Homeowners wishing to avail of grants for the restoration and refurbishment of windows in older conservation properties in Ireland will find all the information they need here.

Timeless Sash Windows are craft contractors specialising in the restoration of historic timber windows. With almost 50 years of expertise, our team will advise you of the options available and assist you with the application as needs be.

On the 5th November 2021, Minister Noonan announced the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Historic Structures Fund for 2022. He noted that 8 million euros is available across the two schemes. Their purpose is to assist homeowners as custodians of our built heritage for future generations.

Today, Minister @noonan_malcolm launches the Built Heritage Investment Scheme & the Historic Structures Fund for 2022! €8m in funding is available across both schemes next year – an increase of €2 million from 2021 #BHIS #HSF pic.twitter.com/Q82hCwPysS

— Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage (@DeptHousingIRL) November 5, 2021

How to apply for grants for windows in Ireland under the scheme

You will need to apply through your local county council.

Also you should note that the closing date for applications is Monday 31^st January 2022.

Furthermore, to be eligible, property must be one of the following:

1. A protected structure
2. In a zone of ACA (architectural conservation area)
3. Proposed protected structure

Criteria for Application Assessment

1. Significance of the Structure

2. Efficacy of the Works

Applicants should explain how the amount of funding sought demonstrates value for money and makes a significant contribution to eliminating risks and preventing further deterioration of the structure, thus ensuring its survival into the future.

3. Employment Benefits

The value of job creation for the particular project should also be taken into consideration including the estimated total number of days of employment. Reports on projects which include training should give an outline description of the nature, extent, level and number of training days.

4. Quality of Works Proposed

Conservation works must be designed, specified and overseen on site by appropriately qualified and experienced building conservation professional(s) who will be required to confirm that works have been carried out to a satisfactory standard. Where the specific expertise lies with a practitioner, e.g. a thatcher or stone mason, they fulfil the role of the conservation building professional.

Funding Amounts

The minimum funding awarded for successful projects will be €2,500 up to a maximum of €15,000. (routine maintenance up to 2,500 euros)

Moreover, funding will not exceed more than 50% of the total cost.

How to apply

You should apply initially using Form A. Then you must subsequently submit Form B at regular intervals during the work. We will need to advise you how many days work for our craftsmen as part of your application. Additionally, you will need to record the progress with before and after photographs.

The craftspeople must begin work by 16^th September 2022 and complete in the calendar year.

To view the application form on the Meath coco website click here.

Qualifying Works to Windows

1. Repairs to external joinery

Works to prevent water ingress

Repairs to significant elements of external joinery such as windows, doors and associated elements, with minimal replacement of decayed timber and appropriate selection and detailing of new sections.

Salvage and reuse of historic glass should be prioritised.

Draught-proofing works to windows and doors in accordance with the Advice Series may qualify.

• Stained glass

Repairs to stained glass windows Repair of stained glass panels and associated fittings, and the installation of wire guards or repositioning of panels within isothermal glazing, should be carried out in accordance with Chapter 6 of The Conservation of Places of Worship (Advice Series, 2011)

• Works to increase the thermal performance and energy efficiency of the building in line with the relevant Advice Series guidance

In order to qualify the works must be appropriately detailed, using materials appropriate for use in an historic building, and specified by a qualified conservation professional. The building must be in good repair and well-maintained.

Qualifying energy efficiency works may include:

• Draught-proofing of windows, doors and other openings
• Repair and upgrading of historic window shutters
• Installation of appropriately detailed secondary glazing

Works that Do Not Qualify

External joinery:

• The fitting of double-glazed units, including slim-profile double glazed units and vacuum sealed units, into the existing or new sashes or casements
• The fitting of storm glazing
• The replacement of historic glass with energy-efficient glass

Full information here .

Download a PDF guide from gov.ie here.