Thinking About Replacing your Historic Windows? Read This First!

Read time: 5 minutes

By Evan Massey

Historic Restoration Specialist & Cabinetmaker (@andressmasseymillwork)

Historic windows are an important part of a home's architectural character and charm. Unfortunately, many homeowners are quick to replace them with modern windows, thinking that this will improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. However, restoring historic windows can actually be a better choice. Here are four reasons why.

Preserving Your Home's Character

One of the main reasons to restore historic windows is to preserve the character and architectural integrity of your home. Historic windows were designed to fit the style of the home and often have unique details and features that cannot be replicated with modern windows. Replacing them can significantly alter the appearance of the home and detract from its historic charm.

Environmental Considerations

Another important consideration is the environmental impact of replacing windows. While modern windows may be marginally more energy-efficient (note: it takes about 80 years for a modern window to pay for itself in terms of energy savings), they are often made of materials that are not environmentally friendly (i.e., plastics) and require a significant amount of energy to manufacture. Restoring historic windows can be a more sustainable option, as it preserves existing materials and reduces the carbon foot print through the near exclusive use of renewable materials (e.g., linseed oil paint, wood, and glazing).

Cost Savings

Restoring historic windows can also be a cost-effective solution. While modern windows may seem like a good investment in the short term, they are not significantly more efficient than a well weather-stripped historic window, and often require more frequent replacement over time. Modern windows made with a butyl seal (most common manufacturing technique for multi-pane windows) typically last about 20 years, at which point the seal becomes compromised and the window’s energy efficiency rating no longer holds (you’ll know this has happened when your windows begin to condensate in colder or very warm weather). It’s likely you’ll be replacing your modern windows around the same time your historic windows require any professional maintenance at all.

Historic windows were built to last and can be restored to their original condition with proper care and maintenance. For example, traditional glazing, the putty around the window panes, is meant to be repaired (about every 30 years) rather than replaced, and depending on the species, wood can last hundreds of years, as seen in many European homes. Paint fails much faster (in about 10-15 years depending on paint quality) but can often be repaired by the homeowner themselves. While a modern window costs about $2000 to purchase and install, fully restoring a historic window with significant weather damage costs between $1200-$2000, labour included (note: all historic windows are slightly different - this is a ballpark estimate based on restorations we’ve completed to date). In the long run, restoring historic windows can save homeowners money and reduce their carbon footprint.

Preserving History

Finally, restoring historic windows is an important way to preserve history. For example, glass is no longer manufactured as it was a hundred years ago, and it is nearly impossible to purchase this type of glass today.

Historic windows are part of the cultural heritage of a community and represent a time when craftsmanship and attention to detail were highly valued. By preserving these windows, homeowners can help to maintain the unique character of their neighbourhood and contribute to the larger historical narrative of their community.

If you’re interested in preserving the character of your home, and in making an environmentally conscious and cost-effective choice, consider restoring your historic windows rather than replacing them. We have the knowledge and experience to preserve the architectural integrity of your home and community – contact us to get started.