Preservation in Ocean Grove

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Historic Preservation Commission*

*But were afraid to ask

Let the sun shine in

Dear Miss Victoria Anna,

This old house I purchased needs new windows, are there any guidelines to follow? - Jonathan & Betsy Paine

Dear Paines - Windows are one of the most important features in a home. Altering their size, shape, pattern, or location can seriously change the appearance of a home. Therefore, window replacement must be done carefully and sensitively.

When talking about windows it is important to include all the different parts of the window and it’s surrounds. These elements include the window frame, sash, glazing, sills, heads, moldings, exterior shutters and window hardware.

Most commonly, double hung windows were used in ‘Victorian’ homes. They were rectangular in shape or had low profile arched or peaked top sashes. Most were vertically orientated, being considerable longer than they were wide. Glazing patterns were determined by the home’s architectural style. Windows were usually located symmetrically in a building façade. Upper floor windows aligned vertically with first floor windows.

The preference is always to repair and restore existing windows whenever possible. If it is not feasible, replacement windows should resemble the originals as closely as possible. Wood, metal-clad, or vinyl clad windows that match the original’s dimensions and glazing patterns should be placed into the original openings.

When replacing windows, care should be taken to maintain the surrounding sills, moldings, and crown moldings.

When adding additional windows, great care must not only be taken in selecting windows that match or compliment the existing windows but also in placing them so as to create an appropriate relationship to the existing windows. The surrounding moldings must match those of the existing windows.

Many ‘Victorian’ homes have bays which feature windows on each wall. However, these bays are structural as they are grounded in the foundation and often extend the full height of the home. Modern greenhouse or slip in bay windows do not have the same grounding and are not appropriate.

Picture windows are modern elements that were not used in ‘Victorian’ buildings. Wide openings were filled with multiple, vertically oriented windows connected by thin strips. Awning, hopper, casement, and jalousie windows are likewise not acceptable. French doors are always preferred over sliding glass doors.

Glazing patterns for windows are determined by the style of a home. For example a Colonial Revival home may have 1/1 or 6/1 windows while Queen Anne homes usually have 2/2 windows. (1/1 means that each sash of the double hung window has 1 pane of glass. 6/1 means that the upper sash has 6 panes of glass divided by muntins while the lower sash only has one pane of glass.) Each home should use one consistent pattern of glazing. True divided light windows are preferred. Clip in muntins, window grilles or grids are not acceptable. Simulated divided light pane assemblies may be used.

The use of screen and storm windows is widespread. These should match the windows dimensions and shape and be painted to match the window frames. Storm/screen windows made of unfinished aluminum are not appropriate.

Window frames and molding are usually painted a darker color than the body of a house.
If louvered or flat panel shutters are placed on either side of a window, they must be functional or give the appearance that they are. This means they should be attached to the window frame and fit between the windowsill and lintel and each be 1/2 the width of the window. As always, wood is the material of choice. If the shutter is vinyl or another synthetic material, it should be at least 1 inch thick.

Current codes do add some restrictions concerning windows, so it is wise to check them out before planning any window alteration. In new construction, windows must meet impact resistance standards. When a building is close to a property line, walls must meet strict fire rating standards which can effect the ability to add new windows.

Windows play a major role in the rhythm of a building’s exterior. Therefore any alteration to a window’s style, size, shape, glazing or location requires serious study. A homeowner should really make every effort to maintain a window’s original configurations whenever replacing them.

Remember you can always contact the Historic Preservation Commission Office
they will be able to assist you in selecting the right windows.

Let the sunshine in, regards Ms. Victoria Anna

-Posted 1/27/05