Restoring Old Windows: Costs and Insights
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
1. Average Costs
- DIY Restoration: ~$270 (materials + tools like heat guns).
- Professional Restoration:
- Per Window: $400–$800 (including materials and labor).
- Labor: $40–$75 per hour.
2. Cost Factors
- Window Size: Custom sizes increase costs significantly.
- Extent of Damage:
- Cracked Glass: $3/sq. ft. for DIY, or $40–$75/hr for pro installation.
- Rotted or Broken Trim: Additional materials and labor needed.
- Historical Requirements: Compliance with preservation rules may double costs.
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Adding insulation or storm windows raises expenses.
- Materials: Quality trim, glass, and finishing products impact total cost.
3. Window Lifespan and Value
- Lifespan:
- Modern windows: 20–40 years.
- Historic windows: Can last generations with maintenance.
- ROI: Restoring old windows offers a ~70% return on investment, enhancing home value and energy efficiency.
4. Restoration Scenarios
- When to Restore:
- Broken seals or cracked glass.
- Failing mechanisms or rotting wood.
- Glazing or framing separation.
- Wood vs. Vinyl Windows:
- Wood: Durable, long-lasting with proper care. Vulnerable to rot if neglected.
- Vinyl: Prone to discoloration and brittleness over time; easier to replace but less durable.
5. DIY Restoration Tips
- For Wood Windows:
- Repair rot with fillers, sand, and repaint.
- Install storm windows to improve insulation.
- For Vinyl Windows:
- Clean and repaint with vinyl-specific products.
- Replace damaged frames using custom-cut pieces from hardware stores.
6. When to Hire a Professional
- Complex repairs like sash replacement or extensive rotting.
- Historical preservation compliance.
- Ensuring energy efficiency improvements.
7. Best Time for Restoration
- Ideal Seasons: Late spring or early winter when weather is temperate.
- Preparation:
- Protect your home with plastic sheeting.
- Be ready for open walls during the project.
Restoring old windows not only preserves your home's charm but also improves its functionality and value. Whether you DIY or hire a pro, careful planning ensures the results are worth the effort!
