As summer fades and the cooler months approach, New Orleans homeowners begin preparing their houses for the seasonal shift. For those living in historic homes, fall is an ideal time to address window upgrades that balance preservation with performance. Old wooden windows often hold immense architectural and cultural value, but they also require proper care to withstand shifting temperatures, humidity, and storm season. At Franklin Construction & Design, we specialize in helping homeowners make smart updates that keep their property both authentic and functional during the fall season.
Protecting Against Moisture and Drafts
One of the biggest challenges with older windows is their vulnerability to moisture and air leaks. As fall rains increase, water infiltration can quickly lead to rotted frames, mold growth, and damaged plaster. Drafts also make your home harder to heat efficiently, driving up energy bills. With careful restoration and targeted window upgrades, these issues can be resolved. Weatherstripping, sash repair, and reglazing can seal your windows against the elements while maintaining their original character. These improvements prepare your historic home to handle fall’s unpredictable climate.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency Without Losing Charm
New Orleans is known for its unique architecture, and no homeowner wants to sacrifice authenticity for efficiency. Fortunately, you don’t have to. Installing interior or exterior storm windows is an excellent way to boost insulation while preserving original wood sashes and panes. Modern storm windows are subtle, often virtually invisible from the street, yet they dramatically reduce heat loss and improve comfort. By combining these upgrades with minor repairs, you can extend the life of your existing historic windows while making your home cozier for the fall and winter seasons.
Maintaining Historic Character During Upgrades
Any homeowner involved in home restoring in New Orleans knows that balancing modern convenience with preservation is key. The wrong window replacement can permanently alter the look of your property and even conflict with local preservation guidelines. Franklin Construction & Design ensures that all window upgrades respect the home’s original proportions, muntin patterns, and materials. Whether repairing original sashes or fabricating custom replicas, our approach keeps the historic essence intact while preparing the property for the cooler months ahead.
Preparing for Storm Season
In addition to cooler temperatures, fall in New Orleans often means the height of hurricane season. Older windows can be especially vulnerable to high winds and flying debris. Upgrading them with protective storm panels or laminated glass options can add an extra layer of security without disrupting the home’s historic look. These upgrades not only safeguard your property but also provide peace of mind during the unpredictable fall weather. Proper preparation today can prevent costly damage tomorrow.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Beyond major window upgrades, simple seasonal maintenance can make a big difference. Homeowners should check for peeling paint, soft spots in the wood, and weakened glazing putty before the cooler, wetter months arrive. Applying fresh coats of protective paint, repairing small cracks, and ensuring windows open and close properly all contribute to a longer lifespan and improved comfort. These small efforts, combined with expert restoration when needed, ensure your historic home remains strong, efficient, and beautiful.
Conclusion
As fall approaches, there’s no better time to prepare your historic home with the right window upgrades. From sealing drafts to reinforcing against storms, Franklin Construction & Design brings unmatched expertise in home restoring in New Orleans. Our team ensures every project balances modern performance with historic authenticity, protecting your home’s legacy while making it more comfortable and secure.
Ready to prepare your historic home for the season ahead? Contact Franklin Construction & Design today and discover how thoughtful window upgrades can preserve your property’s charm while keeping it ready for fall.