Resources historical guidelines |
It is the intent of us at FINO Creative Enterprises, Inc. to advance the initiatives of Historic Preservation by acting as a key resource for projects that require this calibre of craftsmanship. In fact, it has become sort of a real credential that we take great pride in. We can guide you through the maze of considerations that go into such endeavors and work closely with you and/or your architect and/or other design professionals for projects that require specific recommendations. Where there do not exist any formal promulgated guidelines, it has been our experience to reference 2 particular overviews: #1. Preservation Brief #9 (U.S. Dept. of Interior) and the #2. Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission How do you know if your project will require special consideration? (Typically, you'll know!!) A quick rule of thumb is "if it can be seen from the sidewalk". Otherwise, we can help guide you to the proper resources or you may also have luck with the Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois which generally supercedes the jurisdiction for these types of matters. We have experience acquiring proper IL Tax Freeze Assessment easement approvals and Letters of Procedure from appropriate councils. For simple projects, you may be able to have your request "Administratively approved". For more complex projects, you may need to acquire an actual "Certificate of Appropriateness" which may sometimes require an actual in-person meeting before a Preservation Committee. A Certificate of Appropriateness is as legitimate and important as a "Plumbing Inspection" or a "Structural Sign-Off" as Building Deptartments do retain, as their right, to deny an actual "Occupancy Permit" until such conformities are remedied. Either way, these can take lots and lots of time, so plan ahead! |
| Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission Architectural Review Guidelines Approved January 18th, 1994 Modified: March 15, 1999 Section H: Window Policy 1. Windows are significant character-defining elements of historic buildings. Do not destroy the character of a historic building by maintenance, repair or replacement of existing windows. Therefore avoid the removal or alteration of windows wherever possible. It is important to respect the stylistic intention of the historic architect or builder when repairing or replacing historic windows. 2. Maintain and routinely repair rather than rebuild, repair or replace existing windows. Maintenance and routine repair of windows shall include: a. Replacement of broken glass, and/or associated muntins, moldings or glazing compound with material that matches the original in shape, size and material. b. Scraping, priming and repainting of window sash and/or frame. c. General upkeep such as caulking around frames and sills, or replacing weather stripping. d. Repair and replacement of window hardware that matches the original in scale and design. 3. Rebuild or repair portions of existing window frames, sashes, sills, or portions thereof, rather than replace unless it is technically infeasible to do so. a. Repair procedures for wood windows shall include the following: (1). Reinforcing, splicing, patching or rebuilding portions of the window using the same material constructed to the same configuration, size and shape as the original. (2). Filling or consolidating existing wood members with cellulose type wood fillers or chemical materials such as plastics. b. Repair procedures for steel or metal windows shall include: (1). Replacing individual deteriorated or rusted frame or mullion sections using the same metal to match size, configuration and finish of original. Firmly attach new members to the original so that it is not possible to detect replacement material from the street. 4. Repair rather than replace historic decorative windows as defined herein. 5. Replacement of historic windows may be approved under the following conditions: a. Historic windows are not decorative windows as defined herein. b. Repair of historic windows is technically infeasible. c. Appearance: (1). Match critical details such as window size, shape,operation, glass configuration, material and finish. (2). The appearance of the window sash, as well as opening size and decorative detailing, shall look like the existing historic window from the street. d. Operation: (1). Replacement windows shall operate in the same manner as the existing historic windows (for example, replace existing double-hung windows with new double hung windows, replace existing casement windows that open inward with new casement windows that open inward, etc.) e. Muntins: (1). Replacement window sash shall have the same muntin ('Iite' configuration) as the existing historic windows. Insulating glass may be used in new windows. (2). The configuration of replacement muntins shall have historic profiles and should form true divided lites (i.e., individual panes of glass) if existing windows were divided into individual panes. (3). Exterior applied muntins that are permanently fixed to the exterior or both exterior and interior of the glass may be approved as a substitute for true divided lites. Submit sample of muntin and fixing detail to be used. (4). Do not propose interior snap-in muntins to be used in place of true divided lite muntins. This type of detail will be considered acceptable only under unusual visual circumstances and where it is shown to be technically infeasible to provide either true divided lites or exterior applied muntins. f. Sash and frame materials: (1). Wood windows should be replaced in the same material but not necessarily in the same species of wood. (2). Wood windows may be replaced with vinyl clad or aluminum clad wood windows with a finish that appears to match the existing finish as visible from the street. (3). If the historic window being replaced is a simple one-over-one sash with nonornamental frames the material to be used for the replacement window may not have to replicate the original materials. However, the sash and frame profiles and finish of the replacement window shall appear the same as the historic window from the street. (4). Metal windows shall be replaced with new metal windows, but not necessarily the same metal. Sash and frame profiles and finish of the replacement window shall appear the same as the historic window from the street. 