My Restoration Process
Preserving the craftsmanship of yesterday. Restoring functionality for tomorrow.
Every historic window has its own character, construction, and challenges. My approach is to preserve as much of the original window as possible while restoring smooth operation, reliable functionality, and the craftsmanship that has allowed these windows to endure for generations.
1. Preparation & Lead Safety
Before beginning any disassembly or restoration, I establish a protected work area using applicable EPA and HUD lead-safe work practices.
Furniture near the window is moved when possible, while furnishings and belongings that cannot be relocated are protected with plastic sheeting. Protective coverings are also secured to the floor beneath the work area to contain paint chips and dust. See our Lead Containment Wall page here
These precautions are especially important when working with historic windows that may contain lead-based paint.
2. Careful Window Disassembly
Restoration begins with the careful removal of the interior window stops and trim.
Where paint has sealed components together, I score the painted edges before gently separating them with hand tools to minimize damage to the original woodwork.
If the existing sash cords are serviceable, I secure them near the pulleys before removing the lower sash.
Next, I address the upper sash, which is often painted shut after decades of disuse. When necessary, additional protective sheeting is installed outside the window to contain paint debris.
After carefully freeing the upper sash and removing accumulated paint from the surrounding surfaces, I remove the parting beads that separate the upper and lower sashes.
Whenever possible, I preserve the original parting beads. If they are damaged or heavily painted, I fabricate replacements using clear vertical-grain fir.
With these components removed, the upper sash can be carefully extracted for restoration.
3. Restoring Smooth Operation
Once both sashes have been removed, I inspect the window components and address areas of friction, paint buildup, and deterioration that prevent proper movement.
The objective is straightforward: restore the window's original operation while retaining as much historic material as possible.
4. Sash Cords & Counterweights
Traditional double-hung windows rely on a system of sash cords, pulleys, and counterweights to balance the weight of the moving sashes.
I inspect these components and repair or replace sash cords as needed.
Where the original window includes access covers for the weight pockets, I remove them to reach the counterweights. If no access covers exist, I carefully create them to allow the necessary repairs.
Once the sash cords and counterweights are properly secured, the access covers are reinstalled.
5. Reassembly & Final Adjustments
With the necessary repairs completed, I begin reassembly by reinstalling the upper sash, followed by the original or newly fabricated parting beads.
The lower sash is then returned to its frame, and the interior stops and trim are carefully reinstalled.
Finally, I check the movement of both sashes and verify that the sash locks align and function properly.
The result is a restored historic window that opens and closes smoothly, locks securely, and retains the craftsmanship and architectural character of the original.
A window that glides smoothly, locks in place and will last another 80 years.
Built to Last. Worth Preserving.
Historic wood windows were constructed with materials and techniques intended to endure. With thoughtful restoration and continued maintenance, many can provide reliable service for decades to come.