Antique Windows

If you have an older home, one great way to keep the original character is by installing antique windows. In addition, installing an antique window in new construction can immediately give a new home a vintage feel. Many people choose antique windows for cabins or other rustic structures.

If you’re in the market for antique windows, consider shopping at an architectural salvage yard. You can often find beautiful antique window frames here, but be aware that many will need replacement glass. In addition, you might try approaching the owner of a building or old home that is being torn down, to see if you might purchase and remove the windows prior to the demolition.

Keep in mind that using antique windows are not likely to provide you with very good energy efficiency, though you can minimize this problem to some extent by ensuring that your glass is in good shape and by caulking well and wrapping the windows in foam insulation.

Shopping on the internet can be a great way to look for antique windows. You might be surprised to hear this, but there are actually many companies that specialize in the salvage and resale of old windows. You can find all sorts of antique windows from these companies, from traditional antique framed windows, to specialty windows, to stained and leaded glass antique windows.

You’ll also find companies that buy antique window frames and then replace the glass with new stained glass art. This is a wonderful combination of old and new, providing character and antique beauty with new, more efficient and stronger glass.

If you want the energy efficiency of new windows, but want some of the character of antique windows, consider fitting your new windows with antique window hardware. You can instantly give a plain, new window character and charm by fitting it with an antique crank or other antique window hardware.

You’ll find many companies that specialize in antique window and door hardware. These companies can provide you with antique hardware that has been refurbished to work like new, but that still carries that vintage charm. Many of these companies also market reproduction antique hardware; new products that simply look old.

Antique windows and hardware are a wonderful way to instantly give any home, of any age, beautiful character. You can find antique windows and accessories at many companies, so check out the many options available.