This 1909 historic home needed the double hung historic windows rebuilt. They were intersecting the roof that was replaced and after over 100 years of use it became clear that it was time for some repair. Only the windows that were in the prevailing weather needed attention, and the rest that were somewhat more protected were still operating well. This is the beautiful thing about historic windows. They can be repaired and rebuilt, with period material to match exactly with the rest of the home, by a good craftsman with a woodshop. Also, there is no need to repair or rebuild or all the windows, just the ones needing attention. This isn’t the case with modern windows. Often manufactures don’t even make the same window after about 10 years, so it’s almost impossible to match if one decays and needs replacement. Also, they are harder for a craftsman like me to repair or rebuild. So, repairing and rebuilding historic windows is better for the environment, for the craftsman community, and for the homeowner for the long term life of the home.

                  You can see from the photos what it takes to rebuild and install. I try to take meaningful photos of the process of work that show what’s involved. I know to the layman it may look complicated, but I’ve built enough of these, and have the right shop machines in my studio, that it becomes a familiar process. Not only that, but you can see that not all pieces need to be rebuilt, and some preservation of components can save time from having to manufacture them. Also, you can see that I have saved the original pullies and cleaned them up for reuse in the new jambs. This then matches the existing windows, without trying to find new parts to match. With this project I repaired, manufactured, and installed, two double, double hung windows. That means there are two double hung sash windows making one window, because they are mulled together in one jamb. This customer was very happy with the results. If you own a historic, vintage or midcentury modern home in the Pacific North West feel free to contact Westbrook Carpentry & Millwork, I’d be happy to speak with you!