Restoring Historic Wood Windows and Doors (Including Sash Mechanics)

(3 days) – 8:00 am to 3:00 pm daily

Old windows continue to be important to the mechanics of historic buildings as well as admirable architectural and woodworking achievements. As one of the few parts of a façade serving as both an interior and exterior feature, windows and doors are nearly always an important part of the vintage character of a building. In most structures, windows and doors also comprise a considerable amount of the historic fabric of the wall plane. Wood windows that are repaired and properly maintained will have greatly extended service lives while contributing to the historic character of the edifice. 

Now, you can put your piece of history back to work with a little help and a lot of guidance from our preservation specialists. The methods we support encourage the retention and repair of original windows whenever possible using old-fashioned craftsmanship combined with modern know-how. During the workshop, participants will practice hands-on techniques to restore a wood sash and window from start to finish and review routine maintenance measures–such as weatherstripping or repairing a broken sash cord–that may extend the life of historic windows. Well-maintained historic windows can be airtight, weather-resistant, and should last generations without needing replacement parts. 

Prior woodworking experience is helpful but not required.

After completing the workshop participants will:

• Understand how to map and number sashes prior to removal.
• Be able to disassemble and reassemble windows.
• Know how to repair or replace window chains or ropes.
• Recognize how to weatherize an old sash.

• Appreciate the steps to take a wood sash or door through the restoration process.
• Be familiar with specialized epoxies to repair deteriorated window or door pieces.
• Recognize the materials, methods, and tools to safely remove old paint and glaze.
• Be aware of painting and refinishing tools, techniques, and materials.
• Realize how to reglaze windows and replace damaged glass.

The workshop will be held at the historic Millhafen Farm—the headquarters of Craftwork Training Center and LimeWorks.us—located at 3145 State Road, Telford, PA 18969. A non-refundable deposit of $100 is required two weeks in advance with the balance due at the beginning of the workshop. All the necessary materials and tools will be supplied and a light lunch is provided for your convenience. The program will start promptly at 8:00 am. Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete the check-in process and come appropriately dressed and prepared for hands-on training. To ensure an exceptional learning experience, the class size is limited. However, a minimum of 6 participants is required to hold the workshop. Should a class not reach the minimum participants, we will notify all registered participants of cancellation at least 10 days prior to the workshop date.

Special Group Options
Companies or organizations with 10 or more participants may qualify for a training program at our location on a date that works with their company and our trainers. Call 215-536-6706 for details.

Please note, last-minute registrations (within 48 hours of the workshop date), are not valid until a confirmation email or phone call is sent from our staff.

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