Flat Window Warning: Don't Fall For This Dangerous New Window look.

[@mrBDeye]

I spent months scraping paint and old glazing on the original windows of my home. When it came time to sell, that’s what the buyers loved. Their exact words were, “Beautiful. It’s like a doll house.”

[@BrentHull]

Awesome!! Thanks for sharing.

[@sofiachampion2543]

lol My home is called the doll house of the neighborhood. While I can't afford the top of the line, I get close and improve it with features that appear like this video. I love old houses and I love what I can afford and upgrade slowly. Yes, to the doll house!

[@odiferousmusky1299]

Thanks Brent, the world needs to know. I live in an historic neighborhood and I'm about the last home in my block that still has original double hung windows, which I am slowly restoring with original finishes and they look amazing! Vinyl is a pox upon the earth and a sin against God, as far as I'm concerned!

[@BrentHull]

Well said! Thx

[@MichaelWilliams-ph4ri]

Except when you are replacing 1965 aluminum crap. Like a pig in slop I am to replace aluminum.

[@danfrick397]

Drama queen

[@ELgratitude]

I will do the same with my old windows

[@honeybadgerisme]

@@MichaelWilliams-ph4ri😂same-but I've been experimenting with using various tips on the caulk gun to replace the nonexistant gaskets. Weirdly works so far.

[@olivemcrae9566]

From Canada... keep your glass closer to the center of the insulation for less heat loss. Glass that is set in is less exposed to wind and have less heat loss. Less exposed to hail damage. It is not all about the look.

[@BrentHull]

ok

[@Nessy-of-the-Lynn]

Its' also good to have the set back ones because the water can drip off them. The screens can be on the outside of the window instead of the inside, plus you have a place to trap all those pesky flies!

[@jamesbizs]

@@BrentHullmaybe you should just NOT respond at all, instead of responding with these stupid “ok” comments. Just makes you come off very dislikable.

[@honeybadgerisme]

...and a bit of rain shelter, sun shelter-just a bit better no matter what!

[@GovilGirl]

​@@jamesbizs umm, you okay? You seem a bit cranky. Maybe xall you mom, take a nap and have a snack before trolling comments to yell at people.

[@anonz975]

Just had 90 yr old Craftsman windows restored and installed in a new build. Initially the young builder thought it was crazy to restore them since "new is better" but I think he has been converted. He was proud when the phase inspector said it is rare to see wood windows that opened and closed so smoothly.

[@BrentHull]

I love it. Thanks for sharing.

[@pcno2832]

When I sold my parent's house, I had one sash replaced and fixed a few of the 1950s spiral balances. After 3 new owners, I just noticed that it is the only house on the street with the original 6 over 1 windows. I can only hope that future owners appreciate how much better they look than the plastic windows with adhesive tape muntins on their neighbor's houses.

[@LuckyCharms777]

@@pcno2832 I live in a ranch house neighborhood that was built in about 1968. The last of the original owners are passing away. As their homes are remodeled and sold, the original aluminum windows are being replaced with cheap vinyl windows that look even worse. Modern flat windows, which of course are all painted white, look terrible on older homes. One of the nicest homes on my street was recently updated after the owner passed and it was sold. They completely ruined the original beauty and character of the house by installing white vinyl windows and painting the wood siding the trendy and ubiquitous dark grey.

[@68lehman]

My wife and I bought a 1936 Brick French Tudor in Badin, NC and are slowly remodeling. We did sacrifice a bedroom to expand the kitchen and created a main bedroom closet and a small powder room for guests. Our windows are original six over one wooden double hung that have fifties storm windows outside, I am slowly restoring the windows and the storm windows with much intensive labor but we will keep as original and never replace with junk!

[@BrentHull]

Thank you!!

[@bretth3718]

As a former window/door contractor for 30+ years, I totally endorse everything this guy has said!

[@BrentHull]

Wow. Thanks so much.

[@sue2611]

I call them Post-It Note windows. They look like they're just stuck on and can be easily peeled off.

[@BrentHull]

100% Thx.

[@kylejmarsh3988]

I always describe them as 'outies' like belly buttons. Old houses have 'innies' and cheap new houses have 'outies'.

[@LorraineCoe]

I think part of the problem is most people will follow the path of least resistance (or automatically go for a cheaper choice). Their contractor will present his preferred option, which may or may not be the best choice long term. It just may be less expensive, have lower labor costs to install, and probably be lower quality. Unless someone plans on spending 30-40 years in the same house, it just might not make sense to spend the money up front if you expect to move in 5 or 10 years. I will say almost every time we’ve gone with the budget friendly option we wind up being disappointed. Either performance of the material or the quality just isn’t there.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for sharing.

[@QuincyHousePF]

Hull=inspiring. 1882 Italianate 10K sq. ft. mansion in the UP of Michigan here. I’m restoring our 60+ double hung 142 year old original windows and screens, even still in remarkable condition getting very intimate with them. It’s a love affair and privilege to restore them. Brent you are more of a mentor than you know!

[@BrentHull]

So glad to hear it. Keep up the good work.

[@TheSwissChalet]

Gentle scraping, sanding, linseed oil, glazing compound, you got this!

