Commercial Window Replacement Improves Long-Term Performance at Crest Avenue Apartments

Crest Avenue Apartments in Charleroi, Pennsylvania underwent a large-scale commercial window replacement project as part of a broader building modernization effort focused on long-term durability and energy performance. Originally constructed as an elementary school before being converted into senior housing in the mid-1990s, the three-story masonry structure required replacement windows that could integrate with existing openings while supporting the operational needs of a multi-family senior living facility. 

The project included the replacement of nearly 300 windows throughout the property using custom-sized Pella® Lifestyle Series double-hung windows. The specified system helped improve thermal performance, occupant comfort and long-term reliability while maintaining consistency across the building façade.

Because the structure was originally designed as an institutional school building, the project involved a wide range of existing masonry opening sizes and configurations. Multiple custom-sized double-hung window assemblies were specified throughout the building, including varied widths, heights and mulled configurations designed to align with the original façade layout. 

The project incorporated factory-mulled double-hung assemblies across several opening conditions to maintain consistent sightlines and proportional alignment throughout the building exterior. Maintaining this consistency was especially important given the repetitive window pattern across the three-story brick façade. 

The replacement scope also required coordination across multiple unit types and dimensions to ensure the new windows integrated cleanly into the existing structure without disrupting the building envelope or exterior appearance.

The specified window package utilized clad wood construction with Pella® EnduraClad® aluminum exteriors in Fossil to provide long-term weather resistance and reduced maintenance requirements. 

For commercial and multi-family properties, minimizing future maintenance demands is often a critical specification consideration. The clad exterior system helps protect the wood frame while maintaining a traditional appearance appropriate for the building’s architecture. 

Interior finishes included Golden Oak stained pine to coordinate with the building interiors and provide a finished appearance throughout resident spaces.

The windows were specified with Advanced Low-E insulating glass with argon gas fills to help improve thermal efficiency and indoor comfort throughout the building. 

Performance specifications across the units included U-Factor ratings of 0.30 along with Performance Grade ratings up to PG50 in several configurations. These ratings supported the project’s goals for improved energy efficiency, structural performance and long-term operational durability. 

For senior housing environments, improving thermal consistency throughout resident units can help support occupant comfort while reducing strain on HVAC systems over time.

With nearly 300 windows replaced throughout the property, the Crest Avenue Apartments renovation reflects the scale and coordination often required in occupied commercial and multi-family projects. Consistency across window configurations, finishes and performance specifications helped create a unified system capable of supporting the building’s long-term operational needs. 

By combining custom sizing, clad wood durability and high-performance insulating glass, the replacement project modernized the building envelope while maintaining the architectural character of the former school structure.

Commercial window replacement projects often require balancing performance targets, long-term maintenance considerations and architectural compatibility within existing structures. At Crest Avenue Apartments, the final specification addressed all three priorities through a coordinated window system designed specifically for the needs of an occupied senior housing facility. 

For contractors, architects and facility managers working on institutional conversions, multi-family renovations or senior housing upgrades, the project demonstrates how custom-sized commercial window systems can improve building performance while integrating with existing masonry construction.