HISTORIC SAVANNAH
Window and Door Restoration
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We've studied and honed our techniques to ensure the best possible results. Repairs begin with the least invasive methods. The following are our preferred and recommended materials, based on experience and scientific research.
Door and window maintenance is required in Savannah's Historic Districts. Certificates of Appropriateness are not required for routine maintenance. They are required for any changes to the exterior visible from the street.
See: Section 8-3030 from Savannah's Metropolitan Planning Commission Page 14 - 15
In the City of Savannah, window repair does not require a building permit. However, replacing windows requires both a building permit and approval from the Historic District Board of Review.
See: Residential Projects That Do Not Need a Permit from Savannah Development Services Department
See: Residential Projects That Need a Permit from Savannah Development Services Department
In Georgia, trade licensing is not required for window work.
See: O.C.G.A. § 43-41-17 Traditional Specialty Contractors from Georgia's State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors
Paint Stripping
Methods
Back to Nature
Paint Stripper
Cobra Speed Heater
Small tests are done to determine the most efficient process.
Water based and non-caustic, but effective on lead, oil, and acrylic paints. Most appropriate for natural wood refinishes.
Designed for window restoration and lead paint. It heats below the vapor point for lead.
Glazing
Methods
Red Devil Glazing
Sarco Glazing
Rick's Glass
Hand-tooled to ensure proper adhesion and weatherization
Our preferred glazing putty. It can be immediately primed with oil primer and finishes easily and smoothly.
Historically accurate and used by the National Parks.
Local supplier for window glass. Reliable and efficient service.
Wood Repair
Methods
Abatron
Emergent Structures
Guerry Lumber
Repair what is possible, replace only what is necessary
Two-part epoxy designed specifically for historic woodwork.
Non-profit that helps divert historic building materials from landfills. A great source for old-growth wood and salvaged window parts.
Local resource for new and fine lumber.
Painting
Methods
Benjamin Moore Long-Dry Oil Primer
Benjamin Moore
Acrylic Paint
B & B Paint Company
Hand-brushed to ensure proper coating, finish, and adhesion
Primers are an important adhesive layer between the substrate and final paint coats. Oil-based primer can cover any paint base; the longer it dries, the better the finish.
Benjamin Moore makes the highest pigmented paint. Acrylic paint has been proven to be more weather resistant, flexible, and long lasting than oil-based paint. It also has fewer VOCs.
Local supplier for paint. Great service and advice.
Hardware
Methods
Spring Bronze
Bradley Lock and Key
House of Antique Hardware
Repair and clean when possible and feasible
Preferred weather stripping choice. It ages well, lasts 50+ years, and is adaptable for both windows and doors.
Local locksmith familiar with historic locks.
Great online source for reproduction hardware.