[@abeerali7834]

$4,000-5,000 per window is a budget we can never afford. In my entire region, we use Aluminum frames for all windows and exterior doors. Profiles come in all kinds of designs and are powder coated with a huge array of colors to choose from, including metallic and wood looks. Glass shade color of your choice is fitted, rubber seal is applied from inside and outside, then silicone bead around where the profile meets the walls, both inside and outside. In addition to choices openings/closing mechanisms, they offer a minimum of 10 year guarantee with free maintenance. Prices vary based on profile sizes, factories and origin. From $180-520 per window (the size shown on this video). The larger chunk of the budget goes to plumbing, electrical, and air conditioning.

[@BrentHull]

Thx for sharing.

[@texasred2702]

Could you post some of the names of these companies (and if they do business in the US)? I know YT will delete anything with a link now but a few names we can just Google. Where I am (Austin TX area, vinyl is not an option in the heat and humidity and wood is vulnerable termites or carpenter ants, as well as all the shifting from extremes of temperature. Aluminum casement windows were popular in the 50s and 60s and many older homes still have them but I don't see them in New construction or as a remodeling option around here anymore.

[@abeerali7834]

@@texasred2702 I’m in Kuwait where temps reach 140s in the summer. Vinyl is not an option 🙂 HVAC is everywhere and all those companies compete to provide the most energy efficient aluminum frames, seals, and glass. Double pane and triple pane are the most popular. Unfortunately, all those companies are local and do not ship out of region. You can Google “Aluminum companies in Kuwait” and visit their websites. There are hundreds. Some local agents import from factories in Bahrain, Greece, Italy and Germany with higher price tags. I also own properties in Cyprus. They import from Greece.

[@jerrywalden7131]

Big problem is all the mega builders.... pretending to be custom.....

[@BrentHull]

100% Word.

[@paulalim1476]

Not familiar with flat windows……

[@hmbld1]

No the big problem is all the mega buyers want custom but have no MONEY!!!!

[@anitaanotherorchid294]

Hurray for this ! I am tired of seeing people rip out these pre 1940 windows . We have a government here in Canada that is pushing for this AND giving people money to rip them out ! All for energy efficiency and being ‘more green ‘ ! So we rip out the old growth wood windows that have lasted for over 100 years ( and will be around for another 100 if you just put a little effort in fixing them) and toss them away and replace them with plastic or aluminum . Then in 20 years you are tossing out these new “ greener more efficient windows because they have reached their life expectancy ! This drives me up the wall !! How does this even make sense ???? Grrrr! Thank you Brent for all you do and your passion in doing it !

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for your comment! I agree. Its foolish.

[@sorbabaric1]

Also, think of the toxic by products of plastic and vinyl manufacturing. And plastics sit in the landfill for how long ?

[@STEVE-lk2ft]

How do they last forever in the landfill but only 20 years in your house? No people like you want to decide for everyone what kind of windows we need to put in our homes! You want depth and shadow lines, using brick would cost less than $ 5,000 per window.

[@EKA201-j7f]

They have been doing this in CA and I thought they looked awful and cheap. And they don't seem to work well at insulating, either.

[@elsa_g]

@@STEVE-lk2ftthey break but they don't decompose, that's how. This person isn't saying the government should mandate people buying $5000 windows, they're saying the government is trying to mandate that people remove their existing wood windows. Idk why you're so mad at them for expressing frustration with that bad policy.

[@annajones1396]

I live in a historic neighborhood, and the thing that's driving me crazy is these windows and contractors coming in, removing a lot of the interior walls, and just making it one big open space. They strip it of just about everything. They might leave in a token fireplace that doesn't work, or a pair of double doors, but they are ruining these old homes.

[@TheSwissChalet]

People might as well just build a new barn...that's what they end up getting.

[@mattp4079]

No one wants a house with a galley kitchen, a dining room and living room.That's why they rip walls.

[@christopherzehnder]

Yes. This. HGTV has convinced a generation of homeowners that living in an open, featureless warehouse is more desirable than having a well-programmed series of spaces. Even a small kitchen can be very functional, it just takes a little extra effort to plan and maybe some custom touches.

[@annajones1396]

@@mattp4079 then they should go buy a new house and leave the historical homes to those who appreciate them.

[@lesleywillis6177]

I suggest that you live how you like and don’t worry about the others. Here in UK neighbours can object about the type of house you build because they don’t like it! We’ll maybe I don’t like your house? But I’m prepared to let you get on with your life.

[@ltandrepants]

yes to everything! old growth is gold! thanks for educating people!

[@BrentHull]

Thank you!

[@jvin248]

Two features on home construction I see differentiating build quality: Roof overhangs and inset deep windows. Cheap developments have the roof edge right at the siding and these flat windows. Where the problem reveals itself is on a hot muggy rainy day, the overhangs and inset windows allow you to have the window open some without getting wet inside.

[@BrentHull]

Great point. Thanks.

[@christopheryellman533]

No roof overhangs is my number one complaint. That overhang protects the whole exterior of the house, besides being aesthetically pleasing. How expensive is it to pop 12-16" overhangs on your roof?

[@jasonmorski1630]

Brent is a NATIONAL TREASURE - protect this man!! 😂. I’m currently restoring my windows on 1925 Highland Park home and have watched hours of Brent’s videos - thanks for creating this content and sharing!

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for the feedback. Cheers.

[@markgarland9000]

And lets just say the word..those windows look like crap. I worked many, many hours to save my 80+ year old six over six double hungs in my 1941 Tudor style home. The flipped homes in the neighborhood have all had theirs ripped out and replaced with garbage plastic single panes. One with a beautiful half-round top was framed in for a smaller rectangular unit.The charm and significance of the house was destroyed. Thanks for this and other great videos.

