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Preserving History: Expert Historic Window and Door Repair & Restoration Services
Windows and doors are essential architectural elements that define the character of historic homes and buildings. These features not only contribute to the aesthetic charm but also serve as functional and structural components. However, over time, historic windows and doors can suffer from decay, weather damage, and mechanical wear, putting both their beauty and functionality at risk.
At Artan Window Solutions, we specialize in historic window and door repair and restoration, helping homeowners and property managers preserve the unique character of their buildings while improving energy efficiency and security.
Why Preserving Historic Windows and Doors Matters
Historic properties hold significant architectural and cultural value. Unlike modern construction, historic buildings often feature custom millwork, hand-crafted windows, and ornamental doors that are impossible to replicate with mass-produced materials. Proper restoration is vital because:
✔ Original materials and craftsmanship add unique value and appeal to historic homes.
✔ Well-preserved historic windows and doors maintain property value and authenticity.
✔ Many replacement products cannot match the design, proportion, or detail of original elements.
✔ Restoring instead of replacing is often more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Common Problems with Historic Windows and Doors
1. Wood Rot and Moisture Damage
Wooden windows and doors in older homes are prone to rot and decay due to years of exposure to moisture. You may notice soft spots, crumbling wood, and areas where paint is peeling. Left untreated, these can compromise the structural integrity of the frame.
2. Cracks, Gaps, and Warping
Over time, wood can warp, crack, and separate due to seasonal temperature changes, leading to air leaks, drafts, and poor insulation. Warping also makes doors and windows difficult to operate.
3. Broken or Missing Original Hardware
Many historic windows and doors feature unique, antique hardware such as locks, latches, handles, and hinges. These parts can become rusted, broken, or lost over time, reducing both function and security.
4. Damaged Glass, Including Stained and Leaded Glass
Original stained or leaded glass panels, often found in historic doors and windows, are prone to cracking or loosening due to aging of the lead came or glass itself. Replacing them with modern glass would destroy the historical integrity of the feature.
5. Poor Energy Efficiency and Drafts
Historic windows and doors often lack modern insulation and may have gaps that let air and moisture inside, increasing heating and cooling costs. However, energy efficiency can be restored without replacing original elements.
Our Historic Window and Door Repair & Restoration Services
At Artan Window Solutions, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to the specific needs of historic properties. Our goal is to preserve the beauty and craftsmanship of original elements while improving functionality and efficiency.
1. Wood Frame Repair and Restoration
- Replacing rotted or damaged wood sections with carefully matched materials.
- Treating and reinforcing original wood to prevent future damage.
- Recreating historic profiles and moldings to maintain authenticity.
2. Historic Hardware Repair and Replacement
- Restoring original hinges, locks, and handles for continued use.
- Sourcing or replicating antique hardware when replacements are necessary.
- Ensuring full functionality and improved security with modern safety enhancements, if needed.
3. Glass Repair and Replacement (Including Stained and Leaded Glass)
- Repairing cracked glass and damaged lead came in stained-glass windows.
- Installing historically appropriate replacement glass when necessary (wavy glass, mouth-blown panes).
- Sealing and reinforcing glass panels for longevity and insulation.
Why Choose Artan Window Solutions for Historic Restoration?
Choosing the right company for historic restoration is crucial to maintaining the integrity and value of your property. Here’s why homeowners trust Artan Window Solutions:
🔹 Extensive experience working with historic homes and buildings.
🔹 Commitment to preserving original materials and designs.
🔹 Use of specialized techniques that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.
🔹 Eco-friendly approach that prioritizes restoration over replacement.
🔹 High-quality materials and expert artisans to ensure lasting results.
➡️ Learn more about our Historic Window and Door Restoration Services here
Step 1: Detailed Inspection and Assessment
Every project begins with a comprehensive on-site evaluation. Our specialists:
✔ Examine the condition of wood, hardware, and glass.
✔ Identify areas with rot, cracks, and warping.
✔ Assess existing hardware functionality and originality.
✔ Inspect seals, caulking, and areas prone to drafts.
We document each finding and develop a customized restoration plan, always prioritizing preserving as much of the original material as possible.
Step 2: Carefully Removing Damaged Components
When necessary, we gently remove deteriorated or irreparable parts, including:
🔹 Severely rotted wood.
🔹 Broken or missing hardware.
🔹 Damaged panes of stained, leaded, or clear glass.
Our goal is to avoid unnecessary replacement and maintain the integrity of the original design.
Step 3: Repairing and Rebuilding Wood Frames and Sashes
To restore strength and beauty:
✔ We cut and insert new, matching wood sections using traditional joinery techniques.
✔ Consolidate and treat existing wood to strengthen weakened areas.
✔ Preserve or replicate historic moldings, trims, and profiles to match the original design.
Step 4: Glass Restoration and Replacement
For windows with broken or missing glass:
🔹 We repair stained and leaded glass, reinforcing lead cames when possible.
🔹 Replace cracked or missing panes with historically accurate glass, such as wavy or mouth-blown glass.
🔹 Seal glass properly to ensure durability and insulation without altering appearance.
Step 5: Hardware Restoration and Replacement
We restore original hardware when possible and replace missing pieces with reproductions that match the era and style. Services include:
✔ Cleaning, oiling, and repairing hinges, locks, and latches.
✔ Replicating antique hardware when originals are beyond repair.
✔ Ensuring all mechanisms work smoothly and securely.
Step 6: Weatherproofing and Energy Efficiency Enhancements
Although historic windows and doors were not built with modern insulation, we add energy-efficient solutions while respecting their design:
🔹 Install discreet weatherstripping and draft seals.
🔹 Apply new caulking and glazing putty where needed.
🔹 Offer options for energy-efficient glass inserts when appropriate.
Step 7: Finishing Touches and Protective Treatments
Once structural repairs are completed:
✔ We refinish wood surfaces using period-appropriate stains or paints.
✔ Apply UV- and moisture-resistant coatings to extend the life of wood and finishes.
✔ Conduct final alignment and adjustments to ensure smooth operation and a snug fit.
Step 8: Final Walkthrough and Client Approval
Before we complete the job, we:
✅ Review the entire restoration with the client.
✅ Demonstrate functionality and address any final concerns.
✅ Provide maintenance tips for long-term care.
Benefits of Choosing Professional Historic Restoration Over Replacement
- Preserve authentic craftsmanship and design.
- Increase property value by maintaining historic integrity.
- Improve energy efficiency without altering appearance.
- Avoid costly mistakes of inappropriate modern replacements.
- Eco-friendly choice — restoring, not discarding, valuable materials.
Get Professional Historic Window and Door Restoration Today!
Whether you’re restoring a historic home, church, or commercial building, Artan Window Solutions delivers unmatched quality in historic window and door repair and restoration. Trust us to bring your architectural treasures back to life.
➡️ Contact us for a personalized restoration consultation
