RBVa window restoration

RBVa offers full window restoration services. A window restoration restores the full function of double hung windows: both top and bottom sashes will operate. It includes modern weatherstripping, as described below. We believe that the windows are the 'eyes' of a historic home, and add immeasurably to its charm, character and history. In addition, the Commission of Architectural Review will not allow window replacements in some neighborhoods. RBVa also offers high-quality window replacement services.

First, RBVa cordons off the area in your house in which we are going to work with lead-safe techniques.

RBVa removes the sashes and takes them to our warehouse to rebuild and re-glaze. We use a specially formulated glazing that mimics the strong glazing of years past. The glass is bedded in glazing as well to achieve the tightest draft-seal possible. Whenever we can, we save the old 'wavy' glass. Clients can also request that we purchase wavy glass.

While carpenters are rebuilding the sashes, RBVa sets to work to rebuild the frames. Often there is much water damage, and frames can be racked with the settling of the house. RBVa can and will correct all of this.

The sashes are prepared to have modern silicon bulb and spring-loaded weatherstripping attached in channels on the side of the sashes, where they will be effectively hidden. All four sides of the top and bottom sashes have draft-stop barriers. Added bonus: the spring loaded weatherstripping eases in the function of the windows.

We use two sash locks to ensure the tightest seal between the upper and lower sashes. Typically we use brass-plated sash locks, but many styles and finishes are available.

If any of the sashes have original hardware, we strip this hardware of all of its paint and reinstall. The newly restored sashes are hung on chains instead of rope for strength and ease of movement.

CAR-approved storm windows are also available.

Clients can now lower their top sashes to let out heat in the summer and take advantage of the many mild weather months we have here in Virginia, as well as keep the heat and cold weather at bay.

RBVa also offers high quality replacement windows, both 'pocket' style and complete replacement.