TWEAKS + RETROFITS

Problem-solving doesn’t necessarily mean new windows. Wood sash and steel casements can be restored and weather stripped. Secondary glazing—storm windows or interior inserts—improve efficiency and comfort.

“That bugaboo of the past?” Alison just laughed and said it’s a practical answer. They don’t have to be taken down, ever— the screen and the storm panel are there year-round, important for a tall house with owners who won’t climb ladders. They protect the weather-beaten outside of the prime windows while providing double glazing yet are a reversible solution. Furthermore, they’re made better these days and come in colors other than white to blend into trim. You can even pick your screen-mesh size and material: nylon, aluminum, or bronze.

Good design coupled with today’s new windows can solve other problems. Consider the house shown on page 21. The 1970s cabin had style—that prow of windows!—but it wasn’t particularly well built. David Heide Design Studio stayed true to the architecture by upgrading the angled prow and building a one-room addition behind it, emulating characteristics of the house. Heide kept the glazing areas and the low awning windows but tweaked the proportions, adding heavier mullions. New double-glazed windows by Pella echo the originals.

Marvin has long been heralded for their wood windows and extensive customization. Other companies are stepping up. Pella’s recent expansion of their Architect Series wood window and patio door collection is an example. Pella told us that in-depth research with architects and builders led to the new designs. Their Architect Series Reserve line offers even more authentic historical details. The hardware, too, has improved, in response to architects reporting that contemporary window hardware “can be ugly.”

Custom window manufacturers do, of course, offer custom solutions. (See the selective list on p. 79.) You can specify a window that fits any style or period, in wood or a composite material. Furthermore, manufacturers offer inswing and outswing casements, fixed, and pivoting windows as well as retractable rollscreens and other screening systems.

RIGHT Over outswinging casements, magnetic inserts from Allied Window can be swapped seasonally for screens. BELOW Pella’s folding crank in a traditional style is more attractive than the upright plastic cranks that accompany new casement windows. LEFT (top) In a hallway at the Gamble House, an art window assures privacy. (bottom) Though it looks original, the high window with translucent glass was added to obscure the garage.