Wood Windows: Beauty, Maintenance, and Modern Options

Wood windows remain the gold standard for appearance. According to the National Park Service, wood windows in historic homes have often lasted 100+ years with proper maintenance.

Why Wood

According to FGIA and architectural design standards:

Aesthetics: No synthetic material perfectly matches wood's warmth and depth

Historic appropriateness: Often required in historic districts and for period homes

Customization: Easily shaped into complex profiles and custom sizes

Repairability: Can be repaired rather than replaced when damaged

Insulation: Wood is a natural insulator

The Maintenance Reality

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, wood windows require:

Regular painting/staining: Every 3-5 years for exterior surfaces

Inspection: Annual checks for water damage, especially at sills and joints

Caulking: Regular reapplication at joints and glazing

Hardware care: Lubrication and adjustment of hinges and locks

Wood windows that aren't maintained will deteriorate. According to NPS, most failures are from deferred maintenance, not material defects.

Modern Wood-Clad Options

According to FGIA, the solution for many homeowners is wood-clad windows:

| Feature | All-Wood | Clad-Wood |
|---------|----------|-----------|
| Interior | Wood | Wood |
| Exterior | Wood | Aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass |
| Maintenance | High | Low |
| Appearance inside | Traditional | Traditional |
| Weather exposure | Direct | Protected |
| Cost | $$$ | $$$$ |

Wood-clad windows give you wood appearance inside with weatherproof cladding outside—dramatically reducing maintenance.

Best For

According to DOE and NPS, wood windows make sense for:

• Historic homes requiring period-appropriate materials
• Homeowners who value natural materials
• Those willing to maintain them properly
• Custom shapes and sizes
• Areas with mild, dry climates

Idaho Considerations

Idaho's dry climate is actually favorable for wood windows compared to humid regions. However, according to DOE, sun exposure on south and west elevations accelerates paint failure. Consider clad options for these exposures.

The Bottom Line

Wood windows remain beautiful and appropriate for many homes—but require commitment to maintenance. Clad options preserve interior beauty while minimizing exterior upkeep.

*For all frame materials compared, see: [Window Frame Materials](/guides/window-frame-materials)*