10 Ways to Repurpose Old Windows

When renovating your home, it’s common to swap out old or outdated windows for something more durable, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly. While Window World’s installation team can conveniently dispose of your old windows, you may want to consider repurposing old windows into something useful, beautiful, or both before parting with them.

You might be wondering, “What can I make with an old window?” or “How can old windows be reused?” The truth is, there are plenty of creative, practical, and sustainable ways to reuse old windows—even if they’re no longer serving their original purpose. From crafts using old windows to decorative projects with old window panes, there’s no shortage of ideas for turning your discarded frames into charming accents or fully functional DIY pieces.

Repurposing your old windows is a great DIY opportunity for homeowners looking to add character and a personal touch to their home. In this guide, we’ll share ten unique and inspiring ideas for using old windows—perfect for anyone wondering what to do with old windows after a replacement project.

How To Repurpose Old Windows

Now that you’ve decided to reuse your old windows, it’s time to get creative. Whether you’re into vintage decor, backyard upgrades, or organizing your space, repurposing old window frames offers an endless array of possibilities.

Not only do these old window pane ideas add visual interest and personal flair to your home, they’re also a smart way to reduce waste and embrace sustainable living. From humble crafts using old windows to structural projects like greenhouses, there’s a project for every style and skill level.

1. Create a Greenhouse

One common way to repurpose your old windows is by using them as walls for a greenhouse. Depending on how many windows you have, this could range from a mini greenhouse that houses a few plants to a full-size shed. The open panels will help let the sun in while the glass does a great job of protecting the greenery from rain and other outdoor elements like pests.

2. Repurpose Old Windows as Photo Frames

Repurposing old windows opens up a world of possibilities for showcasing your family portraits and favorite photos. Each panel serves as its own unique frame, allowing you to effortlessly switch out pictures without dealing with traditional frame tabs. Simply stick your photos onto the window’s surface and let your creativity shine.

3. Make a Window Coffee Table

Use extra-long, double-hung windows with several panels to give your living room an eccentric upgrade in the form of a window coffee table. To complete this project, turn your old window onto its side to act as a glass table top and attach it to four legs. Keep the look rustic with wooden farmhouse-style table legs or opt for something more modern with a metal base.

4. Build a Window Headboard

Another way to repurpose old windows is by using them as a headboard. Simply hang the window above your bed and watch as it transforms your bedroom into an oasis. This is an especially great option if you have several windows you want to repurpose, as multiple windows next to each other make for a more substantial headboard.

5. Make a Decorative Wall Mirror

Consider repurposing your window as a decorative mirror to hang in your bathroom or any other room in your house. To convert the window into a mirror, remove the transparent glass panels and replace them with mirrored glass. Besides looking stylish, these mirrors can help make your rooms look more spacious and inviting.

6. Repurpose an Old Window as a Chalkboard

Using chalkboard paint or chalkboard panels, you can create a surface within your old window frame to write on repeatedly. These window chalkboards work great in mudrooms and kitchens where you want to see reminders before you leave the house. Since windows have gridded sections, these makeshift chalkboards can serve multiple functions across each grid space.

7. Use as a Canvas For Artwork

If you have a young child, you likely have loads of artwork to show off throughout the school year. Windows work great as a canvas to fasten these pieces to and change frequently. You can also use these as surfaces to hang professional artwork or pieces you buy from a local art fair. With art being just one of the many endless possibilities for repurposing old windows, you can effortlessly transform them into versatile displays that add character to any space.

8. Use Windows in a Privacy Yard Fence

Another popular window usage is makeshift privacy yard fences. Instead of spindles or posts across your entire fence, consider putting a window in the middle for a creative look. You can paint the glass with frosted film for extra privacy or hang windows from the ceiling of your porch to add some separation from your neighboring houses.

9. Repurpose Windows as a Jewelry Organizer

Keep your necklaces from getting tangled and minimize your morning getting-ready routine by hanging them on a DIY jewelry organizer made from a smaller bathroom window. To create a jewelry organizer, replace the glass with chicken wire and attach hooks to the wooden frame. This creative repurposing idea not only adds functionality but also brings a touch of vintage charm to your space.

10. Build Window Box Planters

Window repurpose projects don’t have to be limited to the indoors. Construct a planter box at the bottom of your old windows and hang them alongside your shed or house. Here you can add a pop of color and keep flowers safe from deer.

FAQs About Repurposing Windows

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