I totally get the appeal of wood windows—nothing beats their charm, especially in a coastal setting. We moved into our first home last year, and I was determined to keep the original wooden frames intact. Then came winter... and let's just say, my romantic notions about "authentic coastal living" took a hit when we had buckets catching drips in the dining room during Christmas dinner.
We eventually settled on aluminum-clad wood windows as a compromise. They still have that classic look, but they're way more weather-resistant. Installation wasn't exactly cheap, but neither was repeatedly patching up water damage every spring. Plus, there's something nice about not having to anxiously inspect window sills after every storm.
Anyway, props to you for keeping up the ritual! There's definitely something satisfying about seasonal maintenance—even if it's just knowing you're prepared for whatever nature throws your way next.
"We eventually settled on aluminum-clad wood windows as a compromise. They still have that classic look, but they're way more weather-resistant."
I totally see where you're coming from with aluminum-clad wood—definitely a solid choice for durability and aesthetics. But honestly, if energy efficiency is a priority (and it usually is for me), fiberglass windows might be worth considering too. We swapped ours out a couple years back, and the difference in drafts and heating bills was pretty noticeable. They're not quite as charming as traditional wood, I'll admit, but they hold up incredibly well against coastal storms and salty air.
Funny enough, I used to romanticize the seasonal maintenance routine too... until I realized how much time I was spending sealing gaps and repainting frames instead of actually enjoying my weekends. Now I just appreciate having one less thing to worry about when the wind picks up at night. Still, props to anyone who can keep up with the authentic coastal vibe—it's definitely got its own kind of charm.
Fiberglass is solid, but I've seen some issues with color fading and surface chalking after a few years in coastal conditions. Aluminum-clad wood might need occasional upkeep, sure, but it tends to age better visually over the long haul. Just something to keep in mind.