2019-009 Adopting Amendments to the Design Standards for the Historic Districts

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A value of a historic structure, whether residential or commercial, is equal to the sum of its parts. As original materials are removed from a historic structure, it begins to lose its integrity and ultimately its historic value. Historic windows greatly contribute to a property in terms of character and craftsmanship. They were expertly designed and constructed from high-quality materials. Preserving historic windows in place keeps original, high quality materials with the property and out of the landfill. The detailing of the window is frequently a key to the characteristic in identifying an architectural style. They were designed to not only be aesthetically pleasing, but were necessary as a functioning component to the building by providing light and ventilation. The loss of original windows also has great potential to negatively impact the appearance of a historic property. Building facades lose proportionality and depth as modern replacements are introduced. Historic wood windows can certainly be maintained or restored to working order. Preservation of original !;rchitectural features, including windows, is encouraged in the City of Paris Historic Design Standards. lJevetikeless, tkere is a7 R�uxl?xce if re;rI2cexkext wixltw Xrtlucts tX2t ?re bix, Az -A usel !ty;rrxXeXy ivmers ceeking to "upgrade" their aging properties. culprit of heat gain/loss. The criminalization of "drafty old windows" is nothing new; window manufacturers have long been pointing out the faults of old windows while promoting attractive solutions (their products). New low -e, gas-filled and triple pane replacements may seem like an exciting solution for building owners coping with their monthly energy bill. In reality, heat gain/loss occurs evenly throughout the home or building, with windows only accounting for 25% of waste. Poorly insulated walls and attics are the greater culprit. Even windows in the best condition can be made more energy efficient. Heat gain/loss through windows occurs in Three different ways: air infiltration, heat transfer (conduction) and solar gain (radiation). There are a number of low cost, reversible and historically appropriate strategies that can be used to reduce heat gain/loss. it should be noted that implementing a combination of any of these techniques can be just as effective in arresting heat gain/loss as a brand new window. 7 W[6'11WTJ ;- -er F Mp up , stripping drastically reduces air infiltration at meeting points in the window. This can easily be done by any homeowner and offers a great return on investment. Storm windows can be used to provide an additional transparent barrier between the outside and inside of a historic structure. Their installation creates an insulating air pocket which reduces heat transfer. Storm windows can be hung from the interior of a window and simply clipped or wedged into place (some even use magnets) for easy removal and cleaning. Some exterior storm windows may be appropriate provided that they have a thin fra and are used with either a decorative screen or in a manner that does not obscure any architectural details. I Shades, Shutters and Screens can all be used to prevent solar gain during the hot summer months or seasons where windows receive direct sunlight. Some interior shades also have insulating qualities that can reduce heat transfer. There are many resources available for information on window repair and replacement through the Texas Historical Commission and the National Parks service. The City of Paris Historic Preservation office is happy to provide guidance when it comes to historic windows or other elements of the structure.