New Bedford Preservation Coalition
Invites Homeowners to Wooden Window
Restoration Workshop on May 22

In celebration of National Preservation Month, the New Bedford Preservation Coalition is sponsoring a free, hands-on workshop on restoring wooden windows at the Corson Maritime Learning Center (adjacent to the Visitor Center) on Saturday, May 22, 2010 from 9AM-12Noon. The workshop will be presented by Jade Mortimer of the New England Window Restoration Alliance (NWRA). The NWRA website (www.windowrestorationne.org) offers a tip sheet that features the top ten reasons to restore your wooden windows.
 
The workshop, geared to homeowners of older properties, is an informative and informal workshop that will result in a new-found confidence in working with your old windows. The workshop features:
 
* Brief outline of lead safe practices
* Outline of window and its components
* Common ‘issues’ with old windows
* Energy efficiency techniques
* How to remove top and bottom sash
* How to replace ropes/chains
* How to install weather stripping
* Demonstration of ‘steambox’ glass removal
* Demonstration of paint removal
* Glass cutting and installation
 
The workshop will also dispel a number of myths that exist about wooden windows. The Coalition claims that wooden windows, if properly cared for, can last hundreds of years. The typical warranty on vinyl replacement windows is 20 years. “Most people don’t realize their older home still has its original wooden windows,” notes Jan DaSilva, Preservationist with New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. “If a home is over 75 years old and it still has its original wooden windows”, continued Ms. DaSilva, “there is no reason not to believe that these windows, if properly maintained, shouldn’t last another 75 years or longer. It clearly makes sense to take care of them. These windows just need some TLC.”
 
The Coalition strongly objects to the myth that historic wooden windows are drafty and not energy efficient. “With properly maintained windows and storms,” notes Lisa Sughrue, Executive Director of WHALE, “homeowners can have energy efficiency and protect the historic integrity and value of their homes. Homeowners don’t have to choose between retaining their original wooden windows and energy efficiency.” This workshop is designed to show homeowners how easily they can care for their wooden windows.
 
“Windows are an important architectural feature of historic homes and properties” said Anne Louro, New Bedford Preservation Planner and Preservation Society Board Member. “They provide definite clues about the period a property was built and, as a result, are important to retain and maintain.”
 
Since participants will experience a hands-on experience at this workshop, space is limited. Anyone interested in participating must RSVP to WHALE at 508-997-1776. Supplies will be provided. Participants are encouraged to wear work clothes, sensible shoes and bring a sash.
 
The New Bedford Preservation Coalition is a collaborative of New Bedford organizations with preservation as the main focus of their mission. The purpose of the Coalition is to facilitate a cohesive network and forum that encourages support, collaboration, and educational opportunities. Members of the New Bedford Preservation Coalition include the City of New Bedford, New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, WHALE, New Bedford Whaling Museum, Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum, New Bedford Preservation Society, the Military Museum at Fort Rodman, and New Bedford Historical Commission.

FACTS ABOUT HISTORIC WINDOWS
(from New England Window Restoration Alliance website)

Many historic windows have been replaced because they were drafty, operated poorly or were painted shut. All of these problems can be alleviated at a fraction of the cost of replacement windows. Proper weatherization will eliminate the drafts and provide a smooth operating sash. Some minor maintenance projects such as rope replacement and lubricating the pulleys can be done at the same time.

Energy efficiency - Vintage and historic windows can be made as energy efficient as new double pane windows. Most energy (warm or cool) is lost as a result of loose fitting sash.  These problems can quickly be solved by homeowners or professionals using easily obtainable materials. With properly installed storms and weatherized windows, you can save money on energy and protect the value and aesthetics of your original windows.

Ease of repair - Vintage and historic windows were designed so that individual parts could be repaired or replaced if damaged. Sash cords, weights, pulleys, hardware and salvaged glass are readily available. Non-standard parts can be milled by local wood shops. The sash can be removed from the window openings, failed paint and putty can be stripped, missing or damaged parts repaired or replaced, weather-strip installed, and the sash reinstalled in good working order. More often than not, windows can be economically repaired, or fine-tuned to operate correctly for many generations to come.