... then it probably can't be maintained.
There have been numerous articles, blogs and comments on this subject. Barbara Campagna, Director of Architecture for the National Trust’s 29 historic sites, wrote
in Preservation Nation, the newsletter for the National Trust For Historic Preservation , a ‘tirade’ (her words) on Vinyl Replacement Windows. I suggest anyone contemplating an historic window replacement read the article.Of particular interest is a comment in the article by Mike Jackson (Chief Architect of the Illinois State Historic Preservation Office); in which he characterizes replacement windows touting ‘no maintenance' as:
“No Maintenance
required” really means
“can’t be repaired” – so they end up in the
landfill much sooner than say a wood window
which can be repaired and repaired and repaired, or recycled.”
If a new custom finished, hardwood window, with true divided light (not simulated)insulating glass, and the same details, appearance and function as the original, was available, and it provided energy efficiency, easy maintenance and a useful life longer than that of the original, wouldn’t it be worth considering?
“can’t be repaired” – so they end up in the
landfill much sooner than say a wood window
which can be repaired and repaired and repaired, or recycled.”
If a new custom finished, hardwood window, with true divided light (not simulated)insulating glass, and the same details, appearance and function as the original, was available, and it provided energy efficiency, easy maintenance and a useful life longer than that of the original, wouldn’t it be worth considering?
If you purchase a window with a ‘no maintenance’ moniker designed to last for 20 years and compare it to the cost of a more expensive landmark historic wood window designed to last for 100 years or more with efficiently planned maintenance, what cost/benefit considerations come to mind? How many times can you afford to replace a ‘no maintenance window’ and still remain true to the landmark historic details of a property on the historic register?
...read more
Now I know what "Maintenance Free" actually is.
ReplyDeletewindows Portland OR
I agree with you to some extent and I really liked the way you explained it. But this is not all. Wooden windows requires too much maintenance. Now a days no one has time to paint them or repair them every other year. Vinyl windows are an alternative. At the end it depends on choice and personal preference. argument is never ending. Each of them has flaws and benefits. I choose vinyl or UPVC windows for my client's conservatories.
ReplyDeleteRe: "no one has time to paint them or repair them every other year."
ReplyDeleteBut you won't have to repaint a Woodstone window, or repair it, “every other year”. You may want to repaint it from time to time; the typical Woodstone finish paint warranty is 25 years, just about the time you may find that you have to replace the vinyl window.
And then, when the vinyl window must be replaced a second time, the owner will still only have to repaint the original Woodstone window to make it look like new.
Re-Paint or Replace – that’s your choice.
This is not the case every time. It simply depends on the type of damage caused. Suppose if the hinge comes out it can definitely be repaired but if you mesh up with the glass or the body itself. Then that is something you cant repair.
ReplyDeleteThere are always unique (and infrequent) circumstances to consider.
DeleteSuppose your window doesn't have hinges? The point we're making is, if you buy a so-called 'maintenance free' window, it's not designed to be maintained. When it's useful life is over (read the warranty), it goes to a land-fill and you have a significant installation project.
On the other hand, for example, with a Woodstone window, after 20 years you can repaint the unit, after 20 years you can replace the Insulating Glass, and so on.
We often replace windows that are more than 100 years old and we build them better today than they were built then. When you properly maintain a Woodstone window, there’s no reason it won't last for more than 100 years too. Unless, of course, the building in which the window is installed burns to the ground – another unique and, hopefully, infrequent circumstance.
When you’re buying windows, consider the application. If it’s historic, a landmark , or an otherwise important building; if you’re matching profiles, sizes and finishes; if you’re investing a significant effort (including $$$) in the process; you want a window that will give you a return on your investment. Maintaining a window is a lot less expensive than replacing it several times.
Consider your home – you install new windows, you live there for 20 years. When you decide to sell it, does the potential buyer want to consider a window replacement project along with the deal or know they have at least another 80 years of useful life from the windows and doors in it?
As I read through this post it makes me concern for those customers experiencing like this problem. We should be aware be sure that the agreement will be done like window replacement houston on some houses offered.
ReplyDeleteThe Houston Window Replacement site is interesting Tamara. Thanks for the reference. However, I do note that there is little information on actual maintenance practices and warranty terms on the site.
DeleteFor example, how does one go about replacing a piece of broken glass in a multilite window?