✓ Like-New Look

✓ Proper Function

✓ Energy Efficient

Step 1: Glazing Removal

Old glazing putty is softened using steam or air gun heat. The putty and glazing points are scraped away and the glass is carefully removed and cleaned. The glass is labeled prior to removal so that each surviving pane returns to its historic location.

Step 2: Paint removal

Depending on the project, some or all paint is removed using infrared and air gun heat. Paint removal rids the piece of any toxic lead layers, makes molding details sharp again and can lighten a sash by many ounces. The glass shelves, or “rabbets”, are scraped down to bare wood.

Step 3: Wood Prep & Repair

All surfaces are carefully sanded to avoid damage to moulding details. Areas of rot, broken or split muntins, loose joinery, and other imperfections are addressed. We use in-kind wood species for any “Dutchmen” repairs. Often a full part replacement may be necessary.

Step 4: Glaze + Paint

We use Sarco Type M or Allback pure linseed glazing putty to set or “bed” and top-glaze all sash and doors. Both products provide a seal that remains flexible over many years. The glazing is applied and smoothed with a putty knife.

We hand-brush exterior sides with at least three coats of true linseed oil paint (self-priming). Interior sides get high-quality oil or latex paint.

Step 5: Energy Efficiency Upgrades

We also replace or add period-appropriate wood storms and/or screens to increase energy efficiency without detracting from a building’s historic character. Storms also act to protect the primary, historic sashes from the elements.