7 Best-Selling Home Windows Books Millions Love

Recommended by restoration experts Terry Meany, Steve Jordan, and Scott R Young, these Home Windows books offer best-selling insights homeowners trust.

Updated on June 24, 2025
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When millions of readers and top experts agree, you know you've found something valuable. Home windows aren't just about letting light in—they shape comfort, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. With rising interest in historic preservation and sustainability, trusted guidance on window restoration and replacement has never been more sought after.

Experts like Terry Meany, known as "Mr. Window" for his thousands of repairs in Seattle, and Steve Jordan, a Cornell-trained preservationist with five decades of old-house experience, have shaped how homeowners approach window care. Their books, alongside insight from energy efficiency advocate Scott R Young, have inspired countless readers to confidently tackle window projects.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks and practical knowledge, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Home Windows needs might consider creating a personalized Home Windows book that combines these validated approaches with your unique goals and experience.

Best for restoring historic wood windows
Terry Meany has repaired thousands of windows in the Seattle area, earning him the nickname "Mr. Window." His extensive experience in window repair and restoration makes him a trusted authority in the field. Driven by a passion to help homeowners preserve original craftsmanship, Meany wrote this guide to make wood window restoration accessible without professional help, covering every component with clear illustrations and updated cleaning techniques.
2008·240 pages·Home Windows, Wood Repair, Window Restoration, Weather Stripping, Sash Repair

After repairing thousands of wood windows in Seattle, Terry Meany developed this detailed guide to empower homeowners in restoring their own antique windows. You learn how to address every part of a window—from weather stripping and pulleys to sashes, hinges, and glass—using clear illustrations and practical instructions. The book even covers refinishing techniques and a new section on window cleaning, making it a solid manual for hands-on restoration. If you own an older home or enjoy do-it-yourself projects that preserve original craftsmanship, this book gives you the skills to confidently tackle wood window repair yourself.

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Best for old-house restoration professionals
Steve Jordan has worked in the old-house restoration business for fifty years, repairing thousands of windows in both ordinary and historically significant homes. A graduate of Cornell University's Historic Preservation Planning program and former contributing editor for Old-House Journal, Jordan brings unmatched expertise to this guide. His extensive hands-on experience and preservation knowledge make this book a trusted resource for anyone tackling wood window repair and restoration, emphasizing sustainable solutions and practical techniques.
2015·264 pages·Home Windows, Window Repair, Historic Preservation, Woodworking, Energy Efficiency

Steve Jordan's decades of experience in old-house restoration have culminated in this detailed guide on maintaining and restoring historic wood windows. Drawing from his work with thousands of windows and his background in historic preservation planning, Jordan equips you with practical skills like sash removal, glazing techniques, weather-sealing, and carpentry repairs including Dutchman patches and epoxy fixes. The book also covers energy-efficient storm window options and safe painting practices to avoid sticky sashes and lead hazards. Whether you’re a homeowner or a restoration professional, this book helps you assess window conditions and make informed decisions beyond replacement sales pitches.

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Best for custom restoration plans
This AI-created book on wood window restoration is crafted based on your background, skill level, and specific interests. You share which restoration topics matter most to you, from glazing to wood repair, and the book focuses on those areas to help you achieve your goals. Personalizing the learning process in this way makes tackling wood window projects more approachable and aligned with your unique needs.
2025·50-300 pages·Home Windows, Wood Repair, Sash Restoration, Glazing Techniques, Weatherproofing

This tailored book explores step-by-step restoration methods specifically designed for wood home windows, focusing on your unique background and goals. It covers essential techniques such as wood repair, sash restoration, glazing, and weatherproofing, all adapted to match your interests and skill level. By combining proven procedures with insights drawn from millions of successful restorations, it reveals practical knowledge that respects traditional craftsmanship while addressing modern challenges. The personalized content ensures you engage with material that directly supports your window restoration projects, making the learning experience both efficient and rewarding.

