Wood window repair is something all homeowners should consider if they have historic wood windows. Not only is repairing more environmentally friendly, but it is also more economical than full-blown replacement. The preservation of what you already have can also help you maintain the aesthetic of your home, and prevent you from having to painstakingly match old designs. Here are some additional benefits you should consider when it comes to window restoration.
Five Benefits Of Wood Window Repair
- Old Growth Wood. If you own an older home with windows that were made before the 1940s, then it’s a safe assumption that they were made from old-growth wood. This wood, as the name suggests, comes from old trees, and as such is extraordinarily resistant to rot, splintering, and disintegration. Newer windows, on the other hand, are typically constructed from plastic or vinyl which simply aren’t able to match the durability of older constructions.
- Custom Fit. Historic wood windows were constructed specifically to fit them home they were put into. This means that everyone is likely to be slightly different from the next. These windows are also more likely to have shifted and moved along with the aging of the building itself. After a century or so, it’s possible that the gap itself isn’t an exact square anymore. Replacing the window during this state can result in a smaller window overall, wonky proportions, and a trim that doesn’t watch with the opening around it. These issues are something homeowners can prevent by fixing up the windows they have, and enforcing any gaps or cracks that exist.
- Easier Repair. Wood window repair is handy because older windows can be repaired by their individual parts. Each segment can be individually repaired or even replaced if completely broken. This helps maintain as much of the structure as possible, while still shoring up what needs additional support. On the other hand, newer windows are created as an entire unit, if one part breaks the entire piece will need to be taken out and replaced. This can mean a whole new window installation, something no homeowner wants to have to do more than necessary.
- Eco-Friendly. If you want to make your old wood windows more energy-efficient, the addition of weather stripping, along with an exterior or interior storm window, can help you go green for the long haul. This improvement also prevents you from having to utilize new materials, meaning you save energy while helping keep unnecessary waste out of a landfill.
- Authenticity. If you own a historical building, maintaining its original features is important. While windows may seem like a minor thing the grand scope of home renovations, we often underestimate how much of an impact they have on the general aesthetic overall. Replacing historic wood windows with newer constructions can take away from the charm of the home, and even come off as unappealing to potential buyers, should you ever consider selling.
Four Ways To Maintain Your Wood Windows
- Add caulk around the exterior and interior of the window.
- Add weather stripping to better help cut back on energy loss.
- Consider adding storm windows or thermal panels to the exterior or interior.
- Invest in energy saving curtains that can help keep the warm air in during winter, and the hot air out during the summer.
Wood window repair has many benefits when it comes to preserving your home. Not only can it help maintain the authenticity and aesthetic of your home, but it can save you time and money in the long run. Older windows were also constructed with longevity in mind, meaning you’re more likely to have to replace new windows sooner, than you ever would these originals. If your old home’s windows need a touch-up, reach out to a repair service nearby and see what they can do for you!