[@actionjksn]

I've seen and installed hundreds of modern windows, from the lowest price to the really high end high quality wood windows. I've never seen a cheap bottom of the barrel vinyl-plastic modern window that was single pane. Look at the cheapest most low end replacement windows from Home Depot or Lowe's and they will all be double pane. They're still crap, but they are definitely double pane glass.

[@BrentHull]

Nice. Thanks for watching.

[@markgarland9000]

@@actionjksn Read my comment again. If you know windows you should know what "six over six" means. Six separate panes of glass in each sash. " Single pane" in my description contrasts multiple panes as opposed to a 'single pane'. "Divided light" windows were used in Tudor style homes because they represented the original windows on genuinely historic Tudor homes. Larger panes of glass were not available at the time. Go back even further and pieces of Mica were used as panes to at least provide some interior light if not visibility. Btw..did you know that a wood sash window, fully restored and weatherstripped in combination with a quality, properly installed storm window will match the weather and sound resistance of modern double paned windows?

[@delvindoodles2182]

I love when people share their knowledge like this, you can tell you love and care about what you do. Your work truly will live on and we thank you for your part in that. Keep it up

[@BrentHull]

I appreciate that! Cheers.

[@candacedavison2986]

Quality is rare these days. Thank you for keeping your integrity.

[@BrentHull]

Word.

[@gregorymacneil2836]

Not sure quality is rare or unattainable these days - I just don’t think the consumer knows what it is, where to get it, or how to evaluate it.

[@jamesbizs]

Quality isn’t rare at all. Not these days. Not those days. For the people that can pay $4000-6000 PER WINDOW, there have always been companies providing quality products or services. So don’t pretend like quality is rare lol or even more rare today than before. Quality always has been and always will be there. For the people that have the money, as always.

[@jamesbizs]

@@gregorymacneil2836or how to afford it *

[@avisitorhere]

I would encourage people to look for old windows in their local house parts recycling stores. Most every city has at least one company that recycles doors, windows, trim, stairs etc. from pre 1940 buildings. Old windows can be taken apart to either replace or repair your own damaged windows. I had several warped window sashes in my 1930 home and I was able to replace some of them with complete windows from the same era and a couple windows I rebuilt using the old stiles and rails from another window. The old glue used in pre 1940 windows can easily be removed making disassembly easy.

[@BrentHull]

Good point. Thx

[@brianmoeller3539]

Just found your channel an went right to this video. When we replaced our windows in our 1970 house, we purchased the highest quality we could afford. Vinyl was never an option and I had to have as much depth as possible based off of our "thin" walls. I recall I wanted windows that provided those shadow lines I always see in older homes. Windows are the eyes of the home. They allow me to see into the soul. Nothing more captivating than beautiful windows with well-matched casing/trim.

[@BrentHull]

Well said. THanks!

[@benjaminledford6111]

As an architect, I wholeheartedly agree with everything said. Oftentimes, the window frame actually protrudes farther beyond the flange than the thickness of the siding, making the windows like bug eyes. That said, I'm in a very modest market with tight budgets. I've never had a project where those beautiful 100 year windows would have been in the realm of possibility, and on the affordable housing projects I work on we're stuck with vinyl, like it or not. In those cases, I recommend recessing the window by adding a 2x4 window buck flush with the interior face of the 2x6 wall framing. Use liquid flashing to deal with the more complicated rough opening (which is better anyway) and use PVC or (more realistically for us) aluminum wrap to extend the jambs and sill. That pushes the window frame 2" further into the wall vs. attaching the flange to the face of the sheathing, and I think it will provide better water resistance and thermal performance. I also noticed on our last project that even the continuous insulation that was added helped a lot, though it was just 1". It at least pushed the siding and trim out in front of the window frame.

[@BrentHull]

All great ideas. Thx.

[@lisalaufenberg6002]

I lust after Hull windows for my 1930’s home in Wilkes County, North Carolina, home of Window World. I hope to be calling in a few years for those windows!

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for sharing.

[@YSLRD]

Our small city has a hundred year old courthouse and downtown. Some genius has recently replaced all the courthouse windows and part of the downtown with completely flat, black framed, giant paned windows. It's horrifying.

[@BrentHull]

Ugh! I hate that.

[@maggieirussell]

We have a thin profile vinyl window from the 80s and they suck water into the inside wall, so 50 years later we need new sub floor and have to remediate mold under the window

[@BrentHull]

Its a scam. Sorry.

[@christopherzehnder]

Sad story but a common one. In the 80’s, manufacturers discovered plastic and vinyl and it led to a ton of door/window/skylight failures because they failed to account for materiel expansion/contraction due to temperature. Plastic building materials expand/contract at a rate 7x that of metal, masonry and wood.

[@abrahamgandolfo2437]

I am a contractor in New Orleans. I agree with him. I use Accoya wood for sashes.

[@BrentHull]

THankyou.

[@tjkhan4541]

Mr. Hull, I graduated from Hillsdale College, and just want to say, thank you for making beautiful quality architectural features. God bless your day today.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks so much!

[@appleimacdude]

One thought I had was whether a window that is "flat" against the house is more prone to damage from hail and other objects - wonder if they recessed distance of "classic" home windows resulted in significantly more protection for the window - or not -

[@BrentHull]

I would think it would be much safer because only driving hail would hit a recessed window.