Tailored Guide
Restoration Expertise
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for DIY wood window restorers
Old Windows Made Easy offers a straightforward, user-friendly approach to restoring wood windows that has resonated with a broad audience of DIY enthusiasts. This book stands apart in the home windows category by stripping away technical complexity and focusing on accessible methods anyone can follow. Its step-by-step guidance covers everything from paint stripping to glazing and sash removal, making it an invaluable resource for homeowners aiming to preserve and enhance their windows' original charm. By addressing common restoration challenges with clear instructions, it fills a practical niche for those seeking professional-looking results without professional experience.
2014·76 pages·Home Windows, Window Restoration, Wood Repair, Paint Stripping, Glazing Techniques

During his extensive hands-on experience restoring wood windows, Scott A Sidler developed a clear, accessible method that demystifies the restoration process for homeowners with basic DIY skills. You’ll learn practical skills like removing and reinstalling window sashes, stripping old paint efficiently, and applying putty glazing with professional finesse. Sidler’s focus on straightforward, stepwise guidance ensures you avoid common pitfalls, such as improper paint removal or glazing errors, empowering you to achieve results that look professionally done. This book suits anyone interested in preserving character windows without the overwhelm of technical jargon or exhaustive history, making it a pragmatic companion for both novices and seasoned DIYers.

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Best for energy-efficient window replacement
Beyond The Glass by Scott R Young offers a solid, practical perspective on window replacement, focusing on recent advances in glass technology that make old windows energy inefficient. The book guides you through understanding window labels, glazing types, and gas fills, helping you navigate the market confidently. It addresses key challenges like avoiding common installation errors and choosing windows that enhance comfort while minimizing energy use. For anyone facing the decision to replace home windows, this book provides a clear, experience-based framework to make informed choices.
2014·122 pages·Home Windows, Energy Efficiency, Window Technology, Glazing Options, Installation Techniques

When Scott R Young noticed the inefficiencies in typical home windows, especially in harsh climates like Wisconsin, he set out to explain the evolving technology behind window replacement. His book breaks down the complexities of glazing options, such as single, double, and triple panes, and the role of gases like argon and krypton in insulation. You learn to decode window performance metrics and avoid common pitfalls in installation, whether DIY or contractor-led. This guide suits homeowners who want to upgrade their windows for comfort and energy savings without getting lost in technical jargon.

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The Homeowner's Guide to Buying Replacement Windows and Hiring Contractors offers a focused approach to one of the most daunting home improvement projects: window replacement. Drawing from practical experience, this guide demystifies both the product choices and the contractor selection process, equipping homeowners with clear steps to avoid common headaches and costly errors. Whether you're just beginning research or weighing multiple bids, it provides tools and insights designed to help you manage the entire project confidently. This book addresses a crucial need in the home windows field by helping homeowners save time and money while ensuring quality results.
2015·62 pages·Home Windows, Contractor Hiring, Installation Process, Product Selection, Project Management

What started as a straightforward homeowner's need became Peter Anthony Jackson's focused guide to replacing windows with confidence and clarity. He breaks down the complex process of selecting replacement windows and hiring contractors into manageable steps, helping you grasp the product benefits that truly matter and avoid common pitfalls. You'll learn how to evaluate multiple bids, find trustworthy contractors, and oversee installation to ensure quality results. This book is tailored specifically for homeowners—not DIY enthusiasts or renters—who want to save time, reduce headaches, and make informed decisions throughout the entire window replacement journey.

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Best for rapid energy upgrades
This AI-created book on window efficiency is designed around your specific interests, experience, and goals. You share your background and the exact window energy topics you want to explore, and the book is created to focus on the improvements that matter most to you. Because every home and situation is different, this tailored approach helps you learn the most relevant, actionable steps to boost your window energy performance quickly and effectively.
2025·50-300 pages·Home Windows, Window Efficiency, Energy Savings, Insulation Techniques, Sealing Methods

This tailored book explores fast, effective methods to enhance your windows' energy performance, focusing on practical improvements that align with your unique background and goals. It covers topics from insulation techniques to window sealing innovations, tailored to match your specific interests and home environment. By emphasizing proven approaches combined with personalized insights, this book reveals how small adjustments can lead to significant energy savings and increased comfort. You’ll find guidance on selecting materials, optimizing installation, and maintaining window efficiency over time. This personalized resource supports a focused learning experience, helping you implement changes confidently and see measurable results within just 90 days.

