When it comes to replacing sliding sash windows in Grade II listed or conservation area properties, the received wisdom is that only timber frames are acceptable. The PVC-U Genesis Vertical Slider from Bison Frames is proving the received wisdom is not always right

When it comes to replacing sliding sash windows in Grade II listed or conservation area properties, the received wisdom is that only timber frames are acceptable. The PVC-U Genesis Vertical Slider from Bison Frames is proving the received wisdom is not always right.

The creation of the Genesis sash window was simple. A customer came to us and said they wanted to use PVC-U windows in their Grade II listed cottage and could we help them achieve this. It was a challenge we couldn’t resist. We wanted to prove that a PVC-U window could fulfil all the criteria a timber window could as well as bring additional benefits in the form of exceptional thermal efficiency and low maintenance.

The window we developed turns everything you thought you knew about PVC-U windows on its head. Quite simply, the Genesis VS has the most authentic appearance of any PVC-U sliding sash window on the market. In fact, it is so authentic that not only was it accepted for use in the home of our first customer it is now being widely considered and accepted for use in Grade II listed buildings and conservation area properties up and down the country.

There are two reasons why the Genesis Vertical Slider looks virtually indistinguishable from its timber counterpart.

The first is the use of conventional timber jointing methods on the frame and sash that superbly replicate a traditionally-crafted timber window for a truly authentic appearance.

The second is the low sheen finish rather than the high sheen one you expect to see on a PVC-U window. The Genesis VS is available in a wide range of woodgrain foiled and heritage colour finishes that all replicate the understated finish of a timber window.

To complete the beautifully authentic look, the Genesis VS also has period-look hardware in the form of high security Acorn cam locks and sash buttons, run-through sash horns and a deep bottom sash rail as standard and optional fully milled Georgian/Astragal bars.

Despite the craftsmanship, attention to detail, design innovations and different construction method of the Genesis VS, it preserves the two key characteristics of a PVC-U window. It is no more difficult to fit than a standard PVC-U vertical slider and easily achieves a Window Energy Rating of ‘A’ offering all the thermal efficiency benefits you would expect today.

Here at Bison we are proud the Genesis VS is being accepted for use in so many Grade II listed and conservation area properties. We are delighted the owners of these beautiful buildings are able to benefit from all the advantages PVC-U offers. We value our country’s heritage and would never advocate installing a standard PVC-U window in an architectural gem. But when something has been developed as sensitively as the Genesis VS has, it represents a real step forward and provides a genuine alternative to traditional timber.

So if you need to look at replacing timber sliding sashes, remember that there is an alternative. Genesis VS – accept no other imitation

Visit Website: www.bison.co.uk

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