Antique Window Restoration for Historic Homes | Demers Glass

Restoring antique windows is a meaningful and strategic investment for homeowners who want to honor the legacy of their homes while also making them more livable, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible. As one of Arizona’s most trusted names in custom glass since 1977, Demers Glass is proud to support homeowners embracing the popular “hipstoric” trend, a style that thoughtfully blends historic character with contemporary comfort.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about antique window renovation, including why it matters, how to do it properly, and what modern enhancements you can make without compromising original charm. Whether you are preserving century-old wood sash windows or retrofitting your home for better performance, this article provides the professional guidance and trusted advice you need to get the job done right.

Historic wood windows are often built from old-growth lumber, which is naturally dense, weather-resistant, and significantly more durable than many materials used in modern window construction. These windows were made to last, and many of them already have with proper care for over 100 years.

The Quality Advantage

This kind of craftsmanship is rarely replicated in today’s mass-produced windows. According to This Old House, properly restored historic windows can last another 100 years with minimal intervention.

Environmental and Financial Benefits

Replacing windows is not only costly, but it also introduces new materials that often require more energy to produce and transport. By preserving and restoring your existing windows, you are:

• Reducing landfill wast.
• Avoiding unnecessary carbon emissions from manufacturing
• Saving on the high cost of full-frame window replacements

Homeowners looking for smart investments in sustainability can also explore our expert guide on energy-efficient windows.

Maintaining Historic and Visual Integrity

Old windows have character. From true divided lights to the unmistakable charm of wavy glass, these features are difficult if not impossible to duplicate. If your home is listed in a historic registry or located in a historic district, preservation may even be required by local building codes or preservation societies.

Looking for guidance on how this fits within broader trends? Explore our breakdown of the hipstoric home movement.

Before starting your restoration project, conduct a detailed inspection of each window. The goal is to assess the extent of wear or damage to determine what can be preserved, what needs to be repaired, and what, if anything, needs to be replaced.

Key Areas to Examine

1. Wood Integrity: Use a screwdriver to probe the wood. Soft or crumbling areas may indicate rot.
2. Glazing Condition: Check for cracked or missing glazing putty that holds the glass in place.
3. Glass: Look for cracked or missing panes. Many old windows used single-pane glass, which can be delicate.
4. Paint: If the paint is chipping or peeling, it could expose the wood to moisture or reveal lead-based coatings.
5. Hardware: Test the sash cords, locks, and pulleys for function and corrosion.

If you discover signs of serious wood deterioration or structural failure, you may want to consult a professional. However, even damaged sashes can often be repaired using epoxy or wood replacement techniques, as detailed by The Craftsman Blog.

Whether you choose to DIY or hire a restoration expert, the following are core steps typically involved in revitalizing antique windows.

Step 1: Remove the Window Sash

Begin by carefully removing the sash from the frame. This allows for full access to all sides of the window and makes repair work easier and safer.

Step 2: Strip Paint and Glazing

Use a heat gun or infrared paint remover to soften old layers of paint and glazing putty. Scrape carefully to avoid damaging the wood underneath. If lead paint is present, follow EPA guidelines for safe removal.

Step 3: Repair the Wood

Use wood epoxy or consolidation techniques to restore soft or rotted areas. Replace missing or irreparable muntins, rails, or stiles using wood species similar to the original construction.

Need to understand what types of glass work best in restoration projects? Check out our guide on selecting the best glass for your windows.

Step 4: Reglaze the Window

Reinstall the original glass or fit new panes as needed. Apply linseed oil putty for a traditional look and weather protection. Allow sufficient curing time before priming and painting.

Step 5: Add Weatherstripping

Install bronze, foam, or rubber weatherstripping to reduce air infiltration and improve efficiency.

Step 6: Repaint and Reinstall

Use high-quality exterior-grade paint in a historically accurate color if required. Once dry, reinstall the sash and test for ease of operation.

These windows create an insulating air gap that significantly reduces heat transfer, wind infiltration, and outside noise.

Types of Storm Windows

• Interior Storm Windows: Ideal for historic homes, easy to remove and clean.
• Exterior Storm Windows: Permanent or seasonal units mounted outside the existing window.
• Low-E Storm Windows: Feature a low-emissivity coating for enhanced thermal performance.

According to Energy.gov, well-fitted storm windows can reduce heat loss by 10 to 30 percent annually.

Thinking of storm door options as well? See our guide to the pros and cons of storm doors.

At Demers Glass, we understand the importance of blending classic aesthetics with modern comfort. Fortunately, you do not have to choose between the two. When you combine proper restoration with strategic upgrades like weatherstripping and storm windows, your antique windows can meet today's energy standards.

Consider also upgrading with insulated glass if historical accuracy is not a primary concern. This offers excellent performance in hot Arizona summers and cool desert nights.

While we advocate for restoration where possible, some situations call for full replacement:

• Extensive wood rot throughout sash and frame
• Irreparable structural issues
• Modern safety requirements not met
• Multiple broken panes with incompatible sizes

If you need a full upgrade, we also provide expert insights on whole house window replacement and glass replacement options in Arizona.

1. Using Inappropriate Materials: Avoid modern caulks or glues that can trap moisture.
2. Skipping Lead Paint Testing: Always test for lead if your home was built before 1978.
3. Over-sanding the Wood: Preserve original profiles and details where possible.
   Painting Shut the Window: Paint only after reinstallation and testing movement.
4. Poor Glazing Technique: Improper application can lead to water infiltration and damage.

Since 1977, Demers Glass has been a trusted name in high-quality glass solutions across Arizona. Our reputation is built on precision, craftsmanship, and a customer-first mindset that respects the history of your home while preparing it for the future.

Whether you are restoring a few decorative windows or retrofitting an entire historic property, we offer custom consultations and product recommendations that balance heritage with modern convenience.

Ready to explore your window options? Learn more about how to choose energy-saving solutions for your home.

Renovating antique windows is more than a cosmetic upgrade it is a respectful tribute to architectural history and a smart, sustainable investment in your home’s value and comfort. With proper restoration and smart additions like storm windows or insulated glass, you can enjoy the timeless elegance of historic design with the efficiency of 21st-century technology.

For nearly five decades, Demers Glass has helped Arizona homeowners protect, preserve, and enhance their most valuable asset, their homes. If you are considering a window restoration project or need expert advice, contact our team today to schedule a consultation.

Further Reading

• Best Glass for Your Home Windows: Comprehensive Q&A
• Everything You Need to Know About Energy-Efficient Windows
• Getting a Window Glass Replacement in Arizona
• Whole House Window Replacement: What You Should Know