Windows

muntin

RenovateDSM — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:29:21 -0700

a slender vertical or horizontal bar between windows or individual glass panes within a single window

Replacing Historic Windows - Guidelines from the National Park Service

RenovateDSM — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:37:48 -0700

Windows are one of the character defining elements of a historic structure. When you are applying for historic tax credits (or your structure is located in a local historic district), you may be required to retain and repair your existing historic windows.

This document discusses the various scenarios and how the replacement versus repair question will be evaluated by the reviewer.

Abatron Wood Restoration and Maintenance Products

RenovateDSM — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 09:05:58 -0700

Abatron sells a variety of epoxy-based products for wood restoration and repair.

Follow this link directly to their Wood Restoration and Repair Products

Reglazing a Historic Wood Window Sash - VIDEO

RenovateDSM — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 08:43:19 -0700

Des Moines Rehabbers Club member Kelli Griffis edited together footage she took at the April 2008 DSMRC meeting and created this great "how-to" video. The video is about 50 minutes and takes you through the process from removing the sash to removing old glazing, taking out the glass, cleaning/repairing the sash, and finally reinstalling the glass and reglazing. Also listen for some great information and advice from Jack Porter of the Iowa Historical Society.

Angela Thorne demonstrates how to reglaze a historic wood window sash:

Reglazing a Historic Double Hung Window Sash

RenovateDSM — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 19:56:13 -0700

Before you replace your historic home's original wood windows, consider the historic, economic, ecological, and technical benefits of repairing the ones you already have. Despite what the salespeople tell you, replacement is NOT necessarily the best option... The original wood windows in your house may have been there for 100 years already - with proper repair and maintenance, they may be able to serve you for 100 more!

Window

RenovateDSM — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:47:32 -0700

This is an example of a "2/2" double-hung window. The "2/2" designation indicates that both the top and bottom sashes are divided into two sections. A true divided lite has a wood muntin separating each pane of glass. Modern windows typically have "simulated" divided lites with sticking applied to the outside of a single insulated glass unit to approximate the look of a true divided lite.

Get the Lead Out!

RenovateDSM — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 22:44:24 -0800

Lead paint can be found on almost any surface of your historic home: windows, walls, ceilings, siding, cabinetry, and trim. Lead is a poison and can affect both humans and pets. Children are particularly susceptible. Contact the Polk County Health Department for more information on lead paint law, lead poisoning symptoms, and how to rid your house of lead.

Lynn Simmons
Program Specialist
Polk County Health Department
1907 Carpenter Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50314

Phone: 515-286-3596

e-mail: Lsimmon@co.polk.ia.us

Windows

RenovateDSM — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:03:23 -0700

Windows are important not just to let light in and keep out the weather, but also as a defining feature of your homes’ style. Windows are categorized by several characteristics: material, number of panes of glass, method of opening, and any unique features. For example a wood, arch-top, 2/2, double-hung window has the following characteristics: (1) the sashes and frame are constructed from wood, (2) the top sash is curved at the top, (3) each sash has two divided panes of glass, and (4) both sashes move up and down.

Repair, Replace, or Replicate

The key decision you will have to make is whether to repair or replace your windows. Historically speaking, repair is generally the preferred method. A tightly sealed, well-installed, high quality storm window installed over your repaired historic wood window will provide an acceptable barrier to the weather. Repairing a historic window may involve replicating deteriorated pieces of the frame or sill, reglazing the sashes, weatherstripping, stripping/painting, and rehanging the counterweights. Reglazing a window and rehanging the weights are skills that are easily learned by a novice. Replicating deteriorated wood pieces requires special tools and skills that may be better left to professionals or those with significant experience.

In the event that the sashes are beyond repair but the frames are still in good condition, a millwork shop may be able to create replacement sashes for much less cost than a full replacement window. They may also be able to re-mill your existing sashes to accept insulated glass if you want to upgrade the glazing.

Window Replacement

If you decide to replace the windows, you will be faced with a myriad of decisions regarding the cost, style, construction, and efficiency of the replacement windows. Within the bounds of this overview, only some of these decisions will be discussed. The four major types of modern window construction are wood, aluminum, clad, and vinyl.