[@CharlesMcBrien]

Brent. Your passion for quality design is infectious. You continue to lead.

[@BrentHull]

Thx for the encouragement.

[@dorothythorpe6183]

I have wooden 1950's windows and some 1960s windows in an addition. The old ones are SO much better! I do want to replace all of them but now I'm considering re-doing the old single hungs. Thank you! And thanks to commenters!

[@BrentHull]

Sounds great! Thanks for the feedback.

[@giovannamoro8564]

I'm from italy and I can say that this man is right . Investigate very well before your purchase . In italy ,in last decade the market have been invade by cheap windows ,the results? Black mold inside the interir walls . It happened to me too.

[@BrentHull]

ok, thx for sharing.

[@jelsner5077]

If I ever build a new house, I will definitely choose Brent's line of windows.

[@flacadiabla3193]

SUGO German windows are the best way to go with a minimum of 16-inch framing, and the triple pane windows set in. Zero heating and electric bills. (Solar and amazing insulation) Wishing you that build!

[@jsongraham]

You have 4-5k per window? Congrats sir you are in the 1%

[@jelsner5077]

@@jsongraham No, sir, I am planning a modest house in the Cape Cod style with few windows. I have been saving my entire life towards this goal.

[@partshoard72]

@@jelsner5077 I applaud you, I have restored 11 of the 22 windows in my 1929 Craftsman and I love coming home to see them in all seasons. Well worth the effort

[@dregenius]

Don't worry, soon it won't matter how much money anyone has - any new homes commissioned will be bought in a leveraged buyout by private equity companies to then rent back to us.

[@JrGiles911]

I bought a home built in 1890, the windows are single pane original windows & need repair, my son keeps complaining about the windows & hounding me to replace them with new popular vinyl windows yet doesn't understand that new is not always better. I forwarded your video to him, thank you for explaining it in such detail 👍

[@BrentHull]

Nice. Thanks for holding on to the windows. Well done.

[@natamick5091]

Thank you so much! Absolutely need to replace some windows from an 1865 house and had no idea what I should be looking for.

[@BrentHull]

So glad it helped. Please choose carefully .

[@porchsinging4874]

THANK YOU! You are reinforcing my decision to keep my 100 year old windows despite the naysayers. I was going to save them just because they are beautiful and I love them. NOW I know that they are made of old growth wood and despite what everyone tells me, they ARE actually WORTH it. (Learning so much from your videos and my new old house thanks you). From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!

[@BrentHull]

Excellent! I'm SO glad to hear it.

[@markbeaulieu130]

Brent , when yu said hardie is crap you won my like, subscribe and trust lol. Ive said this for years and years but everyone still thinks is so great. You rock

[@BrentHull]

Thanks. Great minds...

[@johnalvitre3154]

Totally agree with all you say here Brent Hull. I actually restore old windows with other old windows people toss to the curb because beauty matters on the home. I have sent many window "Expert" salesmen away with this simple statement, "I will only consider your new window if you give me a 100 year warranty as my windows work and are over 100 years old." They always walk away knowing they could never offer anything near that. I also heard there are specs on old growth windows with a properly fit storm outer window performing on par with new dual pane windows. Do you have info. on that? Thank you as always.

[@BrentHull]

Yes, that is true. We have confirmed that .

[@richardburton-777]

It's is the cheeping & loss of wisdom, knowledge & understanding in art, music, architecture, agriculture, and Marriage, biology... Respect for healthy traditions. The last leg of a 4th Turning. Much planned & on purpose to dumb down & control. Thank you for these videos & historical content. ❤️🙏

[@BrentHull]

Thx for watching.

[@sygad1]

4th turning indeed

[@michaelbissen1946]

Completely agree. And then they will do sheetrock returns on the inside. No style, no character. 😢

[@ArthurDentZaphodBeeb]

Yup, cheap, cheap, cheap. That's why so many builders love 'modern' homes. No moulding, no trim, no need for plumb and level. Just get unskilled labor to slap together 'wallboard wonders' - on a surficial level, they look ok. But under that wallboard, it's shambolic.

[@christopherzehnder]

And no durability. Sheetrock sills are garbage!

[@johnwhite2576]

Actually Sheetrock returns are NOT cheap-much more work involved.than trimming out with wood.

[@johnwhite2576]

5,000 for a single double hung ?? Also NB a modern house needs a modern window.

[@actionjksn]

​@@johnwhite2576When I'm redoing a modern design home I always wrap it with 1x wood and then install whatever casing I'm using on the doors. It's fast and it looks so much better. I also prime all 6 sides of all the boards. I do the back priming on all my exterior trim as well and that's why my wood holds up and is still in good shape decades later. I keep a quart of paint and a brush while I'm installing the wood, so there is no bare wood, even on the parts that are not exposed.

[@thomash6496]

Thanks, Brent, for all you do. I appreciate your channel and the information you give us. I'm making historic sashes for an old army mess hall and I can't agree more with what you are saying. Thanks again Brent.

[@BrentHull]

Nice. Thanks for sharing.

[@R900DZ]

Great points! The only issue that wasn’t addressed is the performance. The new cheap vinyl windows do seem to perform better in terms of insulation, sound deadening, UV/heat rejection, etc.

[@BrentHull]

I think they perform "OK" for the first 10 years then begin to break down.

