Singin’ the unnecessary window replacement blues

By Nicole von Gaza - 06/08/2008

Photo courtesy of Dick Gibson An example of a modern vinyl window installed in a historic Uptown Butte building is pictured above. To remain true to the integrity of a historic structure, replacement windows should be very similar to the original in wood type, size and detail, preservationists say.

Editor’s note: The following is one of a series of columns to run throughout the summer from the Butte Citizens for Preservation and Revitalization. Topics will concern Butte’s architecture and other topics that relate to its historic buildings.

Whether to repair or replace windows in an historical structure is an ongoing debate.

In the world of window repair, there are three categories: Routine maintenance, stabilization, and parts replacement. Most historic windows can be saved in these ways. Some windows are too deterior-ated to repair and must be replaced. But more often than not, windows that simply need repair are being replaced.

Basic routine maintenance, to restore minor deterioration, can be done by almost anyone. It only requires time and patience. Stabilization involves more skill, building up wood that is decayed. Parts replacement, the most technical of repairs, requires splicing new wood pieces into the existing window.

The issue of window replacement is a touchy one. To remain true to the integrity of an historic structure, replacement windows should be very similar to the original in wood type, size and detail.

It is possible to reproduce such a window, but it requires more time, research and money than purchasing a window replacement made of modern materials.

Easiest remedy not the best Modern replacement windows are generally made of vinyl these days. They are inexpensive and readily available, and touted as “maintenance free.” They are the easiest remedy, but not the best for historic structures.

You need only drive around Uptown to see many examples of beautiful brick buildings with white, vinyl replacement windows. Vinyl cannot be painted, so historic color schemes can no longer include the windows.

Making a commitment to any historic home or building is expensive and time-consuming. Cutting corners will always result in a loss of architectural integrity. Quick and easy window replacement is a boondoggle with disastrous repercussions for historic neighborhoods and districts, including our own.

Takes time; less money We encourage you to work with what you have. Choose your renewable resource that already exists — your wooden windows. It takes more time, but much less money. You will never recoup through energy savings what it will cost you to replace all your windows.

As for the argument that old windows are not energy-efficient, it is untrue. Only 15 to 20 percent of heat loss is due to window glass, be it single or thermo-pane. The real heat loss is due to air gaps around a window, new or old. A weatherized historic single-pane window with a storm window is actually more energy efficient than a new thermo-pane window.

Nicole von Gaza is a member of the Butte Citizens for Preservation and Revitalization and may be reached via e-mail at PreserveButte@aol.com. For details about CPR, visit http://www.buttecpr.org/.