Historic Apartment Window Replacement Project Updates Waterfront Multi-Family Building

Located along West Water Street in downtown Sandusky, this adaptive reuse apartment property combines historic limestone masonry with updated residential interiors. The renovation team wanted replacement windows that would maintain the proportions and detailing of the original openings while improving energy efficiency and long-term weather resistance for the multi-family property. 

Pella Cleveland’s Commercial Team partnered with H2 Property Holdings and Payto Architects to specify historically influenced replacement windows that aligned with the building’s industrial-era architecture. The finished installation preserved the visual rhythm of the original façade while introducing updated insulating glass systems and more durable window construction.

The project utilized both Pella Reserve Traditional and Monumental double-hung windows throughout much of the building. The replacement assemblies feature historically accurate putty-glazed simulated divided-lite muntins designed to replicate the appearance of the original wood windows while supporting modern performance requirements. 

Tall, vertically proportioned openings throughout the property required custom-sized window configurations that aligned with the narrow masonry bays and existing stone lintels. The replacement units incorporated traditional ogee sash profiles, Integral Light Technology® grilles and spoon-style locking hardware to maintain historically appropriate detailing across the façade. 

The windows were finished in Brick Red EnduraClad® aluminum cladding to coordinate with the surrounding masonry palette and preserve the building’s original visual character. Bright white painted pine interiors helped modernize the apartment interiors while maintaining the warmth associated with traditional wood window construction.

Because the building now functions as a residential apartment property, improving occupant comfort and reducing long-term maintenance demands were important parts of the window selection process. 

The installed windows incorporated SunDefense™ Low-E insulating glass with argon gas fills to help reduce solar heat gain and improve thermal performance throughout the building. Several assemblies achieved Performance Class CW and PG50 ratings while still maintaining historically influenced detailing and simulated divided-lite appearances. 

The project also incorporated factory-applied wrapping details, frame expanders and custom installation accessories designed to improve integration within the existing masonry openings. Those details helped accommodate varying wall depths and existing structural conditions commonly found in historic masonry buildings. 

Integrated InView™ half screens and sash lift hardware provided updated residential functionality without significantly changing the traditional appearance of the windows.

Historic adaptive reuse projects often involve inconsistencies in wall thickness, rough openings and existing structural conditions that require more coordination than standard replacement installations. This project included commercial installation services and multiple accessory components to accommodate the varying masonry conditions throughout the building. 

The completed renovation demonstrates how historically styled replacement windows can support modern multi-family redevelopment without sacrificing architectural character. By combining historically accurate grille detailing with updated glazing systems and durable aluminum-clad construction, the project team preserved the identity of the original structure while supporting long-term residential performance.