[@oneofmany7051]

I have noticed over the years that the feature that really gives a room the "wow" factor from the interior is the windows. Glad to have found these tips!

[@BrentHull]

Thx for watching.

[@actionjksn]

Some people do not want to pay the price for high quality wood windows, or they just don't have the money. Also if you are fixing a house up to flip, depending on how much the homes in a neighborhood sell for, you may not be able to fit expensive windows into the budget. Sometimes it means the difference in whether you are able to also afford to do the kitchen or something like that. Like you may have to choose between high-end windows or leaving a kitchen that looks terrible I've installed high quality windows and also the cheapest stuff you can get. If you do a good enough job with the cheap Windows you can make them work pretty well. But a lot of people who are redoing these old houses don't have a clue and just slap them in and they don't last. They have to be installed very square, plumb and level and mounted solid where there is no movement. Personally for my own house I'm using the good stuff with wood frames, because I know the difference. Our home is a 1,700 square foot built in 1999, so as you can imagine the windows and doors that the builder installed are bottom of the barrel and pretty horrible. I've replaced all the doors but still need to do the windows and case them out.

[@BrentHull]

ok, but flippers are wasting money and looks by replacing windows in historic homes

[@geniferteal4178]

This is great when you have the money. And the house has the value. I've heard it said. And it kind of makes sense that in a run of the mailhouse, wood windows are actually a deficit because they require maintenance and upkeep people would rather see vinyl windows that work. And they can forget about. Unless you're building a top notch house; windows that open and close are mostly what people look for. ( Maybe with an exception if the local area has some extreme situation that requires extra wind protection or heat. Or whatever)

[@BrentHull]

These windows work for a few years and then begin to fall apart. There are no windows that require no maintenance.

[@geniferteal4178]

@BrentHull You don't need to convince me. I'm just saying that the average homeowner sees vinyl and thanks. Okay, I don't have to paint it and they like that. Conversely, when they see wood, they think oh great, that's gonna need to be painted in a few years. It's not whether or not one is better. It's the perception that it requires maintenance. This is on lower end average people's homes

[@jamesbizs]

@@BrentHullcool story. So if the choice is spending $130,000 on your windows, one time. Or spending $5000 on brand new windows every few years, while doing ZERO maintenance, which do you think would be the decision? Let’s just say you replace the falling apart parts of your windows, every year. How many decades would it take to finally spend as much as the cost of $4500 windows?

[@KenYamaguchi-sg5zr]

Great post, Brent. In the custom world, if clients choose vinyl or some mass produced windows, that's a shame but something they can afford to fix after they've seen your videos and realize the mistake they've made. But in the world of mass production houses, where price per square foot makes or breaks the affordability of a house or subdivision, aluminum or vinyl windows are what will be found and accepted. Custom houses are works of art and building science, but production houses are commodity products built to a price. As with so many things, you get what you pay for. That said, great video, as usual. I really appreciate your passion for the art and the science.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks, I'm refusing the throw in the towel on production housing.

[@sparksmcgee6641]

I spent about 20 years as a window guy on top tier homes. I was one of the most knowledgeable in the country for a decade at what i did. I was very happy when Brent started his window company. They're the real deal. Like most things normal people cant afford to use what they install on their own homes. Recomend Brent on jobs you do and you may end up with some extras.

[@sparksmcgee6641]

Oh yeah, your design has to many windows. Many houses you can cut the number of windows in half. So maybe you can afford Brent's windows now. Or just use them in the windows you actually use. Funny how people refused to mix windows packages to get the right window for the right use.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for that!

[@BarryHull]

Gotta admit, I really like a good window snob. Seriously. Thumbs up.

[@BrentHull]

Haha, thanks.

[@brettster3331]

I also advise clients with original wood Windows in good shape to keep them and not think about replacement.

[@BrentHull]

Good. Thanks!!

[@AF-O6]

I need a Brent Hull book on how to restore AND how to build pre-war era double hung windows.

[@leestebbins5051]

Try wood window makeover on KZbin, lots of instructional videos.

[@TheSwissChalet]

I restored our wood frame windows myself. There's a learning curve but if you watch a lot of videos you can do it. It's so satisfying and saves A LOT of money.

[@liamo8932]

There is a book called the window sash Bible on restoration.

[@AF-O6]

@@liamo8932 Thank you!!!

[@BrentHull]

Thanks, check out my other videos on window restoration.

[@khurddesign]

it's like premanufactured homes. The "bumpouts" are like less than 5". They look like adult-sized play houses.

[@BrentHull]

Word. Thx.

[@timbarry5080]

You make some nice looking windows. I love that detail on the bottom of the stile of the upper sash. I love seeing those on old houses.

[@BrentHull]

Me too!! THx.

[@johnnyhodges7957]

Thank you for time . Being a student of craftsmanship . The videos you post are much appreciated .

[@BrentHull]

Thanks so much.

[@brettster3331]

Great video Brent, this is so important to know for helping to keep homes looking correct for nice neighborhoods, especially for window replacements in established historic areas.

[@BrentHull]

Agreed. Thanks for watching.

[@naynay3710]

This was very interesting and informative. I much prefer the look of the older windows but I'm still waiting to find out what is "dangerous" about the new window look. 🤔

[@BrentHull]

The look of these windows is destroying historic neighborhoods. As a preservationist and a lover of the beauty of historic buildings it is dangerous. Thx for watching.

