Historical Research
Begin by familiarizing yourself with your home's architectural style and the period in which it was built. Learn about the types of windows, doors and details that were used at that time. Remember that former remodels over the years may have hidden the original details. Go to your local library or historical society and see if there are records available to help you understand the history of your home and community. You may uncover hidden gems that will help you restore your house to its original design.
Check Local and Federal Laws
Every state has a federally designated Historic Preservation Office (HPO) that has many resources on preservation and restoration. It will also have information about procedures and compliance for local building codes. If you have any questions about where to find information on Historic Preservation Laws, contact your local building department. Keep in mind that Historic Preservation Laws are not meant to prevent change, but rather to manage reasonable change.
National Register of Historic Places
Is your home in the National Register of Historic Places? This is an official list of places significant to American history and culture, including buildings, districts, sites, and structures. A registered historic building may need to follow strict federal regulations about preservation and maintenance, and may be eligible for additional benefits, such as tax credits.
Find a Contractor
Get recommendations from other homeowners in the area who have experience with their own historic renovations. Locate and interview restoration specialists in your area. If possible, choose a contractor or specialist who has at least five years of experience in the field. Lastly, check their references and ask to visit other homes they have restored.
Look for Funding
Historic renovations often cost more than a typical remodel, but you may have additional sources of funding available. You may qualify for a grant or a special mortgage loan. Another option is a preservation easement. Research additional information or contact your local accountant or tax professional, who may be able to advise you on all your funding options and tax incentives.
JELD-WEN offers a wide variety of window, interior and exterior door styles to make your renovation accurate and more energy efficient. We can also match the colors you need — which is particularly important if you are receiving grant funding for your project.
Energy Efficiency
Many older homes, including historical ones, have inefficient single-pane windows. Also, over time, window frames and doorways can become warped and create leaks. Upgrading to modern windows and doors can deliver improved efficiency without compromising historical authenticity.
Keep a Record
Pictures of your historic home are important. Keep the memories alive by taking before-and-after-photographs. They will become a part of history as they are passed down to future generations.
Common Architectural Styles
JELD-WEN has a breadth of window and door choices to complement any architectural style, with real wood in various wood species and finishes, or even Aurora® Custom Fiberglass, which offers the look and warmth of real wood with reduced maintenance.
- 1600-1800 American Colonial Styles
- 1780-1860 Classical Styles
- 1840-1900 Victorian
- 1880-1929 Gilded Age (Industrialism)
- 1901-1955 Frank Lloyd Wright
- 1905-1945 Early 20th Century
- 1945-1980 Post-War (WWII)
- 1930-present Modernist
Matching windows and doors to your architectural style can be one of the most challenging aspects of your restoration. Below is a list of architectural styles that you can match with JELD-WEN® windows and doors:
