[MassHistPres] Like kind windows

[jworden at swwalaw.com]

Nancy,Contractors typically want to replace windows because it's easier, and they can buy them for x dollars & sell them to the homeowner for 2x dollars.  When someone wants to replace windows, we first ask if the owner has looked into repairing rather than replacing - which often turns out to be no more (sometimes less) expensive, and you get a  better product because old wood is so much better than what they have now.  After getting caught once (promised wood windows, got wood clad with aluminum), we are very careful to say no clad, no composite, no vinyl.  The only exceptions are basement windows exposed to dirt and moisture.Good wood windows in historic designs are available - one of my sons, who lives in an 1819 house, just got some.John WordenArlington Historic District Commissions



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