RENOVATION OF HISTORIC WOODEN WINDOW FRAMES AS AN ANSWER TO THE CHALLENGES OF THE MODERN TIME

The subject of the research is the restoration of historic window frames in public and residential buildings in Poland. The considerations are based on examples of wooden windows, the preservation of which is the basis when carrying out conservation work. The paper presents a summary of methods for examining the existing condition of the windows, which precede the renovation process. It also points out the important role of the restoration of window joinery in terms of its total environmental impact. When properly repaired and upgraded, old windows can usually be brought to a condition comparable to new windows, and this approach is sustainable on many levels. The paper answers the question of why, how and to what extent it is worth renovating original preserved windows. The aim of the paper is to point out the right direction to take when practicing refurbishment of historic windows and to formulate guidelines as a starting point for detailed considerations.