House Windows Replaced and Capped (Finally)
Living Room window being replacedThe first steps in our house renovation began on May 15th. Over the next 4 days all of the old single-pane wood windows (32 windows in all - 3rd floor windows were previously done) were replaced with more modern dual-pane varieties. The windows have a lifetime guarantee - something that will more than likely pay dividends. In addition, all of the outside wood frames were capped (55 total windows) with an aluminum product that won't rust and should gives us years of a no maintenance solution. Finally, new shutters are replacing the old, broken ones that have adorned the house for years.
While contracted work was happening on the outside, Brothers Jeff Damcott and Rich Bartnik, along with most of the active Brothers living in the house over the summer, spent grueling hours insulating the voids surrounding the window frames, sanding and painting many of the common area doors on the ground floor and in the kitchen area.
Work will continue over the summer with removal of the dishwasher and a general cleanup of the wall behind the dishwasher. We will add reinforced fiberglass panels and modernize the stainless steel counter/sink area. Then, right before the brothers arrive for the fall semester, a complete housecleaning will be conducted. While our house is in good condition, a good cleaning of our hot water/heating system, floors and walls will save time and money in the future.
Immediately after our summer work is completed, planning for next year's projects will begin. The major piece of work in 2013 will be repair of the side porch which is close to condemnation by the State College Borough. Planned work includes repair of the porch flooring, the bar area, the glass block windows and restoration of the french doors leading to both the porch and the bar.
