Window Insulation for Historic Buildings

Replacement windows work in historic homes.

Historic buildings often seem more drafty and colder than modern day buildings, which makes some people believe that the buildings didn't have insulation. Architects used other features to heat and insulate these structures, including skylights and shutters.

Types

Types of window insulation included shutters on both the inside and outside of windows, awnings outside and curtains, drapes and Venetian blinds placed inside the home or building.

Benefits

The purpose of exterior and interior insulation was to let as much light into the building as possible, which increases the temperature. Shutters, blinds and other features also kept the heat inside the building, instead of escaping through the windows.

Features

Most historic homes feature a ratio of 20 percent windows to 80 percent wall space. Less windows resulted in less heat loss.

Expert Insight

Before replacing any windows in your historic home, check the Secretary of the Interior for the Standards for Rehabilitation, which clearly outlines the appropriate methods.

Warning

If you decide to replace windows, only use specialists with experience in historic structures. These specialists know how to use replacements without damaging the integrity of the property.

References

• National Park Service: Conserving Energy in Historic Buildings
• Foam-Tech: Historic Building Preservation Insulation Problems