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Can these old windows be fixed?

      In a word, yes. If they are present they can be restored. Some reproduction parts and sometimes whole sash replacement will be required but in the main windows of Washington D.C. row houses built after 1870 are excellent candidates for restoration.

      Excepting termite decay and removal of original components for air conditioners the jambs are likely to need only work to the sill and paint stripping. Even if you have bad replacement windows from the last 30 to 40 years you likely have sound jambs under or behind the aluminum or vinyl sleeves. Sash components are more delicate and vulnerable. Often the meeting rail (bottom part of the top sash) is most weak. Its repair or replacement along with epoxy repairs throughout will put the sash ready for another 100 years.

      A good restoration should include three enhancements. Old glass should be steamed out and reset in the restored sash on a modern adhesive sealant to actually enhance the structure of the sash with the glass and provide a secondary seal. The old cotton rope should be replaced with new nylon rope or chain; either will last 100 years and eliminate the only significant flaw in these beautiful old windows. The meeting rails and perimeter of operable sash should be fit for interlocking zinc metal weather stripping. This was the best and most durable solution in the 1880’s and it still is. Most pre World War II houses in Washington had this weather stripping but many don’t and when not present or damaged one has something more like renaissance technology and this should be improved. It can be retrofit and is still available to the trade from a company in Long Island, New York which has been making it since its invention.

     Doing a complete and sound window restoration is not entirely simple and I do not recommend it for a do-it-yourself homeowner. There are nuances to these interesting and working parts of our historic architecture that require special tools, materials and techniques too specialized for even your average carpenter. A good restoration by an experienced firm specializing in this work can be had here in Washington, D.C.  
    

      The cost is generally 50% more expensive than a wholesale replacement with Marvin windows or like units but restoration is much more satisfying in important ways. When these old windows are set right and all the elements are present and fit well they operate significantly better than replacement units. Their parts are fewer and stronger and they don’t leak air. The insulating glass in replacement units are prone to seal failure and fogging and not necessary in our climate when traditionally glazed windows and paired with curtains or shutters.

       The old millwork in your house is well made and in ways irreplaceable. The glass has a texture that is difficult to make again. The dignity of a house whose basic elements are intact is of allusive but significant value to its owner and the culture at large. Respect the good work of those that came before us, do your best to maintain your historic house. Your windows are a very important part of it.