So I have a Four Square Victorian built in 1903. The double hung windows are original and when you stand next to them in the winter, you might as well be standing knee deep in the snow. I want to replace them, but want to try and keep the original look. They leak, do not operate well, and have about 54 layers of paint. I thought about rehabing them, but they are not worth it.
Any of you ever had good luck with replacement wood windows that have a old look to them?
Just so you know a little about my program: Once I buy these, they will be “aged” in my garage for a period of at least 3 months till I get around to it. I will put one in every two weeks or so, which should maybe get it done by next winter. I will probably not get the trim back up for a year or so after that. I am not lazy, but have another job, and if it nice out, i will go ride the bike around the mountains of colorado. I do own a small roof rack company www.rockymounts.com so if you guys have any rack questions, i got your back.
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Marvin makes all wood replacement windows and wood replacements with clad exteriors:
http://www.marvin.com/?page=Replacement
They also make a variety of double hung complete window units, if the sill or jambs are in bad shape:
http://www.marvin.com/?page=Double_Hung
They make the windows custom sized for your openings and seem to have the best combination of quality and service in the business.
Lots o companies have a traditioinal window.
Anderson and Weathershield both do, I know.
There are 2 types if you are looking for divided lites. (separate panes)
You can get a TDL or true divided lite which is individual double pane panels in each sash----$$$$$$$$ (That 8 dollar signs)
or you can get SDL which is one double pane window in each sash and then they glue a wood mull to the out side and inside of the glass to make it appear like a true divided lite sash ----$$$$$ (Thats 5 $ signs)
Both are really expensive but a great look.
The advantage of SDL is if you dont have overhangs and the windows get hammered by the weather, the paint must stay perfect or the sash can decay pretty quickly. (I've seen under 10 years)
The SDL's are much more forgiving from what I have seen thought they still need to be properly maintained.
I'd use SDL if I needed the look.
Have you looked into Bi Glass? It's a national franchise that rebuilds old sashes, using modern glazing, etc. It's an excellent option for historic windows that have any value, and similar in cost to high-end replacements. Not sure if there is a dealer in your area but you can check it out at http://www.bi-glass.com