As you may be aware, listing marks and celebrates a building’s special architectural and historic interest. These buildings can be hundreds of years old and often carry a compelling past – making their protection integral to maintaining a community’s unique character. Read on to explore some important reasons why listed buildings should be preserved and cared for.
Material value
Old buildings are often made of high-quality materials, such as rare hardwood and wood from primary forests that no longer exist. In many cases, these impressive buildings would have been built by different standards which may make a century-old building more aesthetically and practically appealing than its modern counterparts. The unique properties of these buildings are often standout features within towns and cities, representing a community’s historical roots.
Less environmental impact
It probably comes as no surprise that reusing and restoring old buildings has less environmental impact than building new ones. This is because the destruction of buildings results in a large amount of waste from concrete, metals, glass, plastics and more – waste that is often disposed of in landfills or incinerators and consequently pollutes the land and air.
The construction sector actually uses 400 million tonnes of material every year, which results in 100 million tonnes of waste being produced (a third of the UK’s total yearly waste amount) with 25 million tonnes of construction waste making its way to landfill. While the construction industry has implemented improved recycling and reuse practices in recent years, it still has a long way to go. With many old buildings boasting sustainable features, reusing and restoring will have a reduced impact on the environment than demolishing and building from scratch.
Cultural attraction
Another prominent reason for the preservation of listed buildings is their ability to attract tourists and visitors. Older buildings consist of unique properties that many people find interesting and appealing. In many cases, listed buildings signify important aspects of England’s social, economic, cultural or military history.
They may also hold close historical associations with nationally important people. Whether it’s the use of materials such as old brick or unusually placed marble, intriguing historic roots or even some ornate detail, older architecture is likely to contain standout features. Not only can these buildings be utilised by businesses to fulfil new uses, but they can also retain their existing appeal within the community.
At London Sash Windows & Doors Ltd we have many years of experience in sympathetically and skilfully restoring windows and doors for listed buildings throughout London. Our work on listed buildings includes bespoke secondary glazing, timber sash window installations and draught proofing. For more information on heritage doors and windows, please contact us today.
