Hi Everyone,
I began this post about my Boston condo windows five days ago, and even made a little video, but when it came to edit it so that it made sense, all I could see were hundreds of words on a page. My tank was on empty. My nagging back turned into an angry beast.
Thank you for all your kind comments, whether posted here or sent via email. I didn’t answer all of them, but I so appreciate your taking the time to write. I know some of you want to help, and I’m fine with you sharing your experiences, as well as what worked or didn’t work for your specific problem. But please, no advice. Lower back pain occurs for dozens of reasons, and mine is no mystery because I’ve had it before. It’s my sacroiliac joint, not my spine. I suspected, and my doctor confirmed it.
Unfortunately, it was affecting my tummy, too. Friday was rough, but I’m much better now.
Please know that I’ve consulted with my doctors, who have recommended a sound treatment plan, and it’s helping.
Still, I am paying attention to the warning. I MUST take more breaks when I hit a wall instead of pushing through as I usually do.
The problem is that taking breaks means a loss of income.*** And that’s a loss on top of a loss in the last three years, primarily due to massive changes with Google.
Not your problem. It’s mine.
However, I sometimes feel this pressure to complete things that are impossible to do quickly, like my windows. We’re about to get into it in a sec.
Some of you are worried about the light fading stuff through my windows.
It’s not. The light at this time of year is too indirect or in shadow to do much harm, although over a period of years, it still could.
Above is silk rot from the sun.
Please understand that I’m well aware of the dangers of UV light. I wrote a post about it and other nightmares with fabric.Â
***
Coincidentally, my son Cale was here for 24 hours from 10:30 Saturday morning to 10:30 this morning. So, he helped me, but we also went for a walk in the rain, did some shopping, and got a healthy smoothie.
***Ugh, it isn’t easy to rest. (Please see above.)
Fortunately, this post is written, I only need to make it better organized totally rewrite the entire bloody thing. ;]
Yes, because in writing this post, I realize now all of the problem with the windows and can be more succinct.
Ironically, I’ve had the window treatments for at least a month. However, they cannot simply be installed, or they’ll get wrecked.
This isn’t just about getting the windows washed and booking the installer.
If only!
The least pressing problem at the moment is the broken window sash in the den.
I’d like to get it fixed, but to simplify things, I can wait on that one. The problem with the busted cord is that the window can no longer stay open on its own.
Above is a close-up.
The image above was taken about two months ago. I have the window propped open with two left-over kitchen tiles.
The biggest problem with the windows is the security bars.
I want them off as I stated the other day.
Here are the issues.
- One can’t just have them removed. They are outside and attached to the building, and if you recall, no changes can occur without written approval, from the architectural commission, and it’s a big deal. Yes, I know. They aren’t original to the building and they are ugly AF. Still, I most likely need formal permission.
- Second, I need approval from the condo association. That one should be okay because:
- As long as the windows are secure, they won’t care.
But then…
- There are building codes. I might need a permit. Why? The living room window connected to the fire escape is considered an egress window. Yes, I know it’s ridiculous. Of course, we will not do anything that would stop one from being able to open up the window and escape.
However, we need to make the windows intruder-proof.
For the last two months, I’ve tried to find a company that can complete all of the window needs.
Dream on!
I have spent hours on this, and either my queries are not answered, or they suddenly disappear. One place has someone answering that sounds like an AI bot. I’m not joking.
Let’s examine how someone might break in and address each one.
1. They open the window and crawl in.
2. Another way someone could break in is by smashing the glass.
Apparently, that one is quite easy to do. However, with the density of buildings, that would be quite risky. I mean, someone would really want to get into that particular unit.
While that’s exceedingly unlikely, the possibility still exists.
And, of course, the issue is that we’re not only talking about my security, but also the security of the other people living in our condominium.
Two years ago, when I was working with an architect, he suggested storm windows with unbreakable glass. That’s a great idea, except I know that they would be prohibitively expensive. On the other hand, they would block out the noise from the garbage and other trucks that use the alley.
But, I don’t have the funds for that. So, let’s scrap that idea.
