Every window restoration project is different, with its own specific needs and requirements, but in general, we tend to classify window restoration projects in one of the two following categories. It is common for projects to have elements of both types:
Mechanical Restoration -- to restore sound, stable windows to full operational condition:
Shop Restoration - to restore damaged, deteriorated or unstable windows to like new and fully operational condition:
Jobsite Protocol -- housekeeping, security, weatherproofing.
Many of the above specified repairs will be done in your home. We promise to always remember that our jobsite is your home and that we are your guests. This means that we will use extreme care when organizing our work area, minimizing disruption to your schedule and use of the space. In all cases, we use blankets, dropcloths, Hepa vacuums and ongoing meticulous housekeeping to maintain cleanliness throughout the job.
Many of the above specified repairs require removal of the window sash to our fully equipped, 5,000 square foot shop. We will install secure, weatherproof, custom fitted temporary window closures over the window opening for the duration. If necessary, these covers can be specially equipped to admit light or air.
Complete Turnkey Window Solutions -- we can be fully accountable to you for the complete job.
In the performance of any of the above repairs, it may frequently become necessary to address additional repairs incidental to the completion to the work, such as restoration or replacement of damaged exterior sills, trim repairs, painting or masonry repairs. We can address all such repairs, either with our own forces or with long time associate tradespeople.
If necessary, we can we can also furnish hardware and weatherproofing upgrades to your windows. We maintain our own window restoration supply warehouse and showroom and can direct source a complete range of glazing, hardware, weatherproofing and storm windows. We can replace any era hardware or window glass with matching replacements.
Energy Efficiency and Sound Abatement -- to modern standards.
Your restored, original wood window can be as weatherproof, soundproof and energy efficient as any modern replacement window. There is no one answer for the weatherproofing and soundproofing of historic windows, but since we offer a full range of weatherstripping and storm window manufacturers, we can fit the solution to your needs and to the design of your particular window.
We also offer insulated glass conversions for window sash whose profiles will support it. They offer soundproofing advantages in the summer months as they are meant to be used without benefit of storm windows.
Window Replacement -- replacing the replacements.
Replacing the replacements is something we are often called upon to do. A conventional, modern "replacement window" is a temporary solution that must be replaced every 15 to 20 years as the sealed glass units fog up or the mechanisms fail. We can help you to opt out of this cycle by refitting the opening to accept quality custom window sash. We can furnish an exact match for any existing wooden sash or design. All reproduction work is done in the most durable wood species available today.
Contact Info:
Contact Cleary and Son, Inc. by email, or call us at our office at 800-893-0728. Ask to speak to Kim Cleary about your window restoration project. Our office, showroom and store is located at 192 Felton St., Waltham, MA 02453.
We are a registered Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor, license HIC #159812.
(This article originally appeared as a Product Report in Traditional Building Magazine. To download this article as a PDF, click here. ) Do you replace or restore historic windows? What are the facts and myths in this most contentious of debates? By Walter Sedovic and Jill H. Gotthelf In...