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Shudder Sunday: The Book $34.99

The Case for Historic Windows

$14.99 – $29.99

Are your old windows draining your wallet—or is that just a myth?!

✅ Complete Research: Packed with verified data and studies on window efficiency
✅ Practical Solutions: Real-world techniques to improve historic window performance
✅ Cost-Saving Analysis: Detailed breakdown of restoration vs. replacement economics
✅ Climate-Specific Guidance: Tailored recommendations for both northern and southern regions
✅ Myth-Busting Facts: Evidence-based answers to common window replacement claims
✅ DIY-Friendly Options: Affordable improvements anyone can implement

In The Case for Historic Windows, restoration experts Scott Sidler and Stacy Grinsfelder reveal how to transform your drafty old windows into energy-efficient treasures. Save money, boost your home’s value, and preserve its timeless charm—all without the waste of replacement. Backed by scientific studies, industry testing, and real-world experience, this book is your key to smarter, greener living.

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The cover of The Case for Historic Windows by Scott Sidler & Stacy Grinsfelder
The Case for Historic Windows $14.99 – $29.99

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The Case for Historic Windows Unveil the Hidden Costs of Window Replacement

Why replace when you can restore? A restored historic window with a storm window matches the energy efficiency of new double-pane replacements—without the high cost or environmental damage. Historic windows, crafted from durable old-growth wood, can last centuries with basic care, while replacement windows often fail in 15-20 years. Plus, each new window pumps out 1,244 pounds of CO₂—restoration keeps that footprint at zero. Choose wisely: save money and history.

Understanding Windows

Learn what defines a "historic window" and why their ingenious design and construction allows them to last for generations.

Window Lifespan

Historic windows can last centuries with proper care, while replacements often fail within 15-20 years due to sealed unit failures.

Environmental Impact

Each replacement window creates 1,244 pounds of CO₂—an "energy debt" that takes decades to overcome.

Efficiency Standards

Explore key metrics and discover how historic windows can be upgraded to meet modern energy efficiency standards.

ROI Analysis

Replacement windows take 32 years to pay for themselves—longer than they typically last. Learn the real economics.

Practical Solutions

Get climate-specific recommendations for both northern and southern regions to improve your historic windows.

the inconvenient truth Stop Falling For The Replacement Window Myth

Every year, thousands of historic windows are needlessly discarded—victims of aggressive marketing campaigns from replacement window companies. But what if everything you’ve been told about old windows is wrong?

The Case for Historic Windows reveals the inconvenient truth: a properly maintained historic window can last centuries, while the average replacement window needs to be replaced again after just 15-20 years.

With compelling data, practical advice, and real-world examples, this essential guide challenges the conventional wisdom about window efficiency and gives you the knowledge to make truly informed decisions about your home’s historic windows.

This book is a very readable examination of the facts about window replacement vs. restoration. It’s easy to get lost in the R values and U values and other measures of window efficiency. This book urges readers to think more holistically about the abundance of choices homeowners can make regarding the windows in their homes.
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Alison Hardy

Founder
Window Woman of New England

Scott’s profound knowledge of historic windows shines in this book, capturing the educational approach we use at Austin Historical with our clients. The evidence-based arguments and practical solutions help homeowners make informed decisions that save money while preserving their home’s authentic character.
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Jon Hussey

Sales Manager
Austin Histrical

Think restoration is too complicated or expensive?

Window restoration isn’t as hard as it sounds. With step-by-step guidance and clear illustrations, this book empowers beginners and pros alike. From fixing a sash cord to upgrading efficiency, you’ll gain the skills to tackle it yourself—or know what to ask a contractor.
  • How to assess your windows’ condition in minutes
  • Simple repairs to boost efficiency and comfort
  • Energy code secrets to meet modern standards
  • The math proving restoration pays off faster than replacement

About The Authors

Scott Sidler

Scott is the owner of several companies. Austin Historical, a 40+ person window restoration company that restores and rebuilds historic wood and steel windows across the southeastern US. Austin Enterprises Group that provides e-commerce and content creation solutions for websites in the DIY & Home Improvement niche, and Preservan Orlando, a home rot repair franchise. He has served on the Orlando Historic Preservation Board and Window Preservation Alliance Board. He is a bestselling author of several restoration books and the creative force behind The Craftsman Blog.

Stacy Grinsfelder

Stacy Grinsfelder is a passionate storyteller and preservation advocate. Since 2014, she has been inspiring audiences through her blog, Blake Hill House, which chronicles the restoration and revival of her 1800s home. As the producer and co-host of the popular podcast True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy brings historic preservation to life with a mix of knowledge and humor, sharing entertaining and educational stories that engage and motivate old house enthusiasts. When she’s not behind the mic, you’ll find her teaching hands-on window restoration workshops, empowering DIYers to save their historic windows and embrace the art of preservation. 

Additional information

Weight 1 lbs
Format

Paperback, Ebook, Bundle – Paperback + Ebook
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