April 1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS STAFF REPORT RECOMMENDATION The existing steel sash windows are clearly a state of advanced deterioration. Furthermore, the existing single glazed windows are thermally inefficient by current standards leading to condensation which contributes to continuing decay. Present conditions are exacerbated by intrusive alteration at the location of the window air conditioners. The standards specifically address the issue of steel windows indicating that if they are removed their replacements should resemble the original, even to the extent of returning to the original condition. Although the proposed replacement windows are casement windows, their frames and sashes are wood. Installation, including the required "frame expanders" specified by the manufacturer to fit the standard wood window sizes to the existing openings will yield a much heavier appearance in the frame & sash and net considerably reduced glass area. The transom panels above the casements have been eliminated entirely in the proposed alteration. For the reasons above, Staff recommends denial of the proposal. The documentation submitted included four options for utilizing the stock wood window sizes proposed by the manufacturer of the replacement windows. Of these, the "option #1" is the most acceptable proposal, as it at least maintains the appearance of having the correct number of window panes when the muntin inserts are utilized, and "frame expanders" are not required. The two windows which presently have window air conditioners are especially problematic as they are butchered in their present form and as far as Staff can tell, will continue a butchered appearance after the proposed replacements. These windows have not been specifically addressed in the proposals submitted. It seems very unfortunate that such extensive rehabilitation should be undertaken while still yielding an unsatisfactory condition. With regard to the above concerns, Staff recommends that if the window replacement is allowed that it be in conjunction with the elimination of the window air conditioners or that the contractor or manufacturer be required to provide drawings detailing these conditions to the satisfaction of the Staff before these windows may be installed.