Re: renovation of old windows Some personal experiences -- I have renovated all the windows in two houses. So, that's about 50 or 60 windows. A few more to go. I've gotten very good at it. It really isn't all that difficult. The most difficult part is sometimes removing the painted-in pieces, without destroying them. Once repaired , they should last the rest of your lifetime. You can weatherstrip them so as to be tight. If you pay someone to do the work, it's still cheaper than buying and installing a replacement window.
I have experimented with vinyl windows (3): I am sorry I did. They are going to have to be replaced. The handles became brittle and broke. The screens are very difficult to use. The on-going settlement (tho minor) of the house, shifts the vinyl window panes out of alignment -- they are not structurally solid enough to withstand such forces. Placing a window air conditioner unit in them is also a bit "iffy". I've also experimented with Marvin wood replacement sashes. These are a disaster, and I don't recommend them. The idea is good, but Marvin's design is bad. Maybe another manufacturer's product is better (Pella?). And, they do require white vinyl tracks. The springs on the sashes have broken twice. They are expensive to repair. The sashes will not operate without the springs. I would have been better off with my old windows. Re: appearance of vinyl windows: It's just an opinion, but I agree strongly with Melanie about the ugly contrast of white vinyl against the restored or original natural wood of the surrounding wood frame or other woodwork. It's VERY noticeable, and I've seen many houses like this on house tours or open houses. I always go away thinking about how great the house was, but how unfortunate the windows were, and how much it would cost to bring the windows in line with the rest of the house. To me, and I think I'm typical of most, windows are an extremely significant aspect of the experience of visiting a home, especially an old home. Neil Lifson ---- You are receiving this because you are subscribed to the list named "UnivCity." To unsubscribe or for archive information, see <http://www.purple.com/list.html>.