6. Replacement of non-original windows that have replaced the original windows at some time in the past. a. Where new replacement windows are proposed to replace non-original windows in a building, the design and detail of the replacement window shall be based on the documented configuration of the building's original windows. Such documentation may be obtained from historic photographs, drawings, or the design of the new replacement windows may be based on window configurations typical to the period of significance of the building. b. Where non-original windows are historic themselves and contribute to the history or significance of the building ('changes over time'), or are considered as having historic significance themselves, the design of the new replacement windows may be based on the existing non-original windows. Such cases will be determined on an individual basis. 7. Multi-family dwelling master plans: a. A master plan shall be created for the phased repair and/or replacement of windows in multi-family dwellings. Such a master plan shall identify existing and proposed conditions, and provide design standards for systematic future replacement work. 8. Replacement Glass: a. Replacement glass may be insulating glass. b. Replacement glass shall be clear if historic glass is clear. c. Reuse historic rolled ('wavy') glass from historic windows in new or replacement windows, unless it is technically infeasible to do so. d. Where historic tinted glass will be replaced, match color of historic tinted glass. e. Where historic reflective glass will be replaced, match reflectance and color of historic reflective glass. f. “Low-E” or other similar light-absorbing or reflective coatings on glass will be permitted only if it can be demonstrated that there will be no appearance change of glass color or reflective value from the historic appearance of the glass where visible from the street. g. Removal of historic leaded glass, art glass, stained glass, beveled glass, prismatic glass, or Luxfer prisms shall not be permitted, unless it is irreparably damaged and repair is technically infeasible. h. Plexiglass, Lexan or similar types of acrylic plastic glazing materials are not permitted to be used for replacement historic glass, unless it can be documented that these products were used in building. 9. Glass block: will not be permitted as new or replacement windows unless it is characteristic of the style of the building (e.g. Art Deco style). If historic glass block is replaced, it shall be replaced with new glass block with similar shape, color, reflectively, and texture as the historic material. 10. Storm Windows and Screens a. Historic existing storm and screen windows shall be repaired and reused unless it is technically infeasible to do so. b. New or replacement storm and screen windows shall match the original, or those characteristic of the period or style of the building, unless it is technically infeasible to do so. c. New storm windows or screens installed on windows where none existed in the past shall be installed on the interior of the historic window unless it is technically infeasible to do so. d. Clear glass storm windows with a minimum frame width may be installed as a protective measure for decorative art glass windows. Provide sufficient ventilation to prevent condensation between the historic window and the protective storm window. e. New triple-track storm and screen combination window may be added to any window if the following conditions are met: (1). Existing storm and screen windows are non-existent or are so deteriorated or damaged that they cannot be economically repaired. (2). The new storm and screen windows can be installed without removing, damaging, or obscuring character-defining architectural features or trim, and will be installed in such a way as to be able to be removed in the future without destroying architectural features. (3). The new storm and screen windows are as unobtrusive as possible and match the historic window major glass division. 11. Window Shutters a. New shutters on buildings may be permitted only if it can be shown that shutters were installed or may have been installed historically on the building. b. Shutter design, type, size, and material shall be characteristic of the significant period of the building. J. Exterior Door Policy 1. Repair rather than replace doors (entry, storm and screen) unless it is technically infeasible to do so. 2. If repair of historic doors (entry, storm and screen) is technically infeasible, new replacement doors may be approved if they duplicate the existing size, shape, proportion, profiles, hardware, details, glazing, panel type and design, and operation. a. Painted or stained wood and aluminum-clad doors are acceptable replacements for historic wood doors. b. Bronze or bronze-plated doors are acceptable replacements for historic bronze doors. c. Anodized aluminum or coated aluminum doors are acceptable replacements for historic aluminum doors. d. Painted steel or clad steel doors are acceptable replacements for historic steel doors. 3. Profiles, sizes, and locations of panels shall match panels on historic doors. 4. Repair rather than replace transom windows and door casings, or replicate such if there is evidence of their original configuration. 5. Repair rather than replace existing historic hardware, unless it is technically infeasible to do so. 6. New hardware proposed to replace historic hardware should be simple, unobtrusive, and compatible with the style and period of significance of the building. 7. Replacement glass in doors a. Replacement glass may be insulating glass. b. Replacement glass shall be clear if historic glass is clear. c. Where historic tinted glass will be replaced, match color of historic tinted glass. d. Where historic reflective glass will be replaced, match reflectance and color of historic reflective glass. e. 