Heritage Restoration
"Authentic restoration, timeless craftsmanship"
​Restoring period woodwork is a deeply rewarding process. At East Sussex Restoration, a dedicated service of East Sussex Carpentry, we take pride in working closely with our clients to ensure every project is carried out sympathetically and in full compliance with the property’s period.
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Owning a period property should feel like a privilege, not a burden. We understand the complexities of maintaining historic buildings, which is why we provide a comprehensive range of restoration, conservation, and preservation services designed to protect our national heritage.
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Authenticity lies at the heart of our work. By drawing on our extensive network of trusted suppliers and heritage consultants, we deliver a tailored, end‑to‑end service that respects the character of each property while safeguarding its longevity for future generations.
PERSONAl APPROACH
OUR RESTORATION PROCESS
We follow a clear and proven process to uncover the hidden truth behind period woodwork. To expose faults, we first strip back decades of poor decisions and unsuitable materials that may have contributed to deterioration.
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Preservation begins with authenticity. Many issues stem from the use of contemporary products that are incompatible with historic properties. That’s why we only work with materials true to the period and apply traditional methods to reinstate the natural integrity of heritage woodwork.
Our process starts with a thorough assessment and consultation to define all specifications for the work and materials required. In the final stages, all existing paint—including hazardous lead paint—is carefully removed. Essential repairs are then carried out using the finest materials and practices, ensuring the restoration is both sympathetic and durable.
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After a short curing period, we begin refinishing and applying the final finish before installation. Quality restoration cannot be rushed; natural materials and the British climate demand patience. Yet once complete, the results are built to last—preserving the character of your property for generations to come.
Repairs & Maintenance
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Essential repairs and restoration can be carried out in situ or completed off site, depending on the specific requirements of the project. We offer a flexible range of options to ensure the process is convenient and tailored to your needs.
To help protect your property long-term, we also provide ongoing annual maintenance services, giving clients peace of mind that their period woodwork and bespoke joinery will remain in excellent condition for years to come.
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Services include:
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Period Woodwork Restoration – repairing, replicating, and reinstating original features with traditional methods.
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Grade-Listed Property Projects – sympathetic restoration in compliance with heritage regulations.
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Conservation & Preservation – protecting historic features to ensure longevity and authenticity.
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Structural Repairs – addressing damage caused by age, poor materials, or previous alterations.
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Paint & Finish Removal – safe removal of existing coatings, including hazardous lead paint.
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Authentic Material Sourcing – using timber and finishes true to the property’s period.
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Custom Joinery for Heritage Buildings – bespoke doors, windows, staircases, and fittings crafted to match original designs.
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Consultation & Assessment – detailed surveys to define specifications, materials, and methods before work begins.
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End-to-End Project Management – working with heritage consultants and suppliers to deliver tailored restoration solutions.
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Refinishing & Final Installation – applying traditional finishes and reinstating restored features with care.
Catsfield, East Sussex – November 2024
Grade II Listed Sash Window Restoration
This project involved the repair and restoration of early 18th-century sash windows in a Grade II listed property. Our process included the full restoration of both the top and bottom sashes, the surrounding frame, and the installation of a new oak sill to ensure structural integrity.The original period glass was carefully removed, preserved, and reinstalled to maintain authenticity. All existing lead paint was meticulously stripped away before refinishing with traditional linseed paint, ensuring a sympathetic and historically accurate finish.To complete the restoration, we repaired and polished the original brass fasteners, reinstating their function and enhancing the window’s authentic character. The result is a beautifully restored sash window that respects the property’s heritage while ensuring durability for years to come.
“Crafting the future, preserving the past.”