Why Restore Historic Windows?
Ottawa's heritage homes—from Sandy Hill Victorian townhouses to Glebe Edwardians and Westboro Arts & Crafts bungalows—feature original wood windows that are often superior in quality to modern replacements. These windows were built from old-growth lumber that's denser, more durable, and more rot-resistant than anything available today.
Restoration makes sense when:
- Your home has heritage designation requiring original elements
- You value the character and craftsmanship of original windows
- The wood frames are structurally sound
- You want to avoid the "replacement window look" on a historic home
- Environmental considerations favour restoration over replacement
Our Heritage Restoration Services
Sash Cord Replacement
Restore smooth operation to counterweight double-hung windows with new cotton or synthetic cords.
Glazing & Putty
Remove failed putty and reglaze with traditional linseed oil putty or modern alternatives.
Wood Repair
Epoxy consolidation and Dutchman repairs for localized rot. Preserve original wood where possible.
Weatherstripping
Add discreet weatherstripping systems designed for historic windows to dramatically reduce drafts.
Storm Windows
Interior or exterior storm windows that protect originals while improving energy performance.
Hardware Restoration
Clean, repair, or replicate original sash locks, lifts, and pulleys.
Glass Replacement
Match historic wavy glass or install energy-efficient options while preserving original sash.
Complete Restoration
Full sash removal, strip, repair, reglaze, weatherstrip, and reinstall for like-new performance.
Heritage Restoration vs. Replacement
| Factor | Restoration | Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Historic character | Preserved | Often lost |
| Wood quality | Old-growth (superior) | New-growth or vinyl |
| Environmental impact | Lower (reuse existing) | Higher (manufacturing, disposal) |
| Heritage compliance | Yes | May not meet requirements |
| Cost per window | Similar or less | Similar or more |
| Lifespan | Another 50-100 years | 20-30 years typical |
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Restored heritage windows can achieve energy performance comparable to modern windows through:
- Weatherstripping: Reduces air infiltration by up to 95%
- Storm windows: Creates insulating air gap, effective R-value doubles
- Low-E storm glass: Adds heat reflection without altering appearance
- Proper glazing: Eliminates gaps around glass panes
Ottawa Neighbourhoods We Serve
We've restored heritage windows throughout Ottawa's historic neighbourhoods:
- • Sandy Hill
- • The Glebe
- • Centretown
- • New Edinburgh
- • Westboro
- • Old Ottawa South
- • Rockcliffe Park
- • Hintonburg
- • And more...
Heritage Designation Considerations
If your property has heritage designation, window changes may require approval. We can help you:
- Understand heritage requirements for your property
- Document existing windows for applications
- Develop restoration plans that meet heritage standards
- Work with heritage consultants when required