'Low-E' or other similar light-absorbing or reflective coatings on glass will be permitted only if it can be demonstrated that there will be no appearance change of glass color or reflective value from tile historic appearance of the glass where visible from the street. f. Removal of historic leaded glass, art glass, stained glass, beveled glass, prismatic glass, or Luxfer prisms shall not be permitted, unless it is damaged and is technically infeasible to repair it. g. Plexiglass, Lexan or similar types of acrylic plastic glazing materials are not permitted to be used for replacement historic glass, unless it can be documented that these products were used in the historic building. 8. Glazing muntins: a. Replacement doors shall have the same muntin ('Iite' configuration) as the existing historic doors. b. The configuration of replacement muntins shall have historic profiles and should form true divided lites (i.e., individual panes of glass) (1). Snap-in muntins shall not be permitted. (2). Applied muntins which are permanently fixed to the glass may be approved. Submit sample of muntin and fixing detail to be used. 9. Elimination of the original or historic door opening, or creation of new door openings, is not acceptable on surfaces visible from the street. 10. Garage doors visible from the street: a. Repair rather than replace original or historic garage doors that are significant to the character of the garage, unless technically infeasible to do so. b. If repair of historic garage doors is technically infeasible, new replacement garage doors may be approved if they duplicate the existing size, shape, proportion, profiles, hardware, details, glazing, panel type and design, and operation, and fit within the existing opening. |
| Preservation Technical Preservation Services Brief #9 National Park Service U.S. Dept. of the Interior The Repair of Historic Wooden Windows John H. Myers »Architectural or Historical Significance »Physical Evaluation »Repair Class I: Routine Maintenance »Repair Class II: Stabilization »Repair Class III: Splices and Parts Replacement »Weatherization »Window Replacement »Conclusion »Additional Reading ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The windows on many historic buildings are an important aspect of the architectural character of those buildings. Their design, craftsmanship, or other qualities may make them worthy of preservation. This is self-evident for ornamental windows, but it can be equally true for warehouses or factories where the windows may be the most dominant visual element of an otherwise plain building. Evaluating the significance of these windows and planning for their repair or replacement can be a complex process involving both objective and subjective considerations. The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and the accompanying guidelines, call for respecting the significance of original materials and features, repairing and retaining them wherever possible, and when necessary, replacing them in kind. This Brief is based on the issues of significance and repair which are implicit in the standards, but the primary emphasis is on the technical issues of planning for the repair of windows including evaluation of their physical condition, techniques of repair, and design considerations when replacement is necessary. Much of the technical section presents repair techniques as an instructional guide for the do-it-yourselfer. The information will be useful, however, for the architect, contractor, or developer on large-scale projects. It presents a methodology for approaching the evaluation and repair of existing windows, and considerations for replacement, from which the professional can develop alternatives and specify appropriate materials and procedures. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Architectural or Historical Significance Evaluating the architectural or historical significance of windows is the first step in planning for window treatments, and a general understanding of the function and history of windows is vital to making a proper evaluation. As a part of this evaluation, one must consider four basic window functions: admitting light to the interior spaces, providing fresh air and ventilation to the interior, providing a visual link to the outside world, and enhancing the appearance of a building. No single factor can be disregarded when planning window treatments; for example, attempting to conserve energy by closing up or reducing the size of window openings may result in the use of more energy by increasing electric lighting loads and decreasing passive solar heat gains. Windows are frequently important visual focal points, especially on simple facades such as this mill building. Replacement of the multi-pane windows with larger panes could dramatically alter the appearance of the building. Historically, the first windows in early American houses were casement windows; that is, they were hinged at the side and opened outward. In the beginning of the eighteenth century single- and double-hung windows were introduced. Subsequently many styles of these vertical sliding sash windows have come to be associated with specific building periods or architectural styles, and this is an important consideration in determining the significance of windows, especially on a local or regional basis. Site-specific, regionally oriented architectural comparisons should be made to determine the significance of windows in question. Although such comparisons may focus on specific window types and their details, the ultimate determination of significance should be made within the context of the whole building, wherein the windows are one architectural element. After all of the factors have been evaluated, windows should be considered significant to a building if they: 1) are original 2) reflect the original design intent for the building 3) reflect period or regional styles or building practices 4) reflect changes to the building resulting from major periods or events 5) are examples of exceptional craftsmanship or design. Once this evaluation of significance has been completed, it is possible to proceed with planning appropriate treatments, beginning with an investigation of the physical condition of the windows. