A Homeowner's Guide to Replacing Windows in a Historic Oklahoma Home

Owning a historic home in Oklahoma is a unique privilege, a connection to the architectural heritage that defines neighborhoods from Oklahoma City to Tulsa. But that historic charm often comes with original windows that are inefficient, drafty, and difficult to operate. Many of these older double-hung windows are built with single-pane wood sashes—a past technology that lacks the thermal barriers found in modern systems. This results in significant energy efficiency loss, as these thin glass barriers do little to stop heat transfer during Oklahoma's extreme temperature swings. For homeowners considering a window replacement project, the central challenge is clear: how do you gain modern energy efficiency and comfort without sacrificing the architectural integrity that makes your home special?

This guide will walk you through the essential considerations for selecting replacement windows that both honor your home's style and meet the demands of our regional climate. From navigating historic district rules to choosing the right materials for Oklahoma's weather, here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.

What windows are allowed in a historic district?

This is the most critical question for homeowners in protected neighborhoods like Oklahoma City's Heritage Hills and Mesta Park or Tulsa's Maple Ridge and Brady Heights. Window replacement in a designated historic district is not a simple DIY project; it's a process governed by local preservation commissions that have specific guidelines to protect the area's architectural character.

Generally, these commissions require that any replacement windows closely replicate the appearance of the original, historic windows. This includes matching details like:

• The dimensions and proportions of the window sash and frame.
• The pattern of grilles or divided lites.
• The profile and finish of the exterior trim.

In most cases, you cannot simply install a standard, off-the-shelf window. Full window replacement often requires a formal design review where you may need to demonstrate that your original windows are beyond practical repair. Because of this high bar, many local guidelines, including those in Oklahoma City, encourage less invasive options that preserve the original window frames and character.

Can you replace windows in a historic district?

Yes, you can replace windows in a historic district, but it must be done in compliance with local preservation standards. While some commissions may prefer homeowners to repair original windows and add storm windows, full replacement is often necessary when original windows are severely deteriorated, structurally unsound, or functionally inoperable.

When full replacement is the best path forward, the key is choosing a solution that meets the strict aesthetic requirements of the preservation board. This is where custom-built replacement windows become essential. Unlike stock windows, custom windows from a specialist like Renewal by Andersen are designed and manufactured to replicate the specific architectural details of your home's era, whether it's a Victorian, Craftsman, or Colonial Revival.

Our design consultants are experienced in working with the unique requirements of historic homes across Oklahoma, Dallas-Fort Worth, and other regional markets. We can help you design a replacement window using modern, high-performance materials like our exclusive Fibrex® composite material and advanced energy-efficient glass, all while maintaining the authentic look your historic district requires.

What are the best windows for historic homes?

The "best" window for a historic home depends entirely on two factors: your home's architectural style and your local climate. A window that's perfect for the extreme heat of Phoenix would be different from one designed for the high-altitude UV exposure in Denver.

Performance for Oklahoma's Climate: In Oklahoma City and Tulsa, we face hot, humid summers and variable winters. This means windows must be excellent at managing moisture to prevent condensation and potential rot, while also insulating against seasonal temperature swings. Our Fibrex® material frames are ideal for this environment; they resist the expansion and contraction that can lead to seal failure and are impervious to moisture and decay. Paired with our High-Performance Low-E4® glass, they help keep your home comfortable year-round.

Architectural Authenticity: Matching your home's style is paramount. Renewal by Andersen offers a wide range of customization options to replicate the signature look of various architectural periods:

• Victorian: We can replicate the ornate, multi-paned upper sashes common in Queen Anne and Folk Victorian homes.
• Craftsman: Our windows can be designed with the clean, geometric grille patterns (like 4-over-1 or 6-over-1) that define the simple, strong lines of Craftsman architecture.
• Colonial Revival: We can match the symmetrical facades and vertically-oriented, multi-pane double-hung windows characteristic of this timeless style.
• Spanish Mission Revival: For homes with this Southwestern influence, we can create custom arched windows that capture the style's distinctive silhouette.

Are storm windows a good option for historic preservation?

Yes, adding storm windows to existing, well-maintained historic windows is an excellent, preservation-friendly option that is encouraged by many historic commissions. Research from the National Park Service confirms that a properly repaired historic window paired with a high-quality storm window can achieve energy performance comparable to a new double-pane replacement window.

This approach is often the most cost-effective and regulatorily simple path, as it preserves 100% of the original, character-defining window material. However, storm windows are not a universal solution. They do not solve underlying issues like wood rot in the original frame, permanently fogged glass in older double-pane windows, or sashes that are painted shut or difficult to operate.

If your existing windows are failing, inoperable, or structurally compromised, a full window replacement with a historically accurate design is the superior long-term solution. It addresses the root problems while providing all the benefits of modern operation, low maintenance, and superior energy efficiency.

Find the Perfect Balance for Your Historic Home

Replacing windows in a historic Oklahoma home requires a delicate balance of respecting the past and embracing modern performance. Navigating local regulations, architectural styles, and climate demands can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. The experts at Renewal by Andersen are ready to help. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our design team today, and let us help you find the perfect, historically sensitive replacement windows that will enhance your home's beauty, comfort, and efficiency for years to come.