PRESERVATION TECH NOTES     WINDOWS NUMBER 20

Figure 3. Isometric drawing of aluminum replacement window. Drawing: Greg Gibson.

Solution
In the search for appropriate replacement units, an aluminum window manufacturer was contacted that had a track record of creating new systems for large historic renovations. The company was charged by the development team with providing an aluminum window that had true divided lights, matching profiles and sight lines, and insulating glass. The replacement system that was designed used a large number of new custom extrusions to replicate the dimensions, profiles and sightlines of the original windows (see figure 3). Individual insulated glass lights provided increased energy efficiency while more accurately recreating the characteristic variations of the original glass panes.

Existing historic windows in areas that were not to be continuously occupied, such as common lobbies and fire stairwells, were retained and repaired in situ. In addition, all of the tall windows on the second level (which would be devoted to retail functions) were repaired and reglazed where needed with historic glass salvaged from other locations in the building (see figure 4).

Figure 4. Among the retained and repaired original windows were these large units on the second floor level. Photo: Bruner/Cott & Assoc., Inc.

Fabrication, Testing and Installation

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