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Physical Evaluation The key to successful planning for window treatments is a careful evaluation of existing physical conditions on a unit-by-unit basis. A graphic or photographic system may be devised to record existing conditions and illustrate the scope of any necessary repairs. Another effective tool is a window schedule which lists all of the parts of each window unit. Spaces by each part allow notes on existing conditions and repair instructions. When such a schedule is completed, it indicates the precise tasks to be performed in the repair of each unit and becomes a part of the specifications. In any evaluation, one should note at a minimum: 1) window location 2) condition of the paint 3) condition of the frame and sill 4) condition of the sash (rails, stiles and muntins) 5) glazing problems 6) hardware 7) the overall condition of the window (excellent, fair, poor, and so forth) Many factors such as poor design, moisture, vandalism, insect attack, and lack of maintenance can contribute to window deterioration, but moisture is the primary contributing factor in wooden window decay. All window units should be inspected to see if water is entering around the edges of the frame and, if so, the joints or seams should be caulked to eliminate this danger. The glazing putty should be checked for cracked, loose, or missing sections which allow water to saturate the wood, especially at the joints. The back putty on the interior side of the pane should also be inspected, because it creates a seal which prevents condensation from running down into the joinery. The sill should be examined to insure that it slopes downward away from the building and allows water to drain off. In addition, it may be advisable to cut a dripline along the underside of the sill. This almost invisible treatment will insure proper water runoff, particularly if the bottom of the sill is flat. Any conditions, including poor original design, which permit water to come in contact with the wood or to puddle on the sill must be corrected as they contribute to deterioration of the window. Deterioration of poorly maintained windows usually begins on horizontal surfaces and at joints, where water can collect and saturate the wood. One clue to the location of areas of excessive moisture is the condition of the paint; therefore, each window should be examined for areas of paint failure. Since excessive moisture is detrimental to the paint bond, areas of paint blistering, cracking, flaking, and peeling usually identify points of water penetration, moisture saturation, and potential deterioration. Failure of the paint should not, however, be mistakenly interpreted as a sign that the wood is in poor condition and hence, irreparable. Wood is frequently in sound physical condition beneath unsightly paint. After noting areas of paint failure, the next step is to inspect the condition of the wood, particularly at the points identified during the paint examination. Each window should be examined for operational soundness beginning with the lower portions of the frame and sash. Exterior rainwater and interior condensation can flow downward along the window, entering and collecting at points where the flow is blocked. The sill, joints between the sill and jamb, corners of the bottom rails and muntin joints are typical points where water collects and deterioration begins. The operation of the window (continuous opening and closing over the years and seasonal temperature changes) weakens the joints, causing movement and slight separation. This process makes the joints more vulnerable to water which is readily absorbed into the endgrain of the wood. If severe deterioration exists in these areas, it will usually be apparent on visual inspection, but other less severely deteriorated areas of the wood may be tested by two traditional methods using a small ice pick. An ice pick or an awl may be used to test wood for soundness. The technique is simply to jab the pick into a wetted wood surface at an angle and pry up a small section of the wood. Sound wood will separate in long fibrous splinters, but decayed wood will lift up in short irregular pieces due to the breakdown of fiber strength. Another method of testing for soundness consists of pushing a sharp object into the wood, perpendicular to the surface. If deterioration has begun from the hidden side of a member and the core is badly decayed, the visible surface may appear to be sound wood. Pressure on the probe can force it through an apparently sound skin to penetrate deeply into decayed wood. This technique is especially useful for checking sills where visual access to the underside is restricted. Following the inspection and analysis of the results, the scope of the necessary repairs will be evident and a plan for the rehabilitation can be formulated. Generally the actions necessary to return a window to "like new" condition will fall into three broad categories: 1) routine maintenance procedures 2) structural stabilization 3) parts replacement. These categories will be discussed in the following sections and will be referred to respectively as: Repair Class I Repair Class II Repair Class III Each successive repair class represents an increasing level of difficulty, expense, and work time. Note that most of the points mentioned in Repair Class I are routine maintenance items and should be provided in a regular maintenance program for any building. The neglect of these routine items can contribute to many common window problems. Before undertaking any of the repairs mentioned in the following sections all sources of moisture penetration should be identified and eliminated, and all existing decay fungi destroyed in order to arrest the deterioration process. Many commercially available fungicides and wood preservatives are toxic, so it is extremely important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application, and store all chemical materials away from children and animals. After fungicidal and preservative treatment the windows may be stabilized, retained, and restored with every expectation for a long service life. