Preservation respects the original design and materials of the building, which increases the value and appeal of the property. The techniques of preservation will extend the life of the original materials. These techniques include:
Rot stabilization and repair - rot happens, but replacement may not be necessary. Rot, caused by fungus, feeds on the wood cellulose fiber changing it to a spongy material. At advanced stages, it may shrink into blocks. Left unstopped, it will grow. Rot can be removed and growth stopped by using non-toxic borate fungicide treatments. Penetrating epoxy consolidants can be applied to the surface of the affected area, and the area filled with epoxy fillers.
Sealing weathered wood - the cycle of wetting and drying exposed wood causes longitudinal cracks to open between the fibers. Filling the cracks with epoxy re-binds the wood and excludes water.
Re-glazing - old putty joining the glass to the sash dries out, becomes brittle, and falls out completely. This can be renewed carefully without breaking the glass, important because replacement glass will not have the same surface waviness of the original. Glazing prevents the entry of water into the wood, so you won't need....
Paint removal and surface preparation- eventually too much of a good thing has to go for the new paint to adhere properly. This can be done only where needed to protect the woodwork, or over the entire window if a higher level of finish is desired.
Sealant and painting - joints between different materials are sealed with silicone-acrylic, bare wood primed with alkyd-oil primer, and painted with latex paint for a durable weather resistant finish.