hhitchc's Profile
Author's Posts
March 27, 2009
To Houses Coming Down - Salvage
Just got an email from Demolition Depot about two houses that are coming down. DD is selling everything including the kitchen sink. Thought you might like to see too. They said this is just a sample and to email if you are looking for anything in particular.
http://www.demolitiondepot.com/photo/blast/bx_blast/index.html
http://www.demolitiondepot.com/photo/blast/ct_blast/index.html
March 18, 2009
Old drafty mail slot
I have recently and painstakingly restored my 120 year old brownstone door. I added new door hardware but would like to keep the old mail slot. The problems is that it is VERY drafty around the edges and of course the slot is not sealed. Should I keep the charismatic old mail slot and weather proof it? Has anyone does this? Would a thick rubber flap on the inside work? Or should I instal a new mail slot, which will probably entail cutting a new hole in the door I just spent a bundle on maintaining?
November 18, 2008
Security and the Front Door
Opinions Please...
I am renovating a single family townhouse and am installing the front door/security system and would like some advice.
Here are the details:
We are going to have the whole house alarm through an alarm company.
We have two front doors, exterior and interior (Door with window).
I want to do a buzzer on both front doors that way if the UPS guy comes and has a drop off I can buzz him in one door and he can leave it there. The second door will remain locked.
I thought this would be convenient if I am on the fourth floor with the baby, so I don't have to walk down four flights. Also, I like that I don't have to answer the door at all. The guy can leave the package, close the door, and I don't have to deal with him.
The central alarm system will have cameras so I can tune into the TV and see when the guy leaves.
One opinion was that this is not as safe as two dead bolts. I think its safer to not have to answer the door at all.
Let me know what you think.
October 28, 2008
Restored Antique Door Hardware
I am looking for two antique entry door sets for antique doors. I love the old doors of our brownstone but the knobs were changed to cheap long ago.
I would like restored complete sets. Any idea of sellers? Thanks
May 5, 2008
Replacing Stair Treads
The old wood stairs in my brownstone are in solid shape but are made of carpet grade wood. Because I would like to have nice wood treads without carpet the contractor suggested refacing (?) the treads and risers with upgraded wood instead of replacing the risers and treads. I think it works like this
http://www.woodsthebest.com/Stairs/wood-stairs-treads.htm
Does anyone have experience with this and can you share the up and downsides of refacing instead of replacing? (pun intended)
Do the stairs squeak?
Is the height difference a problem?
What kind of wood did you use.
Thanks!
April 19, 2008
Chair caning
Does anyone have a recommendation/estimate for chair caning? If you have had a chair repaired, how much was it per hole? I have an estimate for 2.15 a hole which makes my repair more than 200.00 a chair. YIKES!
Thanks.
April 18, 2008
Jane's Carousel/ Idora Park's Carousel
Does anyone know if this carousel is open to the public yet? It is supposed to be in Dumbo. It was very special to my father growing up and I would love to surprise him by showing it to him next weekend.
April 3, 2008
Where can I find these?
Does anyone know where I can find stone pieces like these? They are sometimes called planters, stone troughs, garden sinks. I am looking for antiques I can look at in person but if you have someone online in the US, I would look there too. Thanks.
February 15, 2008
Seller's Question
I am selling my apartment soon. I have beautiful sconces and pendant lighting from France and Italy that I had installed in my apt. Is it ok to show my apartment with the lighting and then take it when I leave? Do buyers assume light fixtures are included/not included? Should the real estate agent tell perspective buyers that it is not included? Does that effect the selling price?
January 24, 2008
what is this?
Can anyone tell me about this? This is a light fixture that is representative of most of the sconces in my house. It has an outlet in the top part.
Was the outlet added? What era is this multiple personality fixture from? What is the hole in the middle, is that a gas line? A cable hook up? (I kid). Seriously though, a lot of my old fixtures have outlets in them and I am totally perplexed. I want to keep the fixture but the outlet is so ugly.
Can it be capped or hidden? Thought?
Thank you kindly.
Author's Comments
One is in the Bronx and one is in Conn. I think DD makes the houses accessible to salvage buyers. You should call and ask them.
Posted by: hhitchc at March 27, 2009 3:31 PM in response to To Houses Coming Down - Salvage
Two houses, not to houses. Excuse me. :)
Posted by: hhitchc at March 27, 2009 3:20 PM in response to To Houses Coming Down - Salvage
Shutters are very expensive to make from scratch and just as expensive to restore and repair. 3g is probably a mid range price for custom shutters.