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Repair Class I: Routine Maintenance This historic double-hung window has many layers of paint, some cracked and missing putty, slight separation at the joints, broken sash cords, and one cracked pane. Repairs to wooden windows are usually labor intensive and relatively uncomplicated. On small scale projects this allows the do-it-yourselfer to save money by repairing all or part of the windows. On larger projects it presents the opportunity for time and money which might otherwise be spent on the removal and replacement of existing windows, to be spent on repairs, subsequently saving all or part of the material cost of new window units. Regardless of the actual costs, or who performs the work, the evaluation process described earlier will provide the knowledge from which to specify an appropriate work program, establish the work element priorities, and identify the level of skill needed by the labor force. After removing paint from the seam between the interior stop and the jamb, the stop can be pried out and gradually worked loose using a pair of putty knives as shown. The routine maintenance required to upgrade a window to "like new" condition normally includes the following steps: 1) some degree of interior and exterior paint removal 2) removal and repair of sash (including reglazing where necessary) 3) repairs to the frame 4) weatherstripping and reinstallation of the sash 5) repainting. These operations are illustrated for a typical double-hung wooden window, but they may be adapted to other window types and styles as applicable. Historic windows have usually acquired many layers of paint over time. Removal of excess layers or peeling and flaking paint will facilitate operation of the window and restore the clarity of the original detailing. Some degree of paint removal is also necessary as a first step in the proper surface preparation for subsequent refinishing (if paint color analysis is desired, it should be conducted prior to the onset of the paint removal). There are several safe and effective techniques for removing paint from wood, depending on the amount of paint to be removed. Sash can be removed and repaired in a convenient work area. Paint is being removed from this sash with a hot air gun. Paint removal should begin on the interior frames, being careful to remove the paint from the interior stop and the parting bead, particularly along the seam where these stops meet the jamb. This can be accomplished by running a utility knife along the length of the seam, breaking the paint bond. It will then be much easier to remove the stop, the parting bead and the sash. The interior stop may be initially loosened from the sash side to avoid visible scarring of the wood and then gradually pried loose using a pair of putty knives, working up and down the stop in small increments. With the stop removed, the lower or interior sash may be withdrawn. The sash cords should be detached from the sides of the sash and their ends may be pinned with a nail or tied in a knot to prevent them from falling into the weight pocket. Removal of the upper sash on double-hung units is similar but the parting bead which holds it in place is set into a groove in the center of the stile and is thinner and more delicate than the interior stop. After removing any paint along the seam, the parting bead should be carefully pried out and worked free in the same manner as the interior stop. The upper sash can be removed in the same manner as the lower one and both sash taken to a convenient work area (in order to remove the sash the interior stop and parting bead need only be removed from one side of the window). Window openings can be covered with polyethylene sheets or plywood sheathing while the sash are out for repair. The sash can be stripped of paint using appropriate techniques, but if any heat treatment is used, the glass should be removed or protected from the sudden temperature change which can cause breakage. An overlay of aluminum foil on gypsum board or asbestos can protect the glass from such rapid temperature change. It is important to protect the glass because it may be historic and often adds character to the window. Deteriorated putty should be removed manually, taking care not to damage the wood along the rabbet. If the glass is to be removed, the glazing points which hold the glass in place can be extracted and the panes numbered and removed for cleaning and reuse in the same openings. With the glass panes out, the remaining putty can be removed and the sash can be sanded, patched, and primed with a preservative primer. Hardened putty in the rabbets may be softened by heating with a soldering iron at the point of removal. Putty remaining on the glass may be softened by soaking the panes in linseed oil, and then removed with less risk of breaking the glass. Before reinstalling the glass, a bead of glazing compound or linseed oil putty should be laid around the rabbet to cushion and seal the glass. Glazing compound should only be used on wood which has been brushed with linseed oil and primed with an oil based primer or paint. The pane is then pressed into place and the glazing points are pushed into the wood around the perimeter of the pane. The final glazing compound or putty is applied and beveled to complete the seal. The sash can be refinished as desired on the inside and painted on the outside as soon as a "skin" has formed on the putty, usually in 2 or 3 days. Exterior paint should cover the beveled glazing compound or putty and lap over onto the glass slightly to complete a weather-tight seal. After the proper curing times have elapsed for paint and putty, the sash will be ready for reinstallation. While the sash are out of the frame, the condition of the wood in the jamb and sill can be evaluated. Repair and refinishing of the frame may proceed concurrently with repairs to the