The best option is security film.
Security film comes in different thicknesses. While the window can still break, it would take a wrecking ball to break the glass, allowing one to access the unit.
 Security film also comes with UV protection. So, then we’re covered.
The film is usually applied to the inside of the glass. It can also be applied to the outside. I am sure it’s not cheap, but a lot less than storm windows.
As for opening the windows and crawling in, what is needed is known as Window Opening Control Device. (WOCD).
They make it impossible to open the window more than a few inches. I’m sure many of you have them. If you live in a high-rise, for example, you most likely have them installed so that people can’t fall out of the window.
B & E are supposed to return to put up some more shelves for me. I don’t know when. However, they can also return to put up the WOCDs. There are four windows, and it shouldn’t take them more than a couple of hours to complete that task.
Ideally, I’d love the bars to be removed before the windows are cleaned. I found the keys to open them up. They were in my storage closet on a shelf very close to the door. Gosh, guys. It was two years ago that the renovation was underway.
Now, the window film people will also clean the windows, but they are so dirty, and I need the frames cleaned as well.
Below is an example of window film and a WOCD
Then, after the windows are clean, I can have the shades installed.
Therefore, I can book the window washers, then book the installer for the Roman shades.
While that’s happening, I can investigate permissions and take any necessary actions.
Once I have the green light, then the security film can be applied, followed by the removal of the bars and the installation of the WOCDs.
Is it any wonder I’m tired?
Below is a video I made last Tuesday, before I had time to mull things over.
Yesterday after our errands and walk in the rain, I noticed a wee sparrow perched on top of one of the security bars. So cute. He was trying to stay dry as it was still raining. I couldn’t help but notice that he was staring at the Gracie panels. I guess he was trying to figure out why the birds weren’t moving. ;]
And now for your surprise.
Yes, David from Romantic English came through as promised! `And the tapestries are gorgeous! More about that soon!
I hope you’re all doing well!
xo,
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23 Responses
I flew to Orlando to attend a weekend workshop by Austin Historical and learned how to restore wood windows. There’s got to be someone who can remove the sashes (from inside!) and re-rope. The existing rope doesn’t look old, but it doesn’t look like the correct quality, so no wonder it failed.
Have you considered Indows? Once again, each one is an investment, but will help with soundproofing and UV protection. Plus, they can be removed by you if you need egress/want to open the window (once re-roped) in nice weather.
Wow, thanks for sharing this journey so candidly, Laurel! It’s never just the physical work, is it—but also coordinating permits, securing approvals, and juggling health in the mix. I really appreciate how you broke down each concern—from the sash cord to the security bars and UV exposure—while keeping a level head about safety and aesthetics.
Security film and WOCDs feel like smart mid-point solutions given the constraints, and your plan to sequence cleaning, film, shades, and bar removal makes a lot of sense. Fingers crossed your back continues to improve—and that you find the perfect team to get this all done smoothly. And that sparrow cameo? Total mood-lifter.
Rooting for you as you piece it all together and finally get to enjoy those tapestries in peace!
Laurel, The wallpaper panels are so beautiful! They add so much warmth and depth to the room. You have made many great decisions. I can’t wait to see the home when you get it to your satisfaction. As I was looking at the beautiful serene wall color in the living room I noticed there wasn’t, as I could see, any grey undertones. Also, there wasn’t an excessive amount of yellow. I love this color. Would you please tell us the direction of the light in this room? Thanks for your sharing this experience!
Hi Laurel. You may have thought of this already, but before applying for any permits, make sure the city isn’t going to turn around and require you to change the glass in the windows near the fire escapes to heat resistant tempered glass. Prewar buildings in Chicago were required to do this a few years ago and it was extremely expensive.
Hi Tsippi,
Oh gawd. Well, I think I’m okay because I’m not replacing the windows. It’s only when something is replaced that they get you with codes.
The fire escape is more for the upper floors. It’s still required for me because technically the den is a bedroom, and there needs to be another way out besides the front door, on that level. It’s easiest to go out the main door, walk 20 feet and out the front door of the building.
