Historic Wood Windows Combine Authentic Construction With New TechnologyDetail Oriented

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However, for some discriminating clients, only the original material will do. "The market in Richmond is said to be one of the few markets where folks just like a wood window," Hearn says, adding that historical accuracy can be a factor in that decision.

Whether it's the materials, accurate profiles, or authentic construction, choosing historic windows is all about the details. --BUILDING PRODUCTS

Well Preserved

Sometimes a client isn't the only person you need to impress with a historical renovation. When architect Lisa Germann was remodeling the Crane Ordway building in St. Paul, Minn., she says she worked to ensure the state's historic preservation office would approve the replacement windows so it could qualify for historic preservation tax incentives.

She met on several occasions with the state historic architect and an architectural representative from Marvin, the window provider, to review the window specs. Looking at factors such as frame depth, trim profiles, the division of glass, the hung window proportions, and operation, the group settled on repairing a third of the building's windows and replacing the rest. The state architect approved a design that closely replicated the profiles and sight lines of the original window, while adding aluminum cladding to the exterior and having the awning windows open at the top, instead of at the middle, where the original windows opened.

When historians evaluate a building's eligibility for the National Register, windows are just one of the components they consider, says Paul Lusignan, a historian with the National Register of Historic Places. "Original windows are highly desirable, but are not required for listing," he says. However, if replacement windows are speced, they must be compatible with the original design, he says.

Andersen. The 400 series Woodwright line is rich with design features that emulate old-fashioned double-hung window details, the manufacturer says. The sash features authentic-looking mortise-and-tenon joints, as opposed to mitered joints, and a tall bottom rail commonly found on traditional windows. Three curved-top double-hung window styles complement the original rectangular design. 800-426-4261. www.andersenwindows.com.
	Parrett Windows. The manufacturer builds every window to specification and specializes in non-standard sizes and radius window units. Offering lines for the residential and historic markets, the company can manufacture complete units or replication sashes. Among the offerings are single-, double-, and triple-hung weight-and-chain units, pictured here as a double-hung. 800-541-9527. www.parrettwindows.com.
Weather Shield. Combining modern energy efficiency with historically accurate details, the HR175 historic renovation window provides structural integrity and a traditional profile by capturing features such as 7/8-inch true divided lites, a 13/4-inch-thick sash, and 51/8-inch jambs. It is available in single-hung tilts and sash replacement kits. 800-222-2995. www.weathershield.com.
	MW. The Jefferson series of wood windows is available in double-hung, casement/awning, and picture windows, and can be complemented by a variety of accent windows and architectural shapes to create dramatic designs, according to the firm. The windows use authentic design to create a historically accurate, durable window, the maker adds. 800-999-8400. www.mwwindows.com.