sash, taking advantage of the curing times for the paints and putty used on the sash. One of the most common work items is the replacement of the sash cords with new rope cords or with chains. The weight pocket is frequently accessible through a door on the face of the frame near the sill, but if no door exists, the trim on the interior face may be removed for access. Sash weights may be increased for easier window operation by elderly or handicapped persons. Additional repairs to the frame and sash may include consolidation or replacement of deteriorated wood. Techniques for these repairs are discussed in the following sections. Following the relatively simple repairs, the window is weathertight, like new in appearance, and serviceable for many years to come. The operations just discussed summarize the efforts necessary to restore a window with minor deterioration to "like new" condition. The techniques can be applied by an unskilled person with minimal training and experience. To demonstrate the practicality of this approach, and photograph it, a Technical Preservation Services staff member repaired a wooden double-hung, two over two window which had been in service over ninety years. The wood was structurally sound but the window had one broken pane, many layers of paint, broken sash cords and inadequate, worn-out weatherstripping. The staff member found that the frame could be stripped of paint and the sash removed quite easily. Paint, putty and glass removal required about one hour for each sash, and the reglazing of both sash was accomplished in about one hour. Weatherstripping of the sash and frame, replacement of the sash cords and reinstallation of the sash, parting bead, and stop required an hour and a half. These times refer only to individual operations; the entire process took several days due to the drying and curing times for putty, primer, and paint, however, work on other window units could have been in progress during these lag times. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Repair Class II: Stabilization The preceding description of a window repair job focused on a unit which was operationally sound. Many windows will show some additional degree of physical deterioration, especially in the vulnerable areas mentioned earlier, but even badly damaged windows can be repaired using simple processes. Partially decayed wood can be waterproofed, patched, built-up, or consolidated and then painted to achieve a sound condition, good appearance, and greatly extended life. Three techniques for repairing partially decayed or weathered wood are discussed in this section, and all three can be accomplished using products available at most hardware stores. One established technique for repairing wood which is split, checked or shows signs of rot, is to: 1) dry the wood 2) treat decayed areas with a fungicide 3) waterproof with two or three applications of boiled linseed oil (applications every 24 hours) 4) fill cracks and holes with putty 5) after a "skin" forms on the putty, paint the surface. Care should be taken with the use of fungicide which is toxic. Follow the manufacturers' directions and use only on areas which will be painted. When using any technique of building up or patching a flat surface, the finished surface should be sloped slightly to carry water away from the window and not allow it to puddle. Caulking of the joints between the sill and the jamb will help reduce further water penetration. This illustrates a two-part epoxy patching compound used to fill the surface of a weathered sill and rebuild the missing edge. When the epoxy cures, it can be sanded smooth and painted to achieve a durable and waterproof repair. When sills or other members exhibit surface weathering they may also be built-up using wood putties or homemade mixtures such as sawdust and resorcinol glue, or whiting and varnish. These mixtures can be built up in successive layers, then sanded, primed, and painted. The same caution about proper slope for flat surfaces applies to this technique. Wood may also be strengthened and stabilized by consolidation, using semirigid epoxies which saturate the porous decayed wood and then harden. The surface of the consolidated wood can then be filled with a semirigid epoxy patching compound, sanded and painted. Epoxy patching compounds can be used to build up missing sections or decayed ends of members. Profiles can be duplicated using hand molds, which are created by pressing a ball of patching compound over a sound section of the profile which has been rubbed with butcher's wax. This can be a very efficient technique where there are many typical repairs to be done. The process has been widely used and proven in marine applications; and proprietary products are available at hardware and marine supply stores. Although epoxy materials may be comparatively expensive, they hold the promise of being among the most durable and long lasting materials available for wood repair. More information on epoxies can be found in the publication "Epoxies for Wood Repairs in Historic Buildings," cited in the bibliography. Any of the three techniques discussed can stabilize and restore the appearance of the window unit. There are times, however, when the degree of deterioration is so advanced that stabilization is impractical, and the only way to retain some of the original fabric is to replace damaged parts. