How many modern, even so called well build homes will still be standing in 150 years time? A home is only as good as the materials and skills used in the construction of it. Laminate flooring comes with a 10 maybe 30 year guarantee. Plastic replacement windows degrade over 15 to 20 years and the sealed units break down.
Traditional well made wooden windows, flooring, and woodwork have a very long life span. Many historic homes still have their original woodwork and wood windows in good condition over a century later. The reason for this is simple; superior craftsmanship and better grade materials were used in the original construction.
Is it possible to build this type of long lasting woodwork today? Yes it is traditional joinery techniques can still be used to build and restore old woodwork. The mortise and tenon joint is a very strong and proven woodworking joint, used in wood windows, doors, paneling, and furniture. It is still possible to use better quality wood today; making windows in Douglas fir is far superior to eastern white pine and the material cost difference is insignificant in relation to the increased life span of the window.
KS
