[MassHistPres] Low-e coated windows in historic districts

[David Fixler]

Depending upon the size and type of window, it is possible to get replacement glass with low-e coatings that are virtually invisible – it is not one size fits all.  I have worked on mid-20th century buildings on replacing clear polished plate glass – of all sizes – with laminated glass with a low-e coating on the interlayer that is virtually indistinguishable from the original glass.  This a type of glazing that will work in many historic windows – not as big an energy boost as going to an IGU, but the benefits are a thin profile, flatness, and relative permanence ( no concern about failed seals in IGUs).

David

David Fixler FAIA, LEED AP BD+C
Principal, Design and Preservation

EYP
Architecture & Engineering
Independence Wharf / 470 Atlantic Ave – Seventh Floor / Boston / MA 02210
T 617 305 9871 / C 617 733 4287 / eypae.com<http://www.eypae.com/>

Ranked #1 in Energy & Sustainability<http://www.architectmagazine.com/architects/the-2014-architect-50-best-in-sustainability_o.aspx?dfpzone=business.architect_50>



From: masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu [mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of heartwood
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 7:16 AM
To: Dennis De Witt <djd184 at verizon.net>; Sarah White <swhite at somervillema.gov>
Cc: MHC MHC listserve <masshistpres at cs.umb.edu>
Subject: Re: [MassHistPres] Low-e coated windows in historic districts

I’ll do my best here.......
only new windows are manufactured with low-e coatings so that would mean using replacement windows...one could conceivable replace original historic glass with low-e glass but that may
not meet with LDC regulations...
there are ‘stick on’ applied low-e film coatings available...the coatings respond to changes in temperature and tend to break glass in the process...the product has a life span, good luck removing it when that time comes...
many of the windows that I have worked on in buildings that hold historic artifacts have low-e tinted shades installed...

you may want to contact one of these outfits for technical information
http://www.solarwindowtint.com/Archival_Window_Film.html
http://www.keltechnologies.com/index.php/engineered-shading-systems/low-e-shades.html

hope that helps...
....jade
jade l. mortimer
heartwood window restoration

From: Dennis De Witt<mailto:djd184 at verizon.net>
Sent: Monday, March 28, 2016 6:10 PM
To: Sarah White<mailto:swhite at somervillema.gov>
Cc: MHC MHC listserve<mailto:masshistpres at cs.umb.edu>
Subject: Re: [MassHistPres] Low-e coated windows in historic districts

Windows may not be replaced in Brookline's LHDs.

Tinted windows for new construction are also not allowed

Storms with Low-e are available.

Dennis De Witt




On Mar 28, 2016, at 3:28 PM, Sarah White <swhite at somervillema.gov<mailto:swhite at somervillema.gov>> wrote:


Are there any LHD commissions out there that do not allow windows with low-e coatings to be used on historic structures in those districts? If so, why do you not allow them? If you don't allow them, what do you recommend/require that property owners doe in lieu of them? What, if any, have been the repercussions from the community?

I am well aware of the weatherizing/storm windows, etc. techniques and use them myself, but what specific studies and data do you point your applicants to in order to underscore your decisions?

Look forward to hearing your responses.

Best,
Sarah M. White
City Planner - Zoning & Preservation
Mayor's Office of Strategic Planning & Community Development
City of Somerville
93 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02143
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