How to Measure and Order Custom Storm Windows for Historic Homes
Don’t let clunky or poorly sized storms ruin your restoration. This guide walks you through how to properly measure and order custom storm windows for historic homes—preserving beauty, improving performance, and avoiding costly mistakes. Get it right the first time.
DIY Tools of the Trade – Essential Gear for Historic Window Restoration
You can’t restore a 100-year-old window with a butter knife. This guide covers the essential tools pros and serious DIYers use to strip paint safely, reglaze properly, and restore historic sashes without damage. Whether you’re working on a bungalow or brownstone, the right tools matter.
Window Trim Profiles – Reading a Window’s History in Its Woodwork
Window trim isn’t just decorative—it’s architectural DNA. Learn how to decode your home’s era and style through interior and exterior trim profiles, and how Austin Historical restores or replicates them with expert precision.
When to Remove and Rebuild a Window Frame
Historic window frames are often overlooked until it's too late. In this blog, we break down the signs of structural damage, rot, or poor retrofits that signal it’s time to rebuild—and how Austin Historical approaches custom frame restoration to preserve both beauty and function.
When to Repair vs. Rebuild a Window – What the Experts Look For
Not every historic window needs to be rebuilt.
Learn how preservation experts evaluate original wood windows to determine when repair is the best option—and when a full sash rebuild is truly necessary. This guide explains what to look for, why old‑growth wood matters, and how the right decision can preserve both your home’s character and long‑term performance.
How to Identify Rot in Wood Windows (Before It’s Too Late)
Rot is the silent destroyer of historic windows—but if you catch it early, you can avoid major rebuilds. Learn how to identify early warning signs, the best tools and treatments, and how Austin Historical restores wood windows with lasting results. Sometimes you best historic window solution is to repair a sash but sometimes it needs to be replicated.
Storm Window Myths Busted – What They Actually Do (and Don’t Do)
Are storm windows really worth it for historic homes? In this myth-busting post, we explore five common misconceptions—from appearance and insulation to installation and moisture concerns. Learn what storm windows actually do and how they protect your home while preserving its charm.
Sash Cords, Chains & Weights – Understanding Counterbalance Systems
Ever had a historic window slam shut unexpectedly? That’s likely a broken sash cord. In this post, we break down how sash cords, chains, and counterweights work—and how to restore them. Whether you're a DIYer or just curious, this guide will help you appreciate the elegant mechanics behind old double-hung windows.