Updating Landmark Windows for Soundproofing

Apartments and condos face many hurdles when updating old buildings, especially those with landmark windows. Project managers and building owners want to keep intact what makes these buildings inherently beautiful—mouldings, fixtures, wavy glass & old-growth wood frames. At the same time, codes must be met, and modern efficiencies save money and bring convenience to tenants.

Joseph Casillo faced these issues and more updating his landmark building. Several floors of this apartment building included landmark windows that were over 100 years old. These old windows let in drafts and grime on the best days, winter storms and NYC city noise on the worst days. Tenant comfort was a big concern for Casillo, and because he was converting these units into condos, property value wasn’t far behind. But due to NYC regulation, these old windows could not be replaced.

Casillo talked with 3 or 4 different vendors who provide large storm windows, but couldn’t find what was needed. When he spoke with Alma’s Interior Solutions, he finally found what he was looking for. Working with Indow® inserts expert Alma Bernan, Casillo was able to introduce a mullion (bar separating panes of glass) exactly along the window sash line so that none of the landmark window was obscured.

A little about landmark windows and New York. New York, through its Landmarks Preservation Commission, helps maintain a consistent appearance of historic buildings through a series of regulations. It’s a noble cause—how do we build a visual history if we keep tearing it down—but one that comes with a lot of red tape.