HPC of South Bend and St. Joseph County - Standards Update Draft

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City of South Bend and St. Joseph County Historic Preservation Guidelines 109 For More Information: Windows Different aspects of a window or storm. Lite Patterns When replacing original windows, the replacement should match the number, placement, and general appearance of the existing with regards to the number of glass panes . When replacing replacement windows, the new windows should match the number, placement, and general appearance of the original windows with regards to the number of glass panes when evidence of the historic condition is available. Leaded and Stained-Glass panels shall be retained and repaired whenever possible. When beyond repair, the glass shall be retained and secured within a new frame and installed as appropriate in correlation with the repair or replacement of the original window . Where true divided lites were used historically, using them in replacement windows is preferred; alternatives, such as Snap-on muntins applied to the exterior may be considered on secondary elevations. Using strips of material inserted between double-glazing panes or only on the interior of the window are not appropriate . Frames and Trim Match as closely as possible, the profile of the sash and its components to those of the original. A historic, often wood, window has a complex profile. Within the window’s casing, the sash steps back to the plane of the glazing (glass) in several increments. These increments, which individually only measure eights or quarter inches, are important details . They distinguish the actual window from the surrounding wall surface . When replacing original windows, the frame width of the perimeter and of each sash or leaf shall not be altered, specifically when replacement windows fit within the frames of old windows and create a wider perimeter frame. The glazing areas of each window shall not be reduced, and exterior trim elements shall be retained, or restored in order to retain the relationship between the window and the surrounding wall surface . Storm Windows and Screens Install storm windows on the interior, when feasible . This will allow the character of the original window to be seen from the public way . If a storm is to be installed on the exterior, match the sash design of the original windows. It should fit tightly within the window opening without the need for sub-frames or panning around the perimeter. Match the color of the storm window sash with the color of the window frame; do not use an anodized or a milled (silvery metallic) finish. Historic wood storm windows are the most appropriate, especially when they have screen counterparts . Use an insect screen to enhance energy conservation and ventilation . Fit the screen to match the historic window shape and character . Half screen units that cover only the lower sash opening are acceptable . When storm windows are used for the main house, they should also be required on basement and attic windows to maintain uniformity . Vinyl, or composite materials for storm windows is not appropriate when seen from the exterior . Storm windows which project beyond the frame of the window opening or wall plane are inappropriate . Shutters Historic shutters contribute to the character of a property and offer opportunities for energy conservation. They provide shading and cooling during summer months and protection to windows during storms . Window awnings and shutters are appropriate in limited circumstances. They are only appropriate on specific architectural styles, which may also determine the appropriateness of double or single shutters per opening . Operable shutters are preferred . This helps support sustainability and authenticity objectives . New shutters should match the opening that they frame in size and shape . If shutters are missing, use historical documentation, or examples from properties of similar period and style to assure authenticity. Vinyl, composite materials, and non-operable shutters are inappropriate. Blocked Openings Preserve the size and proportion of a historic window opening . Reducing an original opening to accommodate a smaller window or increasing it to receive a larger window is inappropriate . Preserve a distinctive window opening shape, for example arched tops, or oval shapes . Enclosing a historic window opening is inappropriate, as is adding a new window opening . This is especially important as the historic ration of solid to void is a character defining feature. Significantly increasing the amount of glass on a primary or character defining elevation will negatively affect the integrity of the structure. Adjustment of openings only for the purposes of change of use may be considered on secondary elevations. Greater flexibility in installing new windows or blocking openings may be considered on the sides and rear of the buildings .Return to the Table of ContentsDRAFT