[@angelabeatty6538]

Mind blown 🤯 just got back from Colorado and we couldn’t figure out why the new builds looked “ off”…….

[@BrentHull]

and now you know.

[@JonesJones-np2kq]

It’s just terrible, I remember when I was living in Switzerland, and they were building a new house close to where I was living in Zürich and I would walk by at every day on my way to work. And the craftsmanship I mean, I would just look at it in and wonder why don’t we built like that here in America?

[@BrentHull]

word!

[@svenjohnson2389]

Cost.

[@sparksmcgee6641]

We do. You just don't want to pay for it. You also didn't ask what it cost there. About the same as here for the same work.

[@svenjohnson2389]

@@sparksmcgee6641 don’t want to, or cannot afford the incredible costs for custom builds or period sensitive materials and techniques? The masses are not in the same market at all.

[@sparksmcgee6641]

@@svenjohnson2389 Then you just answered your own question. There are people in the US that build that way.

[@sirjames45]

This guy is TOTALLY right!

[@BrentHull]

Thank you!

[@kristinechristensen4026]

I could not afford to replace my windows with the ones you describe. Mine are already cheap ones from the 1970’s. I totally agree with your viewpoint!

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for watching.

[@pebetsingwana]

I live in South Africa and this topic was so interesting.

[@BrentHull]

Good to know. Thank you.

[@CoreyJordan-l3j]

Thank you for all that you have taught us. Would love to hear you talk about roof pitches and what pitch is historically accurate for Georgian vs. French vs. English etc. Thanks again!

[@BrentHull]

Ok. Thx for watching.

[@JohannaHealy]

We are currently restoring our 1880s wavy glass giant double hung windows and we get so many crazy looks and resistance from ALL contractors. This video gives me peace of mind because staying true to the restoration isn't easy. Do you have any tips for storm windows that we will probably need?

[@BrentHull]

Well done! Ignore the ignorant looks. Yes, replicate historic storms. A custom mill shop like ours can build them for you. Good luck.

[@reallunacy]

Im just going to have to learn how to make some sashes myself. My old home has wooden sash windows and one absolutely needs to be replaced, but the others probably just need to be reglazed. I doubt I'll ever be able to spend the money comfortably to get one of those 100 year windows in.

[@BrentHull]

You will be a better craftsman if you can do it. Good luck.

[@T.J]

I live in France and have been appalled by the way all the old historical windows are being replaced by low quality and less charming ones. I have been wanting to make some videos about the issue but never did… I don’t work in the industry so don’t really have a big incentive to do it. I’m glad you are doing this video and hope you’ll get many views. Hopefully some Europeans will also start making similar videos in local languages so that the old world also wakes up to this.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks!!

[@guytech7310]

Yes Cost is a major factor, but it what customers are looking for. As far a the depth of jam, a window buck can be used to increase the depth. I don't think the average homeowner is going to spend $2K or more for double hung window, when they can get a factory window for a fraction of that cost. If its for esthetics, a Window Buck can be used to add depth, & The other & better option is to have larger roof overhangs that protect the walls & windows from the weather as well as reduce summer radiate heat hitting the walls.

[@BrentHull]

ok

[@christopherzehnder]

Average customer will probably also eat processed foods and complain that they’re getting fat. Life is a series of choices / trade-offs.

[@guytech7310]

@@christopherzehnder Sure. 30 windows times $2K is $60K in just windows. Then throw in 3 or 4 doors with same depth at $4K each for a total between $72K & $76K I am sure you can afford that! This is fine for the deca-millionaires & up. Not so much for people with less wealth. I am guessing Brent clients have $10M or more in wealth.

[@jamesbizs]

@@BrentHullok. And is he wrong???

[@jamesbizs]

@@christopherzehnderlol choices and trade offs? Really? You’re comparing $60 windows , to $5000 windows? You think that’s just about choice? Buying quality food might cost you 2-4 times more. Not 80 times more! It’s absurdly unfair to compare someone buying low quality food, to someone not being able to afford $5000 windows. 20 windows, and your house build just went up 6 figures?

[@emessick]

Sapele is a great wood. At the conservatory company I used to work for we occasionally used it but mainly used Cedro

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for sharing.

[@SadisticSenpai61]

I haven't seen these flat windows, but I live in an older neighborhood. And I also live in the Northern Midwest. I question those flat windows ability to uh... keep the cold out. At least not without more layers of glass in there.

[@BrentHull]

You need to learn more about glass. Thx

[@josbc448]

It would be interesting for the guys on the podcast to roughly price out a “new-old” house build with available materials to show how they think it can be done. At current material prices it would be extremely painful to build anything historically sized or historically accurate. Love the windows though.

[@epicnamepwns1242]

They could expand on the topic with breakdowns of specific methods and what specific advantages each offers. It could be very informative.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for your comment.

[@D2O2]

Would also be interesting to look at inflation adjusted prices and comparing cost to income ratios, etc....

[@jasonjohnson1690]

Cheap vynal windows have been like this for years, but on Long Island where I’m from even fairly expensive homes have these crap windows. But along with the flattening of windows, all of the trim has also been eliminated or reduced to awful false representations of what they should be.

[@BrentHull]

Yes, its terrible.

[@paulmitchell6485]

I did my glazing apprenticeship fixing double hung putty fitted windows. Not great memories. Windows close to the siding or "flat" as you call it makes sense for viewing size, total interior size. In NZ where I live we use aluminum instead of pvc windows it's more expensive but it doesn't crack or break

[@BrentHull]

Very interesting. Thx for sharing.

