Simmons & Sons

Founded in 1802, Simmons and Sons are Henleys longest established chartered surveyors and estate agents based in 32 Bell Street which was built in the late 18th century. The building retains all its original features including the wooden sliding sash windows.

These are a beautiful feature of the building but they do present problems for a modern office. “ The use of the road has changed greatly and traffic noise is now a significant problem” said Mr Kerry Clarke who is a partner in the business . “Also the windows could be very draughty and rattle in the winter whilst being difficult to open in the summer”.

Over the past year all the windows have been upgraded by Ventrolla. The unique perimeter sealing system vastly improves the thermal and acoustic performance of the window without changing the appearance. “We had looked at installing new windows in our Marlow office a few years back but chose to have them refurbished by Ventrolla. This was far more cost effective and avoided any problems with listed building consent or planning.”

The installation in the Henley office was carried out in two stages and has proved a great success. “ We are delighted with the results. Not only has the noise been greatly reduced but all the windows now open easily and the appearance of the building has not been changed in the slightest. We have also noticed a vast improvement in comfort levels this winter as draughts have been virtually eliminated”.

“We were very pleased to be involved in working in one of the finest Georgian buildings in the town . The 200 year old windows are made of better quality timber than is currently available” said Jim Neale of Henley based Ventrolla Thames Valley, Surrey & Sussex.

“People tend not to realise that existing windows can be improved to give about 90% of the thermal performance of replacement double glazed windows. Also double glazing makes virtually no difference to noise penetration. As roads have got busier we are now working in homes where the noise reduction is just as important as the thermal insulation”.