When historic wood windows require repair, many homeowners assume that it is time to replace all of the windows in the house. This is not only an expensive and disruptive project, but it also begins a long-term replacement cycle that can be easily avoided while saving money, energy, and the environment. However, many homeowners are not fully informed about the issues surrounding replacement windows and repair options. Before deciding to replace the original wood windows in your historic home, consider the following factors for window replacement nyc.

Economical 

When the original wood windows are painted shut, have broken sash cords, broken glass, or a portion of the sash or frame is rotted or damaged, a carpenter can repair the windows for a fraction of the cost of replacement windows. Furthermore, repairing historic wood windows does not necessitate changes to the existing opening framing or the replacement of historic trim, which can add unanticipated costs to your window replacement project.

Longevity

Your wood windows have already served you for 75 years or more and are infinitely repairable with standard carpentry tools. Most modern replacement windows are expected to last 10 to 20 years before the springs fail, the seals fail, and the glass clouds. Because these replacement windows do not have replaceable parts, the entire factory-made unit must be replaced, beginning a cycle of required replacement.

Energy savings

Studies have shown that a historic wood window that is properly maintained, weather-stripped, and equipped with a storm window can be just as energy efficient as a new window. Windows account for only 10-12% of total infiltration through the building envelope. Infiltration occurs much more frequently at roof eaves, foundations, and even through wall receptacles, dryer and plumbing vents, and fireplaces. According to studies, it can take 60 years or more to recoup enough money in energy savings to pay back the cost of installing replacement windows, but by then, the new windows have already failed and had to be replaced several times. Installing storm windows, awnings, operable shutters, or insulating window treatments, as well as adding wall and attic insulation from window replacement nyc, are more cost-effective energy-saving ideas.

Environment 

Americans demolish 200,000 buildings each year, resulting in 124 million tonnes of debris. Every window that enters the dump adds to the problem. Replacing historic windows wastes the embodied energy used to make the original windows and necessitates the use of more energy to produce the new windows. Furthermore, replacement windows made of vinyl or PVC are toxic to produce, emit toxic byproducts, and are not recyclable.

Aesthetics 

The architecturally correct style and proportions for your historic home are the original wood windows on a historic home. Replacing unusual shapes and historic sash patterns frequently necessitates costly custom replacement windows or replacement with a less expensive design. Standard replacement windows frequently have different frame and muntin profiles that are also out of proportion on your historic home. Furthermore, metal and vinyl windows do not hold paint well and are typically stocked in glaring white, which does not complement many historic home styles.

Historic Integrity 

Repairing rather than replacing historic wood windows retains the original historic fabric of your home. Once they are removed, they can never be truly replaced.