[@Tillersweep]

Flush window. Yeah, they look like old fashioned "storm windows" which were actually set slightly proud of the surface of the building. They could still be thin AND set deeper into the wall.

[@BrentHull]

True. Thx.

[@eileenmacdougall8945]

Excellant information. I wholeheartedly agree with your ideas.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks so much.

[@surgeinc1]

Thank you! We have a house built in 1923 and the windows need work.

[@BrentHull]

ok. good luck.

[@liohaan]

I couldn't agree more. I have hated plastic windows being put on historical properties for the past two decades. Sadly, in Europe, original carpenters are mostly preserved because of the poverty of the owners, not because of their taste in architecture.

[@BrentHull]

True. Thx.

[@Cambium29]

One hailstorm away from a damn mess.

[@TheSwissChalet]

lol

[@christopherzehnder]

Absolutely! I think if a fat bird hit one of those windows, the bird would win!

[@BrentHull]

Word.

[@RushWorkingMan]

I replaced my homes vinyl windows with fiberglass windows with wood inside. From the inside they look like traditional wood windows. They were more expensive but far superior over vinyl windows. Very energy efficient, much stronger less chance of seal failures and last a lot longer than vinyl.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks.

[@ArthurDentZaphodBeeb]

Brent, come on. 99.99% of houses aren't built to last 100 years. They're full of OSB, asphalt shingles, Hardiboard, etc etc. So why should anyone buy decent windows if the house will crumble before they do?

[@christopherzehnder]

I would say buy a well-built pre- 1950’s house and then Brent’s windows make a lot of sense. As an Architect, I can’t always spend $5k per window of my client’s money. I *can* ensure that they don’t install absolute garbage windows in their dream house to save $5 - $10k on their project. It’s not an all or nothing proposition. $10k spent on better windows translates to an extra $70/month on a 30 yr loan.

[@GregStimpson101]

Nice video... For wealthy people. None of this applies to the majority of homes in the USA. A cheap window in 2020s is better than a great window from the 1920s. This is a solid architectural discussion of windows but it is unnecessarily dismissive of 100 years of advances in materials science.

[@BrentHull]

Well, if are going to throw in the towel, then that's your choice. I choose to rage against that machine.

[@lawriefoster5587]

UMMMM..NO

[@gregorymacneil2836]

It’s not that 99.99% are not built to last 100 years - it’s that they are not financed to last 100 years. If we set the mortgage to 100 years the banks would insist they were designed and constructed to last 100 years. With a 30 year mortgage it only needs to last 30 years. The cost difference between a building designed and constructed for a lifespan of 100 and 30 years is surprisingly small. This was proven years ago when the costs of new federal and state courthouses were compared.

[@T_157-40]

Those cheap flat vinyl windows might work for a very small storage rooms for tools or storage but it does not belong in a nice home. Vinyl also melts in a fire fast and becomes fuel that burns quickly.

[@BrentHull]

Good point. Thx

[@bestpilot98]

My 2012 mass-builder house has the hideous vinyl windows that stick out about 1/2 inch proud of the exterior trim. I hate everything about the look, and I'd eagerly replace every window with proper custom wood windows if this was my forever home.

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for sharing.

[@tedjohnson64]

The artistic observation of the flat vs 3D effect… also applies to modern cars. Digital dashboards often use digital versions of analog tach and speedometer, and they look terrible.

[@BrentHull]

Good point. Thx.

[@daviddeflyer8671]

This seems more like a complaint about style choices than anything functional about windows.

[@BrentHull]

ok, but i disagree

[@ShellSellars-Smith]

I just told my clients that replacing their wood windows with Vinyl would not be an asset. That they were better off replacing their broken wood sash windows with replacement sashes from Lummus (a local builder supply house here in GA) than to deal with not so inexpensive vinyl. If you are going to replace your windows go with fiberglass and skip the vinyl.

[@BrentHull]

Good start. Thx.

[@gr-1123]

I like your channel. I'm a structural engineer, and my favorite architects to work with are those who graduated from University of Notre Dame -- those architects understand proportions and design beautiful, enduring buildings. What brand do you recommend for good windows?

[@BrentHull]

Agreed. We love our 100 year window. We think it is the best traditional window. Thx.

[@mitsuomits9077]

We have a set of windos that need to be changed in our sunroom. Its good to kow what to avoid... bth way, this part 7:20 reminded me of Norm MacDonald 😊

[@BrentHull]

Haha. Thx.

[@jaireidca]

Wood frames require so much more maintenance over the life of the window. I don’t like the flat look, but you can get vinyl windows that install further in.

[@BrentHull]

Old growth wood lasts the longest. When you show me a vinyl window that is 100 years old I'll change my thinking.

[@jamesbizs]

@@BrentHullagain, they don’t NEED to last 100 years, when you can replace them every 5-10 years, for a few decades, and still not pay as much as the nice windows, it’s not a comparison

[@dmosier83]

We're wanting to get new 6 over 6 wood windows in our cape cod style house (we currently have vinyl) but are looking for a good wood window with details and depth. Is there one you would recommend that isn't a $5,000 window but also not a cheap $200-300 window? Really appreciate all the videos you make and pushing people to want better craftsmanship! We whole heartedly agree.

