Replacement kit can make old windows as good as new

Q:I own a 70-year-old home with drafty wood windows, and there are several cracked panes of glass. I would like to change out the single pane glass for insulated glass. Is this possible? Is it cost effective and will it solve the draft problem?

Can you suggest the best method for preserving the home's style as well as maximizing energy savings?

A:What a great question. It is important to transform the old, uninsulated wood windows into new energy-efficient windows while preserving the home's original architectural style.

To accomplish this, Weather Shield's tilt sash replacement kits should be installed as soon as possible. Tilt sash replacement kits are ideal for homeowners seeking instant remodeling satisfaction, and a big plus is that they can be professionally installed without disturbing surrounding trims, wallpaper, or paint.

The available options of primed, pre-finished, or stainable wood interiors; energy-efficient glazings; removable wood grilles; simulated or true divided lites; as well as the convenience of tilt-in sashes for easy cleaning, make sash replacement kits the perfect fix for drafty, old, and hard-to-operate wood windows.

Our Expert: Chris Brown is the general manager of Exclusive Windows & Doors of Austin.

For more information visit exclusivewindowsanddoors.com or contact Brown at (512) 341-9282.

Q:We recently purchased a loft and would like to know if different design rules should apply. Can you please provide decorating tips geared for this type of space?

A:Scale is the most important issue in a loft area.

Start with a significant seating piece, such as a nice upholstery that grounds the colors and textures in some artwork. Add accessories on smaller tables, perhaps a narrow buffet table on a long wall that leads to another room.

A torchiere lamp in a corner fills the area with soft light, adds mood lighting against two walls simultaneously, and provides the illusion of a greater space.

A silk tree placed in a large planter in another corner, with well-placed lighting behind it can also make a spectacular showing without taking up much available room.

Add small accent pieces like chairs or magazine racks, ottomans, or throw pillows for the floor that will add pizzazz and give inviting results.

Our expert: Fina Ross of Fina Ross Contracting & Design Services she is TRCC licensed and can be reached at (512) 918-8473.

n

E-mail questions to AskaBuilder@hbaAustin.com. For more information on the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, visit AustinHomeBuilders.com.

While every attempt has been made to ensure that the information contained in this column has been obtained from reliable sources, the HBA and the Austin American-Statesman are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. The information contained in this column is for general guidance on matters of interest only. Before making any decisions or taking any action, you should consult a professional.