Everything You Need to Know About Historic Window Restoration

Every project is different — window size, wood condition, number of sashes, and scope of work all factor into the final number, so posting a price online would set the wrong expectation more often than not. That said, we know you need a ballpark before committing to anything, and we're happy to give you one. A quick email with a few photos and a rough window count is usually enough for us to give you a realistic budgetary range. No pressure, no obligation — just a straight answer so you can plan accordingly. Send us a note here.

For the vast majority of historic homes, restoration is the better choice — on every metric that matters. Original windows were made from old-growth timber that no modern manufacturer can replicate. They're more durable, more repairable, and more valuable to your home's character. Properly restored original windows also last indefinitely, while modern replacements typically fail within 15–20 years. Read our full restoration vs. replacement comparison.

For a typical full-home restoration of 10–20 windows, the shop work takes approximately 2–4 weeks. Your windows are removed, restored in our shop, and reinstalled room by room — keeping your home secure throughout the process. We'll give you a specific timeline during your estimate based on your project's scope.

Yes, absolutely. Painted-shut windows are one of the most common issues we encounter in older homes. This is usually caused by layers of paint applied over the years without proper preparation. We remove the sashes, strip all paint down to original wood, and restore smooth, easy operation — including replacing the sash cord and tuning the mechanics.

Sarco Dual Glaze is the gold standard in window glazing putty — an oil-based compound that creates a weather-tight, flexible seal between the glass and wood or steel frame. It remains slightly flexible for years, moving with the seasonal expansion and contraction of the window, which prevents the cracking that causes water infiltration. Sarco was used in the restoration of the White House windows. We use nothing else.

Yes. Steel window restoration is one of our core specialties. We work on mid-century steel casement, awning, and hopper windows. The process involves complete rust removal down to bare metal, rust inhibitor treatment, Direct-to-Metal primer, Sarco glazing, and high performance acrylic paint. Learn more about our steel window process.

An Indow insert is a custom-made acrylic panel that presses into your existing window frame using a patented compression seal — creating an interior storm window that dramatically improves energy efficiency, noise reduction, and UV blocking without altering your original windows. They're removable and leave no permanent marks. Barron Restorations is a certified Indow installer — we take precise measurements and handle complete installation. Learn more about Indow inserts.

Yes — always. We provide free on-site estimates throughout our service area (Georgetown to San Antonio). We assess your windows in person, document what's needed, and give you a clear, detailed quote with no pressure and no obligation. Request your free estimate.

We serve the entire Austin area including Hyde Park, Travis Heights, Clarksville, Cherrywood, Rosedale, East Austin, South Congress, Barton Hills, Allandale, Tarrytown, and more. We also serve homeowners across Central Texas from Georgetown to San Antonio. For the right project, we'll travel anywhere in Texas.

If your windows are painted shut, have visible wood rot or rust, drafty even when closed, have cracked or missing glazing compound, or have broken sash cords — they need restoration. If they open and close smoothly but just have minor weatherstripping issues or sticking — they may just need a tune-up. We'll assess and give you an honest answer during your free estimate.

Yes. Barron Restorations is fully EPA RRP (Renovation, Repair and Painting) Lead Safety Certified. Homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint, and we follow all required lead-safe work practices to protect your family and our crew throughout every project.

Yes. We serve homeowners throughout Central Texas — Georgetown, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, San Marcos, New Braunfels, San Antonio, Dripping Springs, Bastrop, Wimberley, and everywhere between. For the right project, we'll travel anywhere in Texas. Describe your project in your estimate request and we'll let you know.