Enhance your building’s efficiency with non-intrusive custom storm window inserts designed specifically for heritage conservation and period-accurate protection.
Why Windows Matter in Heritage Buildings
In heritage conservation projects, protecting original craftsmanship is a priority. Many landmark buildings feature single-pane glass and ornate wood sashes that are essential to their character. Magnetite offers a specialized approach to retrofitting windows in an old house or civic building, providing a reversible, non-intrusive solution that allows original elements to remain untouched.
Our custom storm window inserts are installed on the interior to create a sealed, insulated air cavity. This slim magnetic system fits perfectly into the irregular or out-of-square frames common in historic architecture without altering exterior sightlines. By stabilizing interior temperatures and reducing condensation, Magnetite protects original wood and leaded glass from long-term damage. This makes retrofitting windows an ideal choice for meeting modern energy standards while fully complying with heritage building guidelines.
HOW IT WORKS
Magnetite’s Preservation Solution
01
Inspection & Measurement
Frames, sashes and glass are assessed; exact interior jamb dimensions captured, including uneven openings.
02
Custom Fabrication
Clear acrylic or glass panels and slim magnetic or compression-fit frames are built to match original window geometry.
03
Interior Mounting
Installed on inside trim or jambs; no exterior disturbance or window removal.
04
Reversible Access
Panels lift off for cleaning and seasonal needs, supporting long term conservation.
key advantages
Preserving the Past,
Protecting the Future
Protecting the Future
Fully Reversible Design
Our inserts are non-permanent and require no structural changes, making them 100% compliant with strict historic preservation standards.
Maintains Original Aesthetics
Because the system is installed on the interior, the exterior appearance and historical character of your building remain completely unchanged.
Custom Geometric Fit
The magnetic mounting system is custom-fabricated to match specialty shapes and out-of-square frames often found in older masonry and wood construction.
Preserves Original Materials
By creating a thermal buffer, Magnetite reduces the condensation that often leads to rot in original wood frames and deterioration of leaded glass.
MAGNETITE APPLICATIONS
Magnetite for Historic Properties
- Historic Homes &
Period Residences
Retain original sashes, mullions, and glass while improving comfort. Ideal for wood double-hung, casement, and leaded windows where replacement is restricted. - Institutional & Public Buildings
Museums, churches, schools, and civic buildings gain energy and acoustic upgrades with minimal disruption and no change to the exterior profile. - Commercial Heritage Properties
Hotels, offices, and adaptive reuse projects reduce street noise and drafts, supporting occupancy comfort and operational savings.
What Our Customers Are Saying
Our Customers Frequently Asked Us
FAQ’s
How does Magnetite support heritage conservation and historic preservation?
Our system is designed to provide modern insulation and acoustic benefits while keeping original wood, leaded glass, and historical profiles untouched. Because the system is installed on the interior, it aligns with heritage conservation guidelines that prioritize the repair and retention of original materials rather than replacement.
Is retrofitting windows in an old house better than replacing them?
In most cases, yes. Retrofitting windows in an old house with Magnetite allows you to achieve energy efficiency at 40% to 60% less cost than full window replacements. It preserves the cultural value and craftsmanship of the building while providing the comfort of modern double glazing.
Are your custom storm window inserts reversible?
Yes, our custom storm window inserts are non-permanent and remain fully reversible. This is a critical requirement for many historic preservation projects, as it ensures the building can be returned to its original state without any structural changes or damage to the frames.
Can Magnetite handle the out-of-square frames often found when retrofitting windows?
Old houses rarely have perfectly square window frames. Magnetite uses precision measuring and templates to accommodate the irregular or “out-of-square” frames common in handcrafted heritage casements. The slim magnetic mounting system ensures a tight, custom seal regardless of the window’s age.
How do these inserts protect original wood and leaded glass?
A major threat to historic windows is moisture. Magnetite creates a warmer interior surface that reduces fog and frost, providing essential condensation protection. This helps prevent the moisture damage and rot that often affect original wood frames and historic finishes.
Will custom storm window inserts change the look of my building?
Not at all. Because Magnetite installs on the interior, it avoids any exterior alterations and preserves the original sightlines of the property. This makes it an ideal solution for buildings located in protected historical districts where exterior changes are strictly regulated.
Can I still open my windows for ventilation?
Yes. Magnetite panels are lightweight and easily removed from their magnetic frames for cleaning or seasonal airflow. This allows you to enjoy the functionality of your original windows while benefiting from modern insulation when they are closed.
Do these inserts help with noise in urban heritage areas?
Yes, Magnetite is highly effective for noise reduction. The interior air cavity and acoustic-grade acrylic act as a buffer against outside noise, which is ideal for heritage buildings located in busy urban cores near traffic or transit.
