Replacing windows and doors in a mid century modern home
These low profile black aluminum sliding doors work great with a Streng.
Probably more than any other architecture style, the exterior windows and doors in mid century homes are an integral part of the home with its emphasis on large panes of glass to integrate the outside with the inside living areas.
These original doors and windows were aluminum and low profile so they didn’t interrupt the view.
Original black aluminum framed windows on a Streng home.
If you are lucky your mid century home still retains its original doors and windows and are in great working condition.
But if your home has undergone an unfortunate remodel with windows and doors that don’t fit the clean lines of your mid century home, you want to make your home more energy efficient or if the original doors and windows are no longer in good shape, here are some resources for you to check out.
Original aluminum sliding doors on this 1970 Streng.
Blomberg
Blomberg is a local Sacramento company and was the original supplier of doors and windows for Streng Homes. The company is still in business and is considered by many to be the best choice for your Streng home.
Arcadia Custom
Arcadia was the original supplier of windows and doors for Eichler homes. They are also still in business and offer many design options.
While Blomberg and Arcadia might be considered the gold standard for your mid century home, the price point might not fit everyone’s budget.
These following alternatives to Blomberg and Arcadia will not have the low profile of the original doors and windows. It might cost a bit more with these suppliers but consider selecting a black frame instead of white which more closely adheres to the original look.
White Milgard sliding doors were installed in 2018 on this Streng home. Note the larger profile.
Milgard Windows and Doors were recommended by several of our neighbors including local developer, Kyle Groves. His company has renovated several Streng Homes in our neighborhood and Milgard Windows and Doors is his go to vendor. “I like that they have a lot of options to select from and they generally have quick turnaround from order placed to installation.” Said Groves
Simonton Windows and Doors was also recommened by a Streng homeowner. Simonton is located nearby in Vacaville.
Example of an unfortunate remodel. Even though they are high quality, these wood-framed sliding doors are Arts and Crafts style and do not fit the mid century modern aesthetic of this Streng home. (Note: This is our home and soon to be replaced.)
Here are several other companies to consider:
Also keep in mind that most of these companies typically do not measure, handle the removal of your existing doors or windows or the installation. You will need to find a contractor to handle measuring, removal and installation.
We have had many people recommend installer Southgate Glass.
There are also resources if you want to repair your doors or windows including lock mechanisms, sliders and handles. If a neighbor is remodeling you might be able to have the neighbor give you the parts from their doors and windows. There are several Facebook groups for mid century enthusiasts which are also good resources for parts such as Seeking a Streng and Mid-Century Sacramento. Craigslist and Nextdoor are also good options for seeking parts for repair and restoration. For glass repair we can highly recommend Dick’s Rancho Glass.
White Milgard replacement windows on a Streng home.
If you like the look of your original doors and windows and they are still in good working condition but want to make your home more energy efficient — click here to read more about California’s Title 24 which lists the requirements so you understand the tradeoffs. The standards are updated every three years.
The bottom line though to retain the highest value in your home, pick a window and door replacement that fits the design aesthetic of your mid century modern home.
Do you have a company you have worked with to replace your windows and doors? Email us and let us know.
