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WEB-EXCLUSIVE: Additional Tips on Old-Windows Restoration From "Restoration Realities" episode DRTR-112

Old-Window Inspection: Can It Be Restored?

• When trying to decide whether you should restore or replace an old window, you might be surprised to find that just below the surface of a seemingly unsalvageable piece of wood is quality wood.

• Inspecting with an awl or a pen knife will allow you to see beneath the surface to make an accurate decision.

• In many cases the decayed or damaged wood is only near the surface, which means the window can be restored keeping the historic look of the structure.

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Removing old glazing with a de-glazing tool.

Glass and Glazing

• Glazed windows offer better insulation against the elements and help reduce outside noise.

• Most historic homes have single glazed glass in windows.

• If you opt for single-pane windows because of their traditional look, choose ones in well-made wood frames, and combine them with snug-fitting storm panels to boost their energy efficiency.

• Window glazing is rated on three criteria: how well it insulates, how much light it lets through, and how effectively it blocks heat from the sun.
  

  Adding a back-bed of new glazing before reinstalling glass.

• Knead the glazing-compound putty until it is soft and sticky.

• Roll the glazing putty into a "rope" shape.

• Using your hands to lay the putty into the groove, outline the wood frame with putty where glass will be placed.

• Carefully place glass back into window.

• Cut excess putty away with a glazing knife.

RESOURCES :

Renovating and Restyling Older Homes: The Professional's Guide to Maximum Value Remodeling
Author: Lawrence Dworin
Publisher: Craftsman Book Company
ISBN: 1572180293
Order this title from Amazon.com.

Selecting and Renovating an Old House: A Complete Guide
Author: United States Department of Agriculture
July 2000
Publisher: Dover Publications
ISBN: 0486409562
Order this title from Amazon.com.

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from Eco-Strip, LLC
The Speedheater Infrared Paint Remover® is a specialized tool for stripping paint or varnish from painted surfaces -- such as exterior facades, windows, doors, wood detailing and other forms of carpentry -- in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. This advanced paint-removal system uses infrared heat to soften paint for faster, cleaner and safer paint removal. It is also helpful for aiding in removal of paint in tight or hard-to-access areas. When used properly, the Speedheater loosens the paint so that it requires little scraping and no sanding for removal. In addition, this system offers a number of specific user and safety benefits: It reduces the need for chemical strippers and other toxic materials. It helps to avoid situations that could produce dangerous lead-dust or lead-gas when removing lead-based paint from old surfaces. It operates at a lower, safer temperature than that of an ordinary heat gun. It saves time and requires less work than some other forms of stripping such as use of a power-sander or heat gun. For more details on this tool and related products, visit the company’s web site:
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