What To Do About Historic Windows?

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There is a well acknowledged, and sometimes heated, debate about replacement vs. restoration of historic windows. There is also a lot of mis-information about. What to do with those old drafty windows? The next three blogs will deal with some current information that will address some misconceptions about the proper approach.

1. REPLACEMENT WINDOW MANUFACTURERS may may offer the option of reusing existing frames & replacing just the sash at a more economical cost.

Not quite true . . . as the whole window assembly determines the performance. Infiltration through a window occurs in many locations, not just the sash. Reusing an existing frame that is not tight, within a wall system that leaks, will not solve the problem that existed. Any window system -- old or new -- must be a part of a weather-tight system from the sash to the walls.

Several independent studies have shown that windows contribute only 10 to 12 % of over all infltration into the building. A much higher percentage of "leaks" occur at roof eaves, foundations, wall receptacles, dryer & plumbing vents and fireplaces. So the replacement of the sash alone is not the solution . . .

The support for restoration, and it is reported a virtual watershed of support, comes mostly from various states, historical commissions & preservtionists across North America. Historic wood windows have been called an "endangered species".

Supporting window replacement are, of course, window manufacturers. They have sought to develop standards that would demonstrate their products' effectiveness in a format that would allow consumers to better compare replacement vs. restoration.

Sustainability -- all of us today are looking for best answers. What is really the best route to achieve sustainability? Lets explore this a bit. Again, contact me at jancy@jancycampbell.com with your thoughts.