Learn how to repair your wood windows- click here to register for Historic Ithaca’s Hands-On Window Restoration Workshop, June 11, 2011.

The repair and maintenance of your existing windows can save money, energy, and historic resources, in addition to maintaining the historic character of your home.  Properly maintained wood window systems can last for hundreds of years. Before you replace your old windows, please consider the following information.

Do you want to save money on heating and cooling?

Windows account for only 10–20% of heat loss in the average house, but even new windows will contribute to heat loss. The roof is generally the greatest source of energy loss, and the place where a modest investment in insulation will have a far greater payback. By comparing the cost of replacement windows to the expected energy savings, the payback period for replacement windows is often 40-50 years. The lifespan for a typical replacement window is 10-25 years, and when a vinyl window fails, it can’t be repaired as easily as a wood window. Adding storm windows to properly maintained wood windows can also match the energy efficiency of a new window.

Are you concerned about sustainability and your impact on the environment?

Repairing your existing windows is the sustainable choice. Windows built before the 1940s are of higher quality materials and craftsmanship than most new windows available today. By repairing old windows, you keep quality materials out of the waste stream and conserve the embodied energy of the old windows.

The production of vinyl windows creates toxic by-products and uses more resources than repairing existing windows.  Homeowners should also be concerned about the unknown long-term effects of vinyl off gassing.

The investment in window repair is also an investment in the local economy; if you hire a contractor to repair your windows, your money stays in the area instead of going to a national window manufacturer.

Are your windows broken, rotted, rattling or stuck?

Almost every window can be repaired to perfect working order. All parts of old windows were designed to be repaired and replaced as needed. Broken glass can be replaced, rotted rails or muntins can be repaired with epoxy, sash cords can be re-tied or replaced. Many of these repairs will also improve the energy efficiency of the window. Homeowners can easily undertake window repairs after doing some basic research.  Historic Ithaca offers guides to window repair on its website.

Do your windows allow drafts?

Your window may simply need adjustment or basic maintenance. Weatherstripping can reduce drafts from windows; a variety of methods exist, from temporary caulking (such as DAP® SEEL N’ PEEL) to rubber or metal strips. Securing sash locks and installing stop adjuster hardware on sash stops can seal out drafts.  Storm windows will also reduce drafts and increase energy savings. Exterior storms, either wood-framed or triple-track aluminum, save energy and protect the primary sash from weather damage. Window treatments also help keep out winter drafts and summer sun.

Your home will look its best with repaired original windows.

Windows are one of the most significant design features of a building, giving character to both the interior and exterior. Original windows were designed to complement the scale, style, and trim of a building. By replacing windows, you lose the quality wood and millwork, wavy glass, and often reduce the amount of light in the building due to the smaller sash size of replacement windows.

The Finger Lakes area has many contractors who are experienced in the repair and restoration of wood and metal windows. Contact Historic Ithaca at 607-273-6633 for a list of these contractors.

Repair guides, weatherization information and more at:

http://www.historicithaca.org/window-weatherization/