Historic Preservation Learning Hub

Here you’ll find a curated collection of resources to help you understand, care for, and preserve your historic building. Explore guides, videos, articles, and trusted links covering restoration techniques, historically-compatible material choices, maintenance tips, and preservation best practices.

FAQs

Why should I restore my historic windows instead of replacing them?

Historic windows are built with high-quality old-growth wood and repairable parts. Restoring them typically lasts longer, maintains the home’s character, and is often more cost-effective over time.

How do I know if my windows are restorable?

Most historic windows are repairable—even with rot, broken glass, stuck sashes, or failing putty. Total replacement is rarely necessary unless the frame is structurally unsound.

Will restored windows be energy efficient?

Yes. When properly restored and paired with weatherstripping and a storm window, historic windows can perform as well as, or better than, many modern replacements.

Can I stay in my home during window restoration?

Usually, yes. We work in controlled areas and keep windows secure. For large projects, we schedule work in phases to minimize disruption.

My historic windows are painted shut and won't open. Can you make them work again?

Yes! Painted-shut historic windows can usually be restored to open and operate smoothly. We carefully free the sash by scoring and gently loosening stuck paint, repair or replace damaged parts like sash cords or rotted wood, reglaze or repaint as needed, and adjust the window for smooth movement. The result is a fully functional, preserved historic window that maintains its original character.

My historic windows open, but they don’t stay up without propping them. Can you fix that?

Yes! This usually happens when the sash cords, weights, or pulleys inside the window are worn, broken, or missing. We can repair or replace these components, balance the sash properly, and ensure it stays open safely. After restoration, your window will move smoothly and remain in position without needing to prop it up, all while preserving its historic character.

What does historic restoration consulting involve?

Consulting includes evaluating your historic building, identifying preservation/maintenance needs, recommending appropriate historically-compatible materials and techniques, and guiding you through restoration or repair projects.

Do you offer on-site assessments for historic properties?

Absolutely. We can visit your property to inspect structural conditions, architectural features, and historic materials, then provide a detailed report with recommendations.

Can you replicate damaged or missing historic trim?

Yes. We can carefully measure, reproduce, and install trim and millwork that matches the original profiles, wood species, and finishes, ensuring a seamless restoration.

Can architectural carpentry upgrades be done without altering historic character?

Absolutely. Our work balances safety, functionality, and modern standards while respecting the original design, style, and materials of your historic building.

Who can attend your workshops?

Our workshops are open to anyone interested in learning historic building and preservation skills, from beginners to experienced craftspeople. No prior experience is required for most classes.

Can our organization host a lecture on historic preservation or restoration?

Yes! Through our school "The Forks School of Historic Preservation," we offer customized lectures for organizations, preservation societies, schools, and professional groups. Topics cover historic preservation principles, restoration techniques, and traditional building skills, and can be paired with hands-on workshops for a more engaging learning experience.

What types of workshops do you offer?

We offer hands-on workshops in historic window restoration, architectural carpentry, and other historic building/preservation skills for homeowners, enthusiasts, and professionals.

How do I register for a workshop?

You can register directly on our website through the workshop registration page. Payments are processed securely online.

How long are the workshops?

Workshops typically range from one-day to three-day sessions, depending on the topic. Each session includes hands-on learning and demonstration.

What materials or tools are included?

We provide all necessary PPE (aprons, masks, gloves) and basic tools for the workshop. Students are encouraged to bring notebooks for reference.

Where are workshops held?

All workshops take place in Albion, MI. Mornings begin with a "classroom" portion held in the carriage house of the historic Palmer House Bed & Breakfast; afternoons involve "hands-on" learning at a nearby historic building that is currently under restoration.

Can I sign up as a group?

Yes! We welcome small groups, organizations, and government localities. Group registration may qualify for discounts—contact us for details.

Are there accommodations for out-of-town students?

Yes! We partner with The Palmer House Bed & Breakfast, a local historic bed & breakfast offering exclusive student discounts for overnight stays. Overnight accommodations must be booked directly with the bed & breakfast.

Will I receive a certificate or completion acknowledgment?

Yes. After completing the workshop, students receive a certificate of participation, and access to post-workshop resources and guides.

What is your travel range for restoration projects or workshops?

We primarily serve south central Michigan and surrounding areas, but travel farther for select projects, workshops, or lectures. Travel fees may apply depending on distance. Please contact us with your location and project details so we can provide a clear plan and estimate.

Historic Building Resources

National Park Service – Preservation Briefs

- Offers in-depth guides on repairing and maintaining historic structures, including windows, woodwork, and materials.

Historic Preservation Tax Incentives

- Information about tax credit for the qualified rehabilitation of historic, income-producing buildings. It includes guidance on eligible projects, the certification process, and preservation standards, helping property owners reduce costs while maintaining historic integrity.

Michigan Historic Preservation Network

- Local guidance, workshops, and advocacy for preserving historic structures in Michigan.

National Trust for Historic Preservation

- Provides practical guides, tips, and case studies to help homeowners and preservation enthusiasts care for and maintain historic properties.

Preservation Directory

- A directory of professionals, suppliers, and educational resources for preservation work.

Preservation Directory's Bookstore

- A wonderfully curated list of books for all things preservation!

Window Preservation Alliance

- A national nonprofit dedicated to preserving historic windows through education and best-practice guidance. While we provide window restoration services in our local region (south central Michigan), this site offers a nationwide directory of qualified window-restoration professionals for those outside our region.

Historic Preservation Learning Hub

FAQs

What is your travel range for restoration projects or workshops?

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Historic Building Resources

Frost Historic Restoration, LLC