If your home’s old wooden windows are looking worse for wear, you might initially presume that replacing them is your only way forward. While replacement is certainly an option, it should only be considered as a last resort when it comes to wood window frames, for various aesthetic and financial reasons. Before going to extremes, keep these five facts in mind;
Fact 1: Original Wooden Windows Add Value to Your Home
Old wooden window frames were manufactured from high quality, long-lasting wood, the likes of which is hard to find today at affordable prices. Your property’s value will decrease if you remove these original fixtures. Not only are they sturdy and long-lasting, they are stylish and easy on the eyes. It is quite possible to repair the windows and replace sections where needed, allowing you to retain your home’s vintage look. This is the best way forward for any property owner who wants to retain the value of his or her real estate.
Fact 2: Older, Higher Quality Wood is Priceless
Older homes were designed with window frames that were crafted from very valuable cedar or fir wood, which resulted in denser, sturdier timber. These are irreplaceable, and have been found to be the best and most enduring type of windows. You cannot find some of these pieces of wood in the modern market. Modern windows are constructed out of materials which are far inferior, and other materials such and steel and aluminum have far shorter life spans. It is advisable to stay with your old materials and just repair where possible.
Sometimes You Will Need to Replace Them
There will, however, be instances where replacement is highly recommended and shouldn’t be avoided.
Fact 3: Rotten Wood is a Bad Apple
Any signs of rot or water damage need to be addressed immediately. Where untreated wood or withered seals leads to sollen sections and deteriorated frames, this invites all manner of unwanted issues which will become very costly to sort out later on. Rotten sections become moldy which spreads into your home. Gaps allow drafts and insects to enter your home, and once rot sets in it will continue to compromise your windows and seals – becoming that much more expensive to handle later on. Such windows can cause a health hazard in the home and it is advisable to replace them. They can also expose your home to the risk of robbery apart from reducing the value of the asset. In such a case, the best way to enhance the value of your home is by installing modern windows.
Fact 4: Broken Seals Complicate Matters
When seals are broken, repair can be quite tricky, often resulting in smashed window panes due to the insulative gas between the panes causing a vacuum as it meets the air outside. When seals are broken (evident by the condensation between your window panes) it is often advisable to have the professionals address the situation, and – depending on the severity – replacement might be the best course of action. Don’t hesitate to take such an action because repair may end up being costly in the long run.
Fact 5: Not Replacing or Repairing Rotten, Worn or Broken Windows Costs You Money
Windows which are effective in their purpose do not just allow light in, they also play a part in insulating your home and can severely impact your house’s energy-efficiency if they are damaged or deteriorated in any way. When your windows are broken or damaged and allow air to escape, they can push your heating costs up by 10 to 15 percent. Jammed windows or ones with damages seals or condensation will also block the light out, creating a damp and dreary atmosphere and requiring more lighting in your home. Therefore, it is important to make sure that your windows are functioning properly if you want to avoid additional energy costs. It’s wise to put all these facts into consideration before making any replacements on your wooden windows.
