Scope of Work
- Restoration of original window frames
- Full replacement of deteriorated sashes
- Installation of new sashes built to historic specifications
- Install new weatherstrip
- Integration of weight-and-chain hardware
- Use of wavy “restoration glass” for historical accuracy
- Protection of interior surfaces and containment of renovation dust
Points of Interest
- The new sashes were indistinguishable from the originals, down to the grain and joinery
- Restoration glass brings old-world charm while enhancing thermal performance
- Seamless integration of new sashes with original frames gives the windows a rejuvenated—but not “brand new”—appearance
Materials & Techniques
- Materials Used
Original frame wood, custom wood sashes, wavy restoration glass, brass chain, new weights - Techniques
Frame scraping and sanding, Dutch patching, sash fabrication, stained wood finish - Tools Used
Traditional woodworking tools, glazing equipment, industrial-grade sanding and painting tools - Waterproofing
Sashes sealed and frames caulked; interior protected during work with floor and cabinet coverings - Installation Notes
New sashes installed into restored frames; weight-and-chain systems re-calibrated for heavier glass units
History of the Brooklyn Brownstone on St. John’s Place
Built in 1899, this Brooklyn Brownstone on St. John’s Place is unique. Unlike many nearby homes, it still retains its original wood windows. Today, this feature has vanished from most non-landmarked streets in the borough. Unlike areas with landmark protections that require preservation of historical elements, this street allows for unrestricted window replacements. Most homeowners have chosen to replace their windows.
The owners of this home, however, saw value in preserving the craftsmanship and authenticity of the original architecture. Their decision to restore rather than replace their deteriorated 19th-century windows set this renovation apart.
Building Information
Type of Building: Private Residential Brownstone
Location: St. John’s Place, Crown Heights, Brooklyn, NY
Year Built: 1899
Restoration Completed: 2018
Why the Work Was Needed
The home’s original windows had fallen into severe disrepair. Frames and sills were crumbling, and glass panes were cracked or missing. In addition, aluminum storm windows had been awkwardly installed in a past try to insulate the home. Replacing with modern energy-efficient units would have been faster and more economical. Yet, the owners were committed to preserving the historic character of their home.
What we did
Right Path Windows & Restoration was engaged after a lengthy and thoughtful selection process by the homeowners. Over six months of planning culminated in two weeks of on-site work led by our dedicated team.
After removing the outdated storm windows, our team began the meticulous restoration of the existing window frames. Where possible, original wood was preserved; where deterioration was too advanced, the affected portions were replaced with matching material.
The original sashes were too fragile to be reused and could not support insulated glazing. Our team custom-fabricated new sashes in our workshop, precisely matching the 1899 profiles. These were paired with modern weight-and-chain systems and heavier counterweights to accommodate double-pane insulated glass.
To maintain the period-correct aesthetic, we installed wavy restoration glass, which mirrors the texture of old hand-blown panes. The result is visually authentic, historically accurate windows that offer vastly improved performance.