[@BrentHull]

Hmm, good question. We are exploring a less expensive version of our window. Building a sample now. email [e-mail] to learn more.

[@pcno2832]

I've noticed this. I assume that double and triple pane glazing drives some of it, and with thin siding on the outside and drywall on the inside, the walls are thinner on cheap houses. It makes houses look like trailers and I suspect that it's the reason why so many newer houses leak around the windows. If the glass is set in, a ledge at the top is properly flashed and the sill at the bottom protrudes beyond the siding, most of the water will be diverted to the ground, but if the window is sticking out, and even worse, surrounded by the J-channel they use with vinyl siding, much of the water is going behind the siding and the only thing keeping it out of the house is the seal between the housewrap and the window. Not good.

[@BrentHull]

Not good is right.

[@biggerock]

I learned how to replace broken sash cords, and saved all the wooden double- hung windows in my 1910 house.

[@BrentHull]

God bless you.

[@magdavelas]

what about double or triple pane windows? it would insulate for temperature and outside reduce noise.

[@Bdj2012]

I was wondering the same thing. I like the wood and shadow lines. In Northern Wisconsin winters get pretty cold though, double insulated is sure nice too.

[@kurtvonfricken6829]

@@Bdj2012 I think in some areas it is code.

[@BrentHull]

This isn't an energy efficiency video, i have done other videos on window efficiency that addresses that question. Windows like these will not last 10 years and because the frames are so flimsy will not reduce noise. Insulated glass is a poor source for sound. Laminated glass is better to reduce sound/noise.

[@NathanielElkins]

@BrentHull it would be great if you could do a video on some of the differences in energy efficiency of double glazed windows vs single glazed windows with interior or exterior storms. Also, what your recommendation is for interior and exterior storm windows. For example, can the seal be much better with an interior storm window? Also it seems like they are much easier to put on and take off, especially on second/third floors. Would love for you to go further in-depth on this!

[@NathanielElkins]

Also Accoya vs sapele, etc, or other possible wood options.

[@BrentHull]

Working on testing now. THx

[@pwblackmore]

OK - I'm with you. But in Canada, exterior walls are 2x6 - an even bigger reveal. One tip I came across was to have the rough opening formed with 2x4s within a 2x6 'main'rough opening, such that the window is now set back 2". A window manufacturer happily told me how that would reduce the effect of air blowing across the facade, and reduce heat loss. And, of course, it looks far superior... a little more work trimming out, but quality shows.

[@BrentHull]

Yep. great point. Thanks.

[@MS-ig7ku]

Those vinyl windows have a service life of five to twenty years. I don't understand the finger joint thing, framing grade soild lumber would be better.

[@BrentHull]

Noted. thanks.

[@davideastham]

Thank you for the video. I was not aware they were building windows line that. Talk about ugly. I have better windows on my garage.

[@BrentHull]

Yes. Thx.

[@edwardfitzpatrick1206]

Thanks I support you I greatly appreciate your fight against but taste.

[@BrentHull]

I appreciate that

[@CharlesKruger1942]

Fantastic video, our local review board only cares about material and is oblivious to this issue

[@BrentHull]

Yep. Thx.

[@dustbat]

I will keep my M&W historic mutt windows built in 1988. Adding PVC moldings has added life time. Now some companies are saying "even if you have replaced your windows 7 years ago you may need new ones". That is a beautiful window you show but it is very expensive. On the other hand, all new windows from even largest sellers appear to be pure ugly junk.🦇

[@BrentHull]

Thanks for sharing.

[@sunbeltliving]

Excellent video! Thank you

[@BrentHull]

You are welcome! Thx for watching.

[@windrider5845]

Thank goodness someone else saying what I’ve been saying for over a decade!! I hate these cheap and ugly architecture!!! 😣

[@BrentHull]

Great minds!!

[@famousutopias]

Agreed. I have an image folder with the street views of houses (and a few photographs) in my 1920s-1930s neighborhood before their windows replaced with vinyl So I can punish myself with remembering what was 🙃 I’ve maintained mine and they all work and seal properly. I have to chase the window salesmen away with a broom :-)

[@OrganicGreens]

IM considering replacing my awning windows from the 50's. Not really sure if there worth restoring. They don't seal well and have this weird spring mounted storm window that makes it imposable to clean in-between without removing a spring assembly thing and unscrewing them from a wood frame. The bug screens go in the inside also which is annoying.

[@BrentHull]

Understood, hopefully now understanding how cheap some new windows are, you can make a better selection. Good luck.

[@ericmoses8281]

The hard part for me is availability. There isn't much of a local millwork place here so it's down to what you can get off the shelf at home Depot. I'd be happy to use high quality woods for my finishes, but finding someone who's going to sell them to me in bulk without some boutique mark up? Forget about it.

[@BrentHull]

If you have a Home Depot in your area, you most likely have a custom mill. Check it out before throwing out the baby with the bath water.

[@pcatful]

I'd love to use your windows in project. I wrote a long note and lost it when I bumped the mouse. Anyway there are hurdles to doing so and one is cost. People don't build for 20 years let along 100 years.

[@BrentHull]

Yes, we are in sad place. The point was not to promote our window. I would hope people will not choose the cheapest/worst thing.

[@jamesbizs]

20 years? Of course people build for 20 years. But past that? Let alone 100? Yeah, no.

[@jamesbizs]

@@BrentHullwe aren’t in a sad place lol. People just don’t have 6 figures to spend on windows.