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Repair Class III: Splices and Parts Replacement When parts of the frame or sash are so badly deteriorated that they cannot be stabilized there are methods which permit the retention of some of the existing or original fabric. These methods involve replacing the deteriorated parts with new matching pieces, or splicing new wood into existing members. The techniques require more skill and are more expensive than any of the previously discussed alternatives. It is necessary to remove the sash and/or the affected parts of the frame and have a carpenter or woodworking mill reproduce the damaged or missing parts. Most millwork firms can duplicate parts, such as muntins, bottom rails, or sills, which can then be incorporated into the existing window, but it may be necessary to shop around because there are several factors controlling the practicality of this approach. Some woodworking mills do not like to repair old sash because nails or other foreign objects in the sash can damage expensive knives (which cost far more than their profits on small repair jobs); others do not have cutting knives to duplicate muntin profiles. Some firms prefer to concentrate on larger jobs with more profit potential, and some may not have a craftsman who can duplicate the parts. A little searching should locate a firm which will do the job, and at a reasonable price. If such a firm does not exist locally, there are firms which undertake this kind of repair and ship nationwide. It is possible, however, for the advanced do-it-yourselfer or craftsman with a table saw to duplicate moulding profiles using techniques discussed by Gordie Whittington in "Simplified Methods for Reproducing Wood Mouldings," Bulletin of the Association for Preservation Technology, Vol. III, No. 4, 1971, or illustrated more recently in The Old House, Time-Life Books, Alexandria, Virginia, 1979. The repairs discussed in this section involve window frames which may be in very deteriorated condition, possibly requiring removal; therefore, caution is in order. The actual construction of wooden window frames and sash is not complicated. Pegged mortise and tenon units can be disassembled easily, if the units are out of the building. The installation or connection of some frames to the surrounding structure, especially masonry walls, can complicate the work immeasurably, and may even require dismantling of the wall. It may be useful, therefore, to take the following approach to frame repair: 1) conduct regular maintenance of sound frames to achieve the longest life possible 2) make necessary repairs in place, wherever possible, using stabilization and splicing techniques 3) if removal is necessary, thoroughly investigate the structural detailing and seek appropriate professional consultation. Another alternative may be considered if parts replacement is required, and that is sash replacement. If extensive replacement of parts is necessary and the job becomes prohibitively expensive it may be more practical to purchase new sash which can be installed into the existing frames. Such sash are available as exact custom reproductions, reasonable facsimiles (custom windows with similar profiles), and contemporary wooden sash which are similar in appearance. There are companies which still manufacture high quality wooden sash which would duplicate most historic sash. A few calls to local building suppliers may provide a source of appropriate replacement sash, but if not, check with local historical associations, the state historic preservation office, or preservation related magazines and supply catalogs for information. If a rehabilitation project has a large number of windows such as a commercial building or an industrial complex, there may be less of a problem arriving at a solution. Once the evaluation of the windows is completed and the scope of the work is known, there may be a potential economy of scale. Woodworking mills may be interested in the work from a large project; new sash in volume may be considerably less expensive per unit; crews can be assembled and trained on site to perform all of the window repairs; and a few extensive repairs can be absorbed (without undue burden) into the total budget for a large number of sound windows. While it may be expensive for the average historic home owner to pay seventy dollars or more for a mill to grind a custom knife to duplicate four or five bad muntins, that cost becomes negligible on large commercial projects which may have several hundred windows. Most windows should not require the extensive repairs discussed in this section. The ones which do are usually in buildings which have been abandoned for long periods or have totally lacked maintenance for years. It is necessary to thoroughly investigate the alternatives for windows which do require extensive repairs to arrive at a solution which retains historic significance and is also economically feasible. Even for projects requiring repairs identified in this section, if the percentage of parts replacement per window is low, or the number of windows requiring repair is small, repair can still be a cost effective solution. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weatherization A window which is repaired should be made as energy efficient as possible by the use of appropriate weatherstripping to reduce air infiltration. A wide variety of products are available to assist in this task. Felt may be fastened to the top, bottom, and meeting rails, but may have the disadvantage of absorbing and holding moisture, particularly at the bottom rail. Rolled vinyl strips may also be tacked into place in appropriate locations to reduce infiltration. Metal strips or new plastic spring strips may be used on the rails and, if space permits, in the channels between the sash and jamb. Weatherstripping is a historic treatment, but old weatherstripping (felt) is not likely to perform very satisfactorily. Appropriate contemporary weatherstripping should be considered an integral part of the repair process for windows. The use of sash locks installed on the meeting rail will insure that the sash are kept tightly closed so that the weatherstripping will function more effectively to reduce infiltration. Although such locks will not always be historically accurate, they will usually be viewed as an acceptable contemporary modification in the interest of improved thermal performance. Many styles of storm windows are available to improve the thermal performance of existing windows. The use of exterior storm windows should be investigated whenever feasible because they are thermally efficient, cost-effective, reversible, and allow the retention of original windows (see "Preservation Briefs: 3"). Storm window frames may be made of wood, aluminum, vinyl, or plastic; however, the use of unfinished aluminum storms should be avoided. The visual impact of storms may be minimized by selecting colors which match existing trim color. Arched top storms are available for windows with special shapes. Although interior storm windows appear to offer an attractive option for achieving double glazing with minimal visual impact, the potential for damaging condensation problems must be addressed. Moisture which becomes trapped between the layers of glazing can condense on the colder, outer prime window, potentially leading to deterioration. The correct approach to using interior storms is to create a seal on the interior storm while allowing some ventilation around the prime window. In actual practice, the creation of such a durable, airtight seal is difficult. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Window Replacement Although the retention of original or existing windows is always desirable and this Brief is intended to encourage that goal, there is a point when the condition of a window may clearly indicate replacement. The decision process for selecting replacement windows should not begin with a survey of contemporary window products which are available as replacements, but should begin with a look at the windows which are being replaced. Attempt to understand the contribution of the window(s) to the appearance of the facade including: 1) the pattern of the openings and their size 2) proportions of the frame and sash 3) configuration of window panes 4) muntin profiles 5) type of wood 6) paint color 7) characteristics of the glass 8) associated details such as arched tops, hoods, or other decorative elements. Develop an understanding of how the window reflects the period, style, or regional characteristics of the building, or represents technological development. Armed with an awareness of the significance of the existing window, begin to search for a replacement which retains as much of the character of the historic window as possible. There are many sources of suitable new windows. Continue looking until an acceptable replacement can be found. Check building supply firms, local woodworking mills, carpenters, preservation oriented magazines, or catalogs or suppliers of old building materials, for product information. Local historical associations and state historic preservation offices may be good sources of information on products which have been used successfully in preservation projects. Consider energy efficiency as one of the factors for replacements, but do not let it dominate the issue. Energy conservation is no excuse for the wholesale destruction of historic windows which can be made thermally efficient by historically and aesthetically acceptable means. In fact, a historic wooden window with a high quality storm window added should thermally outperform a new double-glazed metal window which does not have thermal breaks (insulation between the inner and outer frames intended to break the path of heat flow). This occurs because the wood has far better insulating value than the metal, and in addition many historic windows have high ratios of wood to glass, thus reducing the area of highest heat transfer. One measure of heat transfer is the U-value, the number of Btu's per hour transferred through a square foot of material. When comparing thermal performance, the lower the U-value the better the performance. According to ASHRAE 1977 Fundamentals, the U-values for single glazed wooden windows range from 0.88 to 0.99. The addition of a storm window should reduce these figures to a range of 0.44 to 0.49. A non-thermal break, double-glazed metal window has a U-value of about 0.6. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Conclusion Technical Preservation Services recommends the retention and repair of original windows whenever possible. We believe that the repair and weatherization of existing wooden windows is more practical than most people realize, and that many windows are unfortunately replaced because of a lack of awareness of techniques for evaluation, repair, and weatherization. Wooden windows which are repaired and properly maintained will have greatly extended service lives while contributing to the historic character of the building. Thus, an important element of a building's significance will have been preserved for the future. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Additional Reading ASHRAE Handbook 1977 Fundamentals. New York: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers, 1978 (chapter 26). Ferro, Maximillian. Preservation: Present Pathway to Fall River's Future. Fall River, Massachusetts: City of Fall River, 1979 (chapter 7). "Fixing Double-hung Windows." Old House Journal (no. 12, 1979): 135. Morrison, Hugh. Early American Architecture. New York: Oxford University Press, 1952. Phillips, Morgan, and Selwyn, Judith. Epoxies for Wood Repairs in Historic Buildings. Washington, DC: Technical Preservation Services, U.S. Department of the Interior (Government Printing Office, Stock No. 024016000951), 1978. Rehab Right. Oakland, California: City of Oakland Planning Department, 1978 (pp. 7883). "Sealing Leaky Windows." Old House Journal (no. 1, 1973): 5. Smith, Baird M. "Preservation Briefs: 3 Conserving Energy in Historic Buildings." Washington, DC: Technical Preservation Services, U.S. Department of the Interior, 1978. Weeks, Kay D. and David W. Look, "Preservation Briefs: 10 Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork." Washington, DC: Technical Preservation Services, U.S. Department of the Interior, 1982. Washington, D.C. 1981 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This publication has been prepared pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, which directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop and make available information concerning historic properties. Technical Preservation Services (TPS), Heritage Preservation Services Division, National Park Service prepares standards, guidelines, and other educational materials on responsible historic preservation treatments for a broad public. |
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