There's no need to tear off the shutters and throw out the sash in the name of energy efficiency, say groups that are seeking to preserve the historic look of buildings.
With federal tax credits for installing energy-efficient windows set to end this year, vinyl replacement window installers are anticipating a rush of orders in the next few months. But the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance wants property owners there to reconsider abandoning their old wood-framed windows.
The group recently included historic windows statewide on its annual "Seven to Save" list, which typically features buildings or landmarks it considers threatened. Windows made the list because while they are among the most visible and defining features of historic buildings, property owners often are quick to replace them because of the growing emphasis on going "green" and energy efficiency, said Maggie Stier, the alliance's field service representative.
"We're not trying to save every window, but we want to make sure as many people as possible have the information to make good decisions," she said.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation hasn't included windows on its annual list of endangered sites, but it has promoted weatherization tips on its website. At least two other preservation groups, in Alabama and Philadelphia, have included windows on their lists, though John Gallery, director of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia said he hasn't seen a great rush to replace windows.
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