[MassHistPres] mill building windows

[jade]

yesterday i met with the new owner of an old brick mill building in holyoke...i was under the impression that i would be visiting the site in order to submit an estimate proposal to restore the windows...it turns out that the owner, though he has an architect, is looking for suggestions on how to keep to an estimated budget of $100,000 to restore 52 (plus) window sash sets...the sash are mostly 15 over 15 and 20 over 20 and 56"x120"...most are in poor condition requiring wood member and glass replacement and i know his budget will not cover all the sash...he is being realistic and will review the numbers to see what he can come up with...

in the mean time, he is asking for alternatives to restoration/replication along the lines of closing up some of the openings,  perhaps installing simple artistic features or some alternative to the original windows...as a window restorer/preservationist, my inclination is to maintain the historic fabric and character of the building...the alternative could be that he removes all the wood sash and installs vinyl or aluminum replacements...

has anyone here been presented with a similar situation with an old brick mill building?  are there any acceptable alternatives?  it's possible that a temporary infill could be installed and in a year or two or more there will be enough income generated that the window restoration project can  be completed in full.....

i'd appreciate any feedback you can offer...thanks....

jade mortimer
heartwood building & restoration
hawley, ma
413-339-4298