Timber Conservatory vs uPVC – Which is Best for Your Home?

Timber conservatory being installed

A conservatory is a worthwhile addition to any home, providing a room that lets light in and creates more space to live in. There are, however, certain decisions that need to be made when it comes to having a conservatory installed. For instance, you may be struggling to decide between timber and uPVC when thinking about the material you’d like it to be made with. There are pros and cons to both and the final decision is almost entirely dependent on your budgetary and housing situation. Price To begin with, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cost. Like … Continue reading

What timber is best for doors and windows?

A timber external door with glazed pane

The exterior of your home can offer real insight into the type of personality you have, as well as the lifestyle you lead. Timber has the wonderful ability to be able to infuse an air of tenacity, spirit, and character into a home that many other window and door materials simply cannot achieve. So, congratulations on choosing the most timeless home improvement material around for your High Wycombe home improvement project! What timber is best for doors and windows? You want a timber type that will last a lifetime and beyond. So, timber door and window materials should be chosen … Continue reading

What is an Approved Document Q? And what does it mean about our products?

Since 1st October 2015, Building Regulations’ Approved Document Q (Part Q) has been in place. What is an Approved Document Q? Considering the security of new homes, Approved Document Q aims to prevent home break-ins via lower-level doors and windows. It is a standard that doors and windows across England must adhere to, including appropriate hardware, to ensure they’re capable of withstanding physical attacks from burglars. Under these standards, all new door and window designs must pass various tests and assessments that meet the security requirements of PAS 24:2012 (or other standards that meet or exceed PAS 24:2012). In order … Continue reading

Looking for new wooden doors in High Wycombe? Look no further!

So, you’ve set your sights on a traditionally styled timber door to enhance the look and feel of your High Wycombe home, but don’t know where to turn to transform your dream into a reality. Well, to help you out we’ve compiled the top 3 reasons why Kirkman Joinery should be your first port of call for new wooden doors in High Wycombe: 1. 100% customer endorsement We’re very proud to say that the majority of our work comes from repeat business and word of mouth recommendations. With a 5 out of 5 Google reviews rating, we thought it best … Continue reading

Our ideas guide to wooden (timber) conservatories

As we approach the summer months, interest into inviting the outside in with a beautiful timber conservatory installation steadily rises at Kirkman Joinery. So, we thought we’d share our ideas with you to help create the perfect wooden conservatory this summer: Why choose a wooden conservatory? Timber conservatories ooze individual charm, as every installation is unique to each one of our customers. This makes them ideal extensions for both traditional and modern homes; complementing properties with conservation or listed building status, whilst adding a touch of character to contemporary homes. Apart from being strong, durable, practical, long-lasting, a brilliant natural … Continue reading

3 lesser known benefits to having timber windows

Timber sliding sash window in white

Modern timber windows seamlessly integrate into the traditional aesthetic appearance of listed and period properties like no other material around, due to contemporary advancements over the last 20 years or so. Quality, durability and the design of timber window installations has dramatically matured and developed into something quite spectacular, where the products technical properties have been matched and (in places) surpass alternative construction materials. Seeing as you’re thinking about upgrading your timber windows, we thought we’d let you in on some lesser known benefits to having these timber wonders in your life! Best choice for an eco-conscious home Timber has … Continue reading

Can wooden bi-folding doors be used externally as well as internally?

Timber bi-folding doors

At this time of year many homeowners are seeking renovation inspiration, combining both traditional styling and modern performance. Popular with homeowners looking to maximise floor space whilst seamlessly linking interior and exterior areas, the demand for bi-folding doors has significantly risen over the last two decades. Wooden bi-folding doors are a popular choice, especially in period properties. And, although their popularity continues to steadily increase, confusion still surrounds; ‘Can wooden bi-folding doors be used externally as well as internally?’ Generally, timber is thought to be quite a porous material; therefore, not as long-lasting and not suitable to be used externally. … Continue reading

What is Accoya wood?

Timber front door with timber beams surrounding

Accoya wood is chemically modified timber. Natural softwood is put through an acetylation process to enhance its characteristics. Accoya is durable, sustainably sourced, and thermally efficient. Its superior strength and attractive aesthetic make it the perfect material for creating bespoke windows and doors. The Accoya wood acetylation process Wood acetylation is a scientifically proven method of improving the properties of natural timber. During the acetylation process, the softwood is treated with acetic anhydride. This alters the cell structure of the softwood, transforming the naturally occurring free hydroxyls into acetyl groups. Once the process is complete, the Accoya wood is harder, … Continue reading

What are the benefits of buying a timber conservatory over a uPVC conservatory?

A timber conservatory/extension with modern kitchen

When you’re planning to install a conservatory at your home, there are lots of things to consider. Perhaps the biggest consideration is what material your conservatory will be made from. Your conservatory’s frame should be strong, durable, and aesthetically attractive. It should also suit the style of your existing property. If you live in an older, more established property, a traditional style conservatory will probably suit your home best. Conservatories are available in Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian styles, in both timber and uPVC. Ultimately, personal preference, budget, and property type will influence your final decision. A timber conservatory does however, … Continue reading

Tempting timber bi-folding doors (and how to use them indoors)

White Timber Bifolds

Bi-fold doors are an innovative way to open up your home. In recent years, they have become a popular choice for homeowners across the UK. At Kirkman Joinery, our timber bi-folding doors are bespoke designed and manufactured to meet your exact specifications. Here are some of our timber bi-folding door installations to help you gain inspiration for your home improvement plans. Six glass pane exterior bi-fold doors These six panel and four panel bi-fold door runs are finished in a muted light grey colour. Their low-level panelling provides extra privacy while lots of natural light is brought in through the … Continue reading