Reviving a Barrington Beach Home with New Wood Windows

A professional couple with a young daughter was in search of a waterfront home close to their workplace in Bristol County, Rhode Island. They discovered a neglected 1925 waterfront home on Barrington Beach that required a complete renovation, including the replacement of its historic wood windows.

The beach house had been neglected for many years, necessitating a comprehensive makeover. The home's proximity to the water and open exposure presented unique challenges that required special considerations when selecting windows and doors.

Brewster Thornton Architects was commissioned to redesign the home with a modern, open floor plan, an attached garage and a master suite. To take advantage of the stunning views of Narragansett Bay from every room, the architects specified Pella® Reserve™ — Traditional double-hung windows and sliding patio doors.

These replacement wood windows offer a classic design that complements the existing style and architecture while providing superior energy efficiency and durability. They feature a timeless aesthetic, with intricate details and craftsmanship that enhance the home's overall appearance. The double-hung design allows for easy ventilation and cleaning, making them a practical choice for a waterfront property.

In addition to the double-hung windows, the architects selected Pella® Reserve™ sliding patio doors to create a seamless connection between the interior living spaces and the outdoor areas, maximizing the breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. These sliding patio doors feature large glass panels that allow an abundance of natural light to flood the home, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.

As a result of the home's waterfront location and direct exposure to the elements, the architects at Brewster Thornton opted for Pella Reserve windows with impact-resistant glass. These specialized windows are designed to withstand the harsh conditions and potential hazards that waterfront properties often face, providing enhanced protection against severe weather events and airborne debris.

Impact-resistant windows are constructed with reinforced frames and laminated glass, which consists of two or more panes of glass bonded together with a strong interlayer. In the event of an impact, the glass may crack or shatter, but the interlayer holds the pieces together, maintaining the window's structural integrity and preventing glass shards from entering the home. This feature is particularly crucial in coastal areas prone to strong winds and flying debris during storms or hurricanes.

In addition to their impact-resistant properties, these replacement windows also offer superior energy efficiency, noise reduction and UV protection. The durable exterior finish on these windows is designed to withstand the salt air and moisture common in coastal environments, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance.

The builder, Andy Tiplady, recognizes the critical importance of protecting waterfront homes from potential water damage. To ensure the longevity and integrity of the windows in this Barrington Beach house renovation, Tiplady installed custom copper pans on all the waterfront windows.

Copper pans are a time-tested solution for waterproofing windows in coastal environments. These custom-fitted pans are designed to sit beneath the windows, capturing and directing any water that may penetrate the window frames away from the home's interior. The use of copper is particularly advantageous due to its durability, resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions common in waterfront locations.

The successful renovation has transformed the once-neglected beach house into a comfortable home for this young family, showcasing the importance of selecting the right materials and collaborating with experienced professionals to overcome the distinct challenges of waterfront properties.