Historic windows workshops in October

Special to the Viewpoint
By Janice Calpo

Take a good look at the windows of a historic house, and it's easy to see just how important a role they play in its character. Windows are an integral part of the original architectural design, and are set at a depth within their frames, showing texture and relief in their handcrafted sashes. Distinctively wavy old glass reflects early hand-rolled techniques. Windows were built right into the wall by skilled craftsmen, and were solid, stable, and weather-tight, with easy operation.

Many of these historic windows are approaching 60 to over 100 years old, and could be encountering problems understandable for their age. Windows may stick or rattle, have broken or missing parts, cracked or broken glass, wood that has become exposed and deteriorated, or may simply no longer be airtight. These are all problems that can be fixed. Historic windows were designed so that individual parts could be removed and repaired, then put back in good working order to last another hundred years.

A one-day Historic Windows Workshop, co-sponsored by Sierra Curtis Neighborhood Association and Sacramento Bungalow Heritage Association will be given twice in October. The first workshop date is Saturday, Oct. 6 and the second is Sunday, Oct. 7. The workshops will give homeowners an opportunity to learn up-close the techniques of basic repair, maintenance, weatherization, and restoration of historic wood windows. Volunteer instructors from the community will demonstrate how they worked on their own windows while preserving the character of their historic homes. For further information, or to register, email historicwindows@sierra2.org, or call the Sierra 2 office at 452-3005.

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