Should I restore or replace my historic windows for lead compliance?

Restore when the sash is sound. Replace only the sash when it isn't. Either path can pass a lead inspection, and both keep your original frame and trim.

Restore when

• The wood is mostly solid (rot can be repaired with epoxy or new wood).
• The house is historic, or in a historic district that requires repair over replacement.
• You want to keep original glass and character.

Stripping to bare wood and refinishing is described as the most straightforward and sustainable lead fix in the 2025 Newport Restoration Foundation lead guide. See how a lead-safe window restoration works.

Replace the sash when

• Rot or past repairs have left too little original wood.
• A sash is missing or badly altered.
• You need a tighter energy upgrade on a non-historic elevation.

Custom replacement sash from Trimline Windows are built to the measurements of your existing frame, in all wood or with an aluminum-clad exterior. You keep the frame and trim and get new sash. See new windows for old homes.

What not to do

Don't tear out whole window units just because they contain lead paint. In Newport's Historic District, lead paint alone isn't grounds for replacement.

Not sure which way to go? Classic Door does both. Call (401) 266-4475 for an honest assessment.