What is so sad about this is the windows don't need to be replaced. Original windows hold significant value. While modern replacements typically need replacement within 20-30 years, historic wooden windows can last centuries with proper maintenance. The craftsmanship in older windows often surpasses modern alternatives, making restoration a worthwhile investment for both historical accuracy and longevity.

I restored 189 windows in my 200-year-old house in Poland rather than replacing them. The windows are fundamental to a building's character and historical authenticity. You can date a building by analyzing its window features. The older the house, the fewer and smaller the windows, often due to glass manufacturing limitations and structural needs. For instance, a 16th-century manor might have small, thick-glassed windows with irregular panes, while an 18th-century townhouse would show taller, multi-paned sash windows.