Building maintenance - windows and doors

In this book, architectural antiquarian Erika Åberg shows you how to maintain, renovate and make creative reuse projects with old windows and doors.

The windows are the soul of the house has almost become a saying in building conservation. What does it really mean? What are the significance and qualities of old windows? And what about doors? Here, Erika Åberg talks about design and stylistic approaches through the ages, different types of glass, function or the lack of it, and the challenges of keeping the heat in and the cold out.

The timber used for windows and doors in the past was the best available, of a quality that is hard to find today. If cared for properly, it can last for hundreds of years. Here you will learn restoration of varying degrees of difficulty, from first aid to full restoration.

With smart techniques and solutions, you can get windows and doors that are beautiful and fit your house. It goes without saying that preserving is more environmentally friendly than buying new. Here is an example of an orangery built with recycled windows.

Erika Åberg explains in text and pictures how you can take care of and enjoy your old windows and doors for a long time to come.