Curb alert, old double doors


Two heavy old 4-panel doors marked “free”, with original doorknobs and mortise locks. Good guesstimate of dimensions: 102x27x2 (measured by handspan, no tape measure). Seen approx. 5pm in Park Slope on 7th St. between 7th & 8th Aves. (very close to 7th, house next door to Purity Diner). No idea what wood, multiple coats of paint.

Categories: Doors
By vinca | 06/22/2010 5:40 PM | Comment

Window restoration, replacement


Does anyone have experience (good or bad) with fabrication and installation of windows from any of the following companies? Or recommendations for other companies specializing in this work in a historic district?:
Honeoye Falls Millwork
Historical Windows
Landmark Restoration Services, Inc.
We need to remedy a heat loss problem on our parlor floor and extension. We’ve already adjusted radiator steam heat, and weatherproofed to the greatest extent possible (short of a build-out to add insulation). Our parlor floor windows need repair, restoration or replacement regardless…some immediately, some in the long run. Any leads, recommendations, or cautions based on personal experience much appreciated.

Categories: Windows
By vinca | 06/30/2009 12:57 PM | Comment

Furniture refinishing question


I’d be grateful for input re: cleaning/restoring wood furniture, along the lines of Bob Marvin’s response to be2bk’s thread about Style of Chair. I’ve inherited several pieces of furniture, nearly all with “condition issues,” running the gamut of worn and scratched surfaces, bubbling veneers, and many, many layers of dust from years of storage. Regardless of damage, the furniture has sentimental value to me. My primary aim is to clean these items, rather than restore them to perfection (which I’d leave to a pro, if I ever went that route). In response to be2bk’s post, Bob Marvin wrote: “The discolored feet (and the finish in general) can be made to look much better in minutes with Old English furniture polish, Howard-Restor-A-Finish, Scott’s Liquid Gold, or a similar product. I especially like the Howard stuff, which Pintchik carries.” I’ve also gotten recommendations to first damp wash with Dawn, followed by naptha or mineral spirits. I’ve been warned off using Murphy’s oil soap. Any other suggestions or cautions re: cleaning and restoring the furniture’s finish would be much appreciated.

Categories: Woodwork
By vinca | 03/23/2009 10:06 AM | Comment

FYI re: DOB, new fines


Just had an unexpected, unscheduled visit to our jobsite by a DOB inspector (all permits in order, all engineer’s drawings on-site). FYI: a new, 3-month-old rule—$1200 fine if jobsite does not have a “No Smoking” sign posted.

Categories: Building Code
By vinca | 02/05/2009 4:41 PM | Comment