window assessment.pdf
3 Converse Street Suite 201 Palmer, MA 01069 PH 413-283-2553 FX 413-289-8993
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Sanctuary Windows
General Assessment:
The configuration of sanctuary windows should be addressed on the basis that there are three distinct conditions that
have been observed on the premises.
• Incidental fenestration so identified as smaller masonry openings that contain a rectilinear panel of stained
glass. These openings are consistently found as originally installed and due to size and exposure appear to
be in reasonable condition if not complying to the energy code.
• Oriel fenestration, singular opening facing south at the altar end of the church containing predominantly
stained glass and some painted glass. The opening has been fitted with a segmented exterior storm panel
that appears to be of varying glazing products and is in disrepair. The installation is positioned at a
nominal distance from the stained-glass assembly and the created air space between glazing methods
creates severe heat gain without venting resulting in increased stresses within the stained-glass assembly.
• Primary fenestration consisting of both decorative trim accents and stained glass and painted glass inserts to
these trim profiles. These dominate the east and west facades with smaller openings on the north and south
exposures. These openings have also been fitted with segmented storm panels. The attempt to provide
some degree of weathering protection and thermal performance has been crudely executed and aggravates
the stresses experienced on the openings that face east and west due to solar and thermal ranges during the
course of a normal day. The single pane storm panels are in close proximity to the stained glass and the
dead air space is not vented thus permitting increased temperature gains and structural stresses.
Additionally, the installations of storm panels altered original trefoil trim profiles by routing original
materials to bring the installations very close to the plane of original glazing. The crudely created assembly
does not address condensation and the failures due to excessive moisture are seen in deterioration of the
storm panel framing and caulking deposits at the windowsills. The trefoil trim has also been poorly
addressed for maintenance and cosmetic efforts to cover deterioration has allowed accelerated damage to
continue in the vicinity of the windowsills.
All windows are in stages of lapses in minimal maintenance. Minor repairs to window stability due to damage to
glass elements, caming distortions, and failure of caulking are readily observed. Most consistent is the lack of
periodic cleaning of the windows and evidence of some improper attempts of cleaning. The latter creating
significant deterioration of the painted glazing elements.
Removal of the current storm panels is necessary due to their own deterioration and the necessity to address the
damage to the trefoil trim. The apparent issues with the stained glass can only be effectively addressed with
physical access to both the interior and exterior exposures of these assemblies. Assessment will need to be made
regarding the proper repair and safe keeping of the stained glass panels when trefoil sill replacements and profile
restorations are being executed. Consideration would need to be made to either install an insulated (double glazed)
storm panel over the trefoil trim as a means to protect both the trim and stained glass or position the insulated storm
panel in the position of the stained glass which would allow the full expression of the trefoil profile to be
appreciated in both the exterior and interior planes. The removed stained-glass units would then be reinstalled, after
restoration to the interior of the storm units via frame extensions.
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While the goal of the historical commission is to have the owners retain all stained glass it is the intent of the owners
to attain a maintainable property respectful of the unique character and detailing of the building. Restoration is, at
times, not able to be financially supported when salvaging the building from previous neglect and continuing its
usefulness to the community.
Sincerely,
Lawrence Tuttle, AIA