A better approach, of course, would be to analyze the condition of each window. Should it be repaired or replaced? If it should be repaired, shouldn’t you replace and reglaze the glass after stripping the paint from everything including the frame, then find a way to insulate the window frame for greater energy efficiency?

It takes about two days per window. I know. I did 31 of them in my old house. A better idea would be to install a sash replacement kit, which uses the original window jambs so you don’t have to mess with the trim or inside and outside walls.

You take out the old window stops (which crack no matter what) and install vinyl jamb liners and wood or vinyl sashes, creating a new, energy-efficient window. I’m a great believer in recycling old materials. But getting old doors, molding, radiators, or mantelpieces ready for reuse is both time consuming and labor intensive.

Say you need to replace a door. The old opening is 32 by 84 inches, but standard doors, thanks to modern code, are 36 inches by 80 inches. The expensive solution is to order a custom-made door, costing up to $1,000. The inexpensive solution is to pick up a used door from a salvage yard for $10, but the used door has to be stripped, sanded, and refinished.

The hardware has to be replaced, and because you can’t find it in the home center, it has to be specially ordered. Old doors are often warped, and openings are usually out of plumb, and a lot of carpentry will be needed to get the door operating properly.

The total cost of the replacement door might be $100, but how much is your time worth? If you make $40 an hour at your regular job, the amount of time you spend working on one door may approach the cost of a custom door.

How valuable is your time? And is the satisfaction you get doing the job enough compensation?

Related posts:

1. Dealing with New House (2)
2. The dos when emergency comes
3. Spruce Up Your Home as an Improvement
4. Double Look of Solar Energy Part One
5. Save from Fire in Apartment!