3 Woods You Should Never Use to Build Windows
The article warns builders and restorers that pressure‑treated pine, poplar, and red oak are poor choices for wood windows because they warp, rot, and reject paint. It explains how moisture cycles and temperature swings stress window sashes, leading to joint failure and costly repairs. The author recommends species with natural rot resistance, dimensional stability, and paint compatibility, highlighting modern acetylated wood like Accoya as the most reliable, albeit pricier, option. Choosing the right wood can dramatically extend a window’s service life and reduce maintenance.
Passive Solar Design in Old Houses: What Builders Already Knew
Pre‑1940 homes, especially Victorian houses, were built with passive solar principles that captured, stored, and redistributed sunlight without mechanical systems. Features such as south‑facing bay windows, thick masonry walls, deep eaves, and attached conservatories acted as solar collectors and thermal...