority, not something we can advise on. Once you've confirmed what's permitted, our team can help you choose a style and frame that respects the character of the property.