Lesson in Victorian studies as Ventrolla renovates period windows of City of Bristol College

Sash window renovation specialists, Ventrolla, have upgraded the sash windows of Cabot, Davy and Brunel houses – all of which accommodate active classrooms that form part of the City of Bristol seat of learning.

As part of an extensive project to refurbish the three, Grade II listed Victorian buildings, Ventrolla Wessex worked closely with main contractors, Pearce Construction Limited in the renovation of 700 sash windows at Cabot and Davy houses and Chamberlain Contractors in the renovation of a further 250 windows at Brunel house. To ensure minimum disruption to the students during refurbishment of the windows, efforts were made by Ventrolla to work during weekends and holiday periods. Following completion of the third building – Brunel House in September 2005, Ventrolla are now looking to the next stage of the project, which involves the conversion of a further building into accommodation.

Ventrolla are the UK market leaders in sash window renovation, and as such, have an excellent reputation for faithfully retaining the traditional style of a window, whilst bringing modern standards of performance. Ventrolla used their own VR90 Wood Repair system to repair, wherever possible, the original sash windows at Ashley Down. Where it was not possible to retain the original windows, Ventrolla replicated the traditional style, which even required the reproduction of the original delicate glazing bars. Thereafter, the company upgraded the windows, using its unique Perimeter Sealing System, to eliminate draughts and rattles, as well significantly reducing the effects of external noise. To ensure on-going ease of maintenance, Ventrolla installed its Sash Removal System, which allows quick and easy removal of sashes, facilitating cleaning and decorating. Finally, due to the height of the windows, cord operated opening systems were fitted to each.

In a project necessitating excellent co-ordination between all parties, including Ventrolla, Pearce Construction, Chamberlain Contractors, Architects - Bush Consultancy and Management Consultants, Provelio Ltd, the client was delighted with the outcome and commented: “In an educational establishment, it is vital to ensure that any works are carried out efficiently and with minimal disruption to our students. We are extremely pleased with the outcome, and with the improvements that have been brought to the college environment.”