Restoring a Queen Anne Landmark
As specialists in historic window restoration, Valley Woodworks recently completed a large project for the James O. Wilson home in the Corvallis Historic District. We manufactured and installed period-accurate double-hung and storm windows built entirely from scratch. These custom replicas ensure this Queen Anne landmark functions exactly as it did in 1891, combining historical accuracy with modern durability.
PEELING BACK THE DECADES
Many layers of paint had been applied over the years to the exterior side of the sash.
PRECISION-BUILT REPLICAS
Decades of sun exposure had severely degraded the interior sills and sash, leading to significant loss of the wood's soft grain. Because the structural integrity was compromised beyond the point of a lasting repair, we decided to handcraft exact replicas to ensure the home's long-term preservation.
STEP 1 IN THE PROCESS
Our preservation process begins with the careful extraction of the original units. Once in our shop, we delicately salvage the historic glass from the failing sash, ensuring these 19th-century panes are ready for seamless re-installation into our newly handcrafted frames.
RESTORING THE DETAILS
To maintain the 1891 aesthetic of the J.O. Wilson home, we meticulously salvaged the original historic window hardware. These authentic brass and steel components were carefully removed from the failing sash to be refurbished and integrated into our newly built double-hung windows. You can appreciate the 'before' state of these period pieces prior to our restoration process, as well as the completely cleaned hardware.
FIFTEEN-LITE WINDOW FABRICATION
We constructed new fifteen-lite sash out of old growth fir. It was impressive to see lots of frames stacked neatly together.
The interior of the sash was stained to match the existing wood interior of the historic home.
COMPLETED HISTORIC TRANSFORMATION
This Queen Anne Style restoration window project is now complete with beautiful, fully-operational double-hung windows.
BEYOND WINDOW RESTORATIONS
Valley Woodworks also installed a historically accurate screen door for the customer.
The restoration of the J.O. Wilson home was more than just a restoration project; it was an investment in the architectural fabric of Corvallis. By combining salvaged 19th-century glass and original hardware with the unmatched durability of new old-growth fir, we’ve ensured these windows will protect this Queen Anne landmark for another century.
At Valley Woodworks, we believe that historic homes deserve more than just a 'quick fix'—they deserve a legacy. We are honored to have played a part in returning this 1891 masterpiece to its original, fully-functional glory.
To learn more about this treasured local landmark, please visit the J.O. Wilson House in Corvallis here.
Request A Consultation
Contact Valley Woodworks today so that we can schedule an appointment to help with your Storm and Screen Windows.