Why Repair, Not Replace: The Value of Restoring Historic Wood Windows

Original windows are worth saving. Here’s why...

Most homeowners don’t realize their original wood windows were built to last centuries, not decades. At Heartwood Window Restoration, we specialize in preserving these architectural assets, and here’s why we recommend repairing rather than replacing.

YOU APPRECIATE GOOD CRAFTSMANSHIP

The true mortise and tenon construction of antique windows is incredibly strong and even when it begins to weaken it is easily repaired. Antique windows were built to last and to be repaired indefinitely. Not to become landfill.

YOU THINK A WARRANTY SHOULD BE MORE THAN 20 YEARS

Chances are your windows have done their job for eighty or more years already. Sure, they may be a little creaky and may not be as attractive as they once were, but it's a far better investment to repair a proven performer than to sink money into a new window that only has a 20 year warranty at best. With proper maintenance your antique windows will last for generations to come.

WINDOWS ARE A FUNCTIONAL PART OF YOUR HOUSE

Weights and pulleys are the best balance systems ever invented. You can't believe how joyful it is to open and close windows easily with one hand when everything is restored to the way it was designed to work!

GREENEST BUILDING IS ONE THAT IS ALREADY BUILT

Replacement windows are touted as a way to save energy but if the total energy of expenditure to manufacture replacements is considered, then the break-even point stretches to 40-60 years. “We can't build our way out of the global warming crisis. We have to conserve our way out. That means we have to make better, wiser use of what we already have built.” - Richard Moe, President of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Ready to Restore?

If you're in the San Diego area and own a historic or vintage home, we’d love to help. Contact us for a consultation or browse our services page.