On your back issues..I am having the very same problem these days! Is it something we did in ballet class that we are now paying the price for? Love you! and love the wallpaper..gorgeous.
Hi Cathy! I’ll write you via my email!
Kudos to you for persevering through all those details! I never would have imagined. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home and all the work that is going into it!
I am confused… since your windows have bars on them, how could you exit onto the fire escape in an emergency? Unlock the bars with the key? that seems unworkable in a fire. Maybe I need another cup of coffee.
In any event, hats off to you for lining up all the trades people to get your windows cleaned and working properly.
Hi Caryl,
Yes, the bars are unlocked with a key.
Please don’t install storm windows. I live in a 1914 farmhouse and had all the windows replaced and new storms installed 35 years ago. It helped dramatically with heating and cooling but the issues are bizarre. There is a screen slide so that one can have the window open. This means, however, that there are 3 distinct panels in each window that can go up and down and slide past one another. In four season climates there is a lot of moisture, dust, plant debris etc. that can get in the slide channels that need clean-out regularly. Also, if you are crazy like me, you want sparking clean windows which means every window has 4 sides to clean; inside and outside the main and inside and outside the storm. I have 25 windows in a 2-story house and I hate those 100 panels every window cleaning day. It is getting where the neighbors are growing concerned seeing me out on the roof washing windows; they don’t want to see a geriatric tumble down, I guess.
The tapestry panel is gorgeous.
Hi Celestial,
I imagine they are at least 5k-10k a piece, installed. It’s not happening.
Window Woman of New England. Not “widow woman.”
Thanks Marybeth. I will look her up.
Hi Laurel,
This window situation is the worst. I can’t imagine not being able to open your window nice & wide to let in a Spring breeze. I guess that’s a trade off you have to endure to live in your beautiful home.
I’m so happy you got to spend some time with your son. Visits with our children are the best.
Hopefully, by the time we hear from you again, your back will be all better.
Hi Mary,
Well, there are screens, too. Or at least a screen on the egress window. While it’s the law, I have three other ways to exit my apartment. If the only way out is through the living room window, that means that the entire building is fully ablaze. Otherwise, I have easy access to the outside via the door to the garden.
Hello Laurel, In your enter-through-the-window scenarios, you forgot one: glass cutters. Four quick cuts with the wheel, a few taps with the ball-shaped end, and you’re in. After you mentioned their soundproofing effects, I would seriously investigate the storm windows; some may be available more reasonably. Perhaps for now you could put up one of those signs that says Premises Patrolled by Dozens of Guard Tarantulas.
Please take care of your back!
–Jim
Hi Jim,
I think they’re double-pane, so not quick. But I don’t know anything for sure. It’s very risky for a burglar to remove glass. Usually, they look for unlocked doors– an easy target.
Hello Marybeth Robb, “The Widow Woman of New England” sounds like one of those women who marries people, takes out insurance policies, and suddenly their spouses’ coffee tastes funny.
Seriously, I am sure this is a typo, and I thoroughly approve of Ms. Hardy’s services and philosophy. So often beautiful old buildings are marred with inappropriate replacement windows, when the original sashes and panes could have been saved. I am all for working with original materials whenever possible. –Jim
Laurel
The room is gorgeous…
You probably hate anything piecemeal but here goes…
what about doing one storm window this year and the next window when you can…
Love the tapestry!
Glad you’re feeling better and got to spend time with Cale…
The Widow Woman of New England, Alison Hardy.. Here’s her number: +1 978 532 2070. Alison is one of the nation’s leaders on the repair and restoration of original wood windows. If you decide to talk with her, please mention my name and send her my regards.
The roadblocks to making your home even more beautiful are endless. The window film is a great idea. It sounds like you have a good plan, so it will all come together and then you can just gaze at your gorgeous tapestry and panels all day. Glad you had a nice walk with your son. It’s like chicken soup for the heart!
I hope you feel better soon ! Your home looks great! Good luck with your windows and numerous other things you’ve got going on. I hope you can take it easy soon…