It may surprise you that a Minneapolis area replacement window company like ours at times will recommend that you NOT replace your windows. And while the modern technology that today’s replacement windows incorporates can improve the energy efficiency of your home and make it more comfortable in the process, there are times when we meet with prospective customers that we’ve got other thoughts. If you own a Minnesota historic home (or even an older home with high-quality wood windows), this post is for you. ©
Mon-Ray acoustic storms can be custom manufactured to fit any existing window size or shape, including round windows. (Photo courtesy of Mon-Ray)
One thing that attracts buyers to historic homes or older homes such as authentic Craftsman bungalows is the gorgeous woodwork. Many of these homes still have the original wood windows. And as a Minneapolis area replacement window company specializing in historic homes, we can tell you that many of those houses we’ve been in have windows that are downright stunning. The workmanship and construction details can’t be matched.
Those old windows might not fit well in their openings, and they are almost all constructed with a single pane of glass, but the lumber that was used back in the day cannot be matched with what’s on the market now. That’s just one reason why we tell people who ask about having their old windows torn out that if those windows aren’t falling apart, leave them in place.
And then protect the wood exterior from the deteriorating effects of our weather while adding another insulating layer to cut out drafts and make them more energy efficient with Mon-Ray acoustic storm windows.
Why Mon-Ray storms? Yes, you can get storm windows from a number of manufacturers, but Mon-Ray is the expert in the field of window protection for historic buildings. You’ll find their storm windows have been used in preservation projects all over the country on everything from Victorian bed and breakfasts to college campuses. In fact, you’ll find them locally on historic commercial restoration projects such as the St. Anthony Library, the Minneapolis Club, and the Red Wing Correctional Facility. (You can visit Mon-Ray’s Gallery to see the results.)
Another benefit of these acoustic storms is that they reduce outside noise infiltration. In fact, Mon-Ray was chosen as an approved vendor for the Metropolitan Airport Commission’s 2017 Noise Mitigation project.
One last final thought. As much as possible, we believe in working with local companies. We believe it’s good for Minnesota’s economy, plus there is an environmental benefit to buying local and not having to ship something cross country. Mon-Ray is located in Minneapolis, so we are glad to partner with this company to provide energy-saving window solutions to homeowners in our area. And we’ve been able to install their fantastic storm windows on historic homes all over this part of the state, from Fairbault to Rosemont to Stillwater and places in between.
To find out more about how Mon-Ray storm windows could protect your home’s wood windows, contact us today for a free consultation. We offer in-person as well a virtual visits. Windows and doors for historic homes are our specialties.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