Tailored For You
Energy Performance Optimization
3,000+ Books Created
Best for stylish window treatment ideas
Great Windows & Walls Collection by Better Homes and Gardens stands out in the home windows field by offering more photos and ideas than typical window solution books. Its approach combines creative window treatments with wall colors for stylish, elegant home decor. This book provides homeowners with tips to choose perfect coverings and advice on working with professionals for custom treatments, addressing the practical needs of anyone looking to enhance their living space through thoughtful window styling.
Great Windows & Walls Collection (Better Homes and Gardens Home) book cover

by Better Homes and Gardens·You?

2005·288 pages·Home Windows, Interior Design, Window Treatments, Wall Colors, Curtains

Drawing from decades of interior design expertise, Better Homes and Gardens compiled this collection to fill the gap in practical, stylish window and wall treatment ideas. You get detailed visual guides and creative approaches for pairing curtains, valances, cornices, and shades with complementary wall colors, helping you refine your home's atmosphere with confidence. The chapters walk you through custom solutions and the nuances of materials and installation, offering insight into collaborating effectively with professionals. This book fits homeowners and decorators who want to elevate their spaces without guesswork, providing inspiration grounded in real-world application rather than abstract theory.

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Best for mastering draperies and curtains design
Brian D. Coleman, M.D., divides his time between New York and Seattle and brings his seasoned eye for design to this book. Known for authoring multiple titles on interiors and color, he leverages his deep understanding of architectural styles and decorating philosophies to guide you through selecting and crafting beautiful window dressings. His blend of detailed illustrations, watercolor artwork, and extensive resource listings equips you with both inspiration and practical direction for enhancing your home's windows.
2006·176 pages·Home Decorating, Home Windows, Interior Design, Curtain Construction, Drapery Styles

Drawing from his extensive experience and background in design, Brian Coleman examines the artistry and craft behind window treatments across diverse American cities in this book. You’ll learn how to select and create draperies and curtains tailored to different styles and architectural periods, supported by detailed illustrations and watercolor paintings that highlight construction techniques and design nuances. The book also provides practical knowledge through a glossary explaining specialized terms and a resource guide to connect you with designers nationwide. If you're passionate about interior design or renovating your home, this resource offers concrete skills to enhance your window aesthetics with informed choices.

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Proven Home Windows Methods, Personalized

Get popular, expert-backed strategies tailored to your unique Home Windows needs and goals.

Custom Focused Advice
Expertly Validated Approaches
Time-Saving Solutions

Trusted by thousands of Home Windows enthusiasts and experts worldwide

Window Restoration Code
90-Day Energy Upgrade
Stylish Window Secrets
Replacement Success Blueprint

Conclusion

This collection highlights clear themes: preserving historic wood windows with expert-approved restoration methods, confidently upgrading for energy efficiency, and enhancing home aesthetics through thoughtful window treatments. If you prefer proven hands-on methods, start with "Working Windows" or "The Window Sash Bible". For validated replacement strategies, combine "Beyond The Glass" with "The Homeowner's Guide to Buying Replacement Windows and Hiring Contractors".

For those aiming to blend these solid approaches with personal goals or unique home contexts, you can create a personalized Home Windows book to tailor expert insights precisely to your needs. These widely-adopted methods have helped many readers succeed and can help you make informed decisions about your home windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Working Windows" if you want hands-on restoration skills or "Beyond The Glass" for window replacement basics. Both offer clear, practical guidance tailored to different needs.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Home Windows?

Not at all. Books like "Old Windows Made Easy" break down restoration into simple steps, making them accessible for beginners while still valuable for experienced DIYers.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with restoration-focused books like "Working Windows" or "The Window Sash Bible" if you have older windows. Then explore replacement options with "Beyond The Glass" and contractor advice in Jackson’s guide.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your project—restoration, replacement, or design. Each book focuses on specific aspects, so choose what's most relevant to your home's needs.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

Most here emphasize practical skills. For example, "Window Dressings" and "Great Windows & Walls Collection" offer design insights, while "Working Windows" and "Old Windows Made Easy" focus on hands-on repair.

Can personalized books complement these expert guides?

Yes! While these expert books provide solid foundations, personalized Home Windows books combine proven methods with your unique goals and experience. Learn more here.

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