Conservator approval and unique Denkmalschutz windows – Case Study Marcin Zakrzewski

Who have we helped with importing windows from Poland?

Mr. Marcin has been working in the construction industry for 10 years, and his team today consists of 16 people. He deals with investments that require specialist knowledge and the best components. Usually, these are comprehensive implementations based on cooperation with conservators of monuments.

The joinery he needs are the same windows that were produced and installed even 350 years ago. In addition to the renovation of residential buildings, the company also adapts historic barns, creates exclusive apartments with a unique atmosphere and history. Currently, debesto.com with Mr. Marcin is entering the fourth year of cooperation.

The challenge

The owner of the company was looking for a new supplier for Denkmalschutz windows. What he cared most about was a short deadline and a high level of execution. The specificity of working on this type of project assumes great flexibility and little time for the production of windows. All thanks to complex conservation consultations and the adaptation of windows to the installation conditions in the facility.

These windows are a product that is difficult to find on the market. They must be made entirely by artisans. An important stage of order fulfillment for this type of project is the proper protection of windows for transport. Although they are solid wooden structures, thanks to the use of natural materials and non-standard dimensions, they are much more susceptible to scratches and damage.

Solution found

Market research

Senior sales manager Zofia Stanowska made sure to meticulously collect all the guidelines indicated in the documents prepared by the conservator. All this to maintain the relevant standards and to recreate the windows that were previously installed in the building.

Often, Denkmalschutz windows are compared to renovation windows. The difference is that in Denkmalschutz windows you need to use technologies that are a reconstruction of old dimensions and a stucco work. The biggest difference is the use of the right components and technology. Today, this type of work is performed only by craftsmen, which significantly affects the time of implementation. Therefore, Zofia had to find a dedicated supplier who uses the best materials and has the shortest production time.

Presentation of the optimal variant

Zofia decided that when configuring Denkmalschutz it is important to match the optimal glazing unit to the frame. All this to ensure that the building has adequate ventilation and maximum thermal insulation. In the past, only single panes were used. Today, it is possible to use double-glazed units, but it all depends on the thickness of the frame and conservation guidelines.

The next stage was the selection of components and accessories that will allow to reproduce the historic structures. The fittings used in this project had to be as simple as possible, and the handles were hand-carved to be identical to those produced 300 years ago.

Before starting the production of all windows, a demonstration window was made, which was the first to be sent to the conservator of monuments, to accept the solutions applied and confirm all adjustments. After approval, the entire order could be completed with the certainty that the product would meet all legal requirements.

What has the client gained?

• access to a hard-to-find product on the market: real Denkmalschutz windows.
• Elimination of the risk that the windows will not pass the conservator’s inspection – preparation of a demonstration window
• perfect protection of the delivery of the product susceptible to damage
• he saved a week of working time that he could devote to doing his duties and earning money
• savings of PLN 10,000