[MassHistPres] Restoring windows and lead paint issues

[Deane Rykerson]

On Dec 30, 2009, at 11:16 AM, Tucker, Jonathan wrote:

> However, the quality of lumber depends on its source. 


As a student of wood technology, and a recipient of a grant for wood kiln design from Department of Energy, I should put in my 2 rings.

 'Old growth' wood may be somewhat denser, but there is nothing wrong with farmed softwood, if cut, dried and graded properly.
1.  for critical pieces such as window frames, the wood should be quarter sawn.  Heartwood only should be used and knots, if any, should be limited to pin knots.
2.  A huge, unrecognized problem in new wood is the drying process.  When thrown into a commercial kiln, quick drying often causes stresses in the cellular structure including 'honeycombing' that weaken the wood and invite rot.  The lumber should be air dried for several months before the kiln (or if you have the time, air dried one year per inch thickness)
3.  flashing, flashing, flashing correctly.

It sounds expensive, but if the glass lasts hundreds of years, why shouldn't the frames?

For more info, see USDA publications and books by Bruce Hoadley.

Deane Rykerson AIA LEEDAP
Rykerson Architecture
1 Salt Marsh Lane
Kittery Point ME 03905
207-439-8755

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