Historic windows almost invariably present two specific challenges to home energy efficiency:

1) Air & moisture infiltration/exfiltration

2) UV & thermal transfer

Assuming that sashes are in good shape and weather tight, infiltration/exfiltration and moisture are often still problematic because sashes often don't fit tightly; for example, if the window frame is not completely square, or because of a general lack of sealing between the sash and frame. The window frame and casing often are also in need of sealing. In the worst case, an inadequate drainage plane might result from poor flashing, inadequate sill slope, or an inward leaning wall, causing water accumulation, deterioration, rot, mold, etc.

 

This thread invites further questions, as well as useful solutions that anyone might've devised, or otherwise observed, in solving these issue. In particular, we are interested primarily in solutions that emphasize preservation and repair, primarily, and replacement with historically accurate components only when repair is not possible. That is, we are generally striving for minimal impact to historic fabric.

 

(Please note that I will launch a separate thread covering UV & thermal transfer. Thanks!)

Tags: Infiltration, Moisture, Preservation, Sealing, Windows

Views: 33

Replies to This Discussion

Hi John,

Thanks for starting these historic window threads. I am passionate about this topic.

David Clark covers window rebuilds on his post, but I have found massive air leaks around the outside of the window buck on older masonry homes. I remove the trim and spray foam the gap. If you think the drain plane is compromised, you can check this at the same time.

I buy my weatherstripping from Conservation Technology, they are high quality and they carry pretty much anything you need.

RSS

Home Energy Pros

Home Energy Pros was founded by the developers of Home Energy Saver Pro (sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) and brought to you in partnership with Home Energy magazine.

Latest Activity

Ania Divina, SEXY LEDS posted photos
2 hours ago
tedkidd replied to Jose Macho's discussion Why Are Energy-Saving Home Inprovements Down??
"Pat, I think you and I agree on a LOT of things.   One thing I don't want to see is more…"
10 hours ago
tedkidd commented on Tom Delconte's blog post Robert Shiller Says Retrofits Are Never Worth It!
"Bob B.   Buying a home is a good investment because it is forced savings more than a good…"
11 hours ago
Joe Huang posted a discussion

White Box Technologies launches Web-based weather data for building energy simulations

White Box Technologies is pleased to announce under agreement with ASHRAE the launch of WBT Weather…See More
12 hours ago
Tom Delconte commented on Tom Delconte's blog post Lykans $29, Vampires $0 !
"Bill: these are available for free at www.freeenergy.com . Just ask for Jen Guarater! I…"
13 hours ago
Joseph Lamy commented on Jim Gunshinan's blog post The Universe Is Made of Stories
"My life changed when I got 'ductalatored' - became familiar with proper sizing guides for…"
13 hours ago
J.C. Martel replied to J.C. Martel's discussion Disasters & sustainable energy
"Thanks Dennis."
14 hours ago
Judi Lyall joined allen p tanner's group
Thumbnail

Energy Auditing Equipment for Sale, Trade or to Purchase

Discuss the pros and cons of the equipment you are interested in prior to purchase. Post equipment…See More
yesterday
Judi Lyall replied to David Starrett's discussion I am looking for a good IR camera in the group Energy Auditing Equipment for Sale, Trade or to Purchase
"Hi there I am selling my equipment and have a great Fluke TIR for sale for 3600.00    If…"
yesterday
William H Nickerson commented on Tom Delconte's blog post Lykans $29, Vampires $0 !
"66 watts a/sec  -3960 w/min   237600 w/hr   5702400  w/day …"
yesterday
tedkidd commented on Jim Gunshinan's blog post The Universe Is Made of Stories
"I think Tom is busting your chops Jim.  The "drivel" part may not have been well…"
yesterday
Tom Maides commented on Jim Gunshinan's blog post The Universe Is Made of Stories
"Some of the best scientists of the previous 1000 years were also leaders in the Church.  Aside…"
yesterday

© 2013   Created by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service