Recommendations: Need to replace ancient single pane windows in home built in 1949

Submitted by Baremegigjen t3_11zlgpa in newhampshire

We’re buying a home in Francestown that was built in 1949. The single pane windows appear to be original to the house as each of the panes was individually attached to the mullions. Chances are very high they also have lead based paint. We need to replace them and are in a position to do so before moving in. Does anyone have a recommendation for a window company that is also certified to do lead paint remediation? We know a great window company in the DC metro area, but alas New Hampshire is a bit out of their service area!

Thanks!

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Automatic-Raspberry3 t1_jdcx06y wrote

1949 isn’t ancient.

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Baremegigjen OP t1_jdd14c4 wrote

Excellent point. We’re staying with my sister-in-law in a house built in 1787. Their windows, however, are new.

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Azr431 t1_jdfk6f8 wrote

Lol true in New England it isn’t but everywhere else it is

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zippy_jr t1_jdd9zom wrote

We used Affordable Windows and Siding out of Auburn for our previous home built in 1890. They do a damn fine job.

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Icy-Neck-2422 t1_jdcv16w wrote

Are you looking to have the windows reglazed or replacement windows or have new construction units installed?

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Baremegigjen OP t1_jdd18p3 wrote

Double-paned replacement windows. These windows are not worth saving.

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bassboat1 t1_jdcvhxz wrote

What condition are the interior and exterior casings/sills in? Are vinyl replacements an option for you? FWIW, I'm local to you and do windows.

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Baremegigjen OP t1_jdd1d94 wrote

The casings and sills are in very good shape and vinyl is a very realistic option. Edit: There is one window in a bathroom that was replaced a couple of years ago and it’s vinyl.

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Stickyfynger t1_jdd3lcd wrote

We replaced 1977 leaky windows with Anderson replacement windows and did it ourselves. About 24 windows-ish (2016) cost was $300-ish per window. Took about 20 mins per window once we got the first one in and done (that one we took our sweet time). Banged it out over two weekends. What a difference too. Immediately Noticed noise reduction, energy efficiency and the view through non-acid rain stained windows was awesome. Good luck OP!

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Lords_of_Lands t1_jdddsf2 wrote

You don't need to replace them. Old windows with storm panes are good enough compared to moderns windows while costing significantly less and won't need to be replaced every 15 years.

Basically you just replace any rotting wood, caulk the gaps, paint, and you're good to go. Having a good seal is what's important. If you're concerned about shards of glass from a broken window, you can buy shatter resistant protective film that's cheap and trivial to install.

Learn more here: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/storm-windows

Keep in mind everything in your house is going to have lead paint if the windows do. If any floors are painted, there's lead under there too.

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nixstyx t1_jddnt6n wrote

I would whole heartedly disagree with you. Perform an air intrusion test or just use a thermal camera and you'll see why windows from the 1940s are not good compared to modern windows. It's not just the glass itself, it's also how the window frames were installed (i.e. without insulation around them). Storm panes don't do anything to help that. And the idea that anyone would need to replace modern windows "every 15 years" is baffling. Modern windows are going to last a lot longer than that, and more importantly, they'll function a lot better. These modern storm panes are permanently installed, meaning you can no longer open the window. That's a deal breaker for most people who like some airflow after a long stuffy winter.

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movdqa t1_jdh46ud wrote

We replaced 8 windows in a home built in the 1920s last fall. They were standard Anderson windows with a screen attachment on the outside. We also have some lead and asbestos remediation to do before selling the place. This stuff isn't fun.

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