Alternatively, you can often do a roman shade or a shade that can be stacked at the bottom and pulled up as a less expensive alternative that would still let light in.
It is worth it to check out demo depot or OGT to see if they have a shutter set that will work with your window. Ebay has a bunch also. I find lately that demo depot has much much better customer service than OGT.
I am in the process of stripping and restoring a set 120 year old set with our contractor, its a painfully expensive process.
Posted by: hhitchc at March 25, 2009 1:00 PM in response to Shutters Anyone?
I could not find this type of door when I needed one for my soho loft. Mine cost 3g to build from scratch. I would post it on Craig's list too because Manhattaites might be more interested in this type of door than Brooklynites.
Maybe dont post a price or call it DUMBO history and you may get some more bites because these are hard to come by. :)
Posted by: hhitchc at March 24, 2009 10:58 AM in response to Own a piece of DUMBO History
We stripped the intricate woodwork and revarnished the door and casing, fixed the beveled glass lights, stripped the hinges, weather stripped, the whole nine yards.... etc. I just wanted to keep as much as possible. The door knob was not original so we scrapped it and used a knob with a large escutcheon plate to cover 6 holes where dead bolts were used throughout the years. Its super handsome now, just the mail slot is a wind tunnel.
The mailman does use it.
I guess I could do a new flap on the inside which could be more snug.
Posted by: hhitchc at March 18, 2009 4:55 PM in response to Old drafty mail slot
Bamboo is pretty cheap but looks cheap, I think.
I think Ikea laminate floor is 1$ a foot.
This is another option:
http://www.themarmoleumstore.com/Default.aspx?MenuId=29
I have also seen plywood laid nicely with poly that looks modern and sleek. http://www.abostonloft.com/chelsea_dudley115/images/lr2_470.jpg
I have seen it done better too, you just have to search.
You could also pull up what you have and do a poured concrete floor. You can color it too to make it cool. Google that look and you will find it in magazines and design books.
Posted by: hhitchc at March 12, 2009 9:57 PM in response to cheap green flooring advice
We did a wall of windows using this company:
http://www.crittall-windows.co.uk/content/3/75/home-owners.html
Posted by: hhitchc at March 2, 2009 11:19 PM in response to Sourcing black windows
I had five fireplaces that were nonworking to deal with. We got rid of one because of structural issues and to make a kitchen where a dining room was.
We made one wood burning, two gas, and left one non working.
The cost was 8-9k for getting the nonworking ones to function so we thought long and hard about which ones were the most important and which ones we would actually use etc. Remember that you will also need a mantel, to break down and rebuild the wall and ceiling for new flue plus painting, fire rated stone, etc. There are a lot of "other" expenses.
Because new flues had to be run and a new fan was installed for each one, it did not matter if there were working ones below or above.
Its a huge investment but you can just do a few or one and make the others look nice.
Posted by: hhitchc at March 2, 2009 12:41 PM in response to Opening up a fireplace
I got the same kind of answers when I asked about security locks. The only person who was helpful was Bklyn Fire Alarm Guy.
I think your placement looks fine. I used Supreme Security for my cameras and locks. They are great.
Posted by: hhitchc at February 26, 2009 1:15 PM in response to where to put security cams
Homey,
The system we are using works with telephone and the TV. THere are no intercom units on walls. Buzzer rings and I can use the phone to buzz them in. I can also turn on the TV to tune into the security camera. It will always be on so I can tune in at any time. This is a standard system. Another option was to buy one that tunes in online. I am not buying this but they sell these on amazon. This is often called a pet cam or granny cam. I think that is what the pup cam is. http://www.ustream.tv/channel/shiba-inu-puppy-cam
SJ,
I don't know one person who owns their house who does not have an alarm system. I would not consider living in my new hood without one. My husband was mugged and our car was broken into numerous times in this UWS neighborhood. I have had my own personal experiences that have led us to this conclusion. I agree with Fire Alarm guy that the card swipe sounds convenient and allows for easy open. I am looking into it.
Posted by: hhitchc at November 19, 2008 12:32 PM in response to Security and the Front Door
Thanks alarm guy and OP. I think I am on the right track. Will ask more questions and just do the first door.
Posted by: hhitchc at November 18, 2008 10:16 PM in response to Security and the Front Door
The question is does anyone have a double buzzer system in a single family townhouse and is it secure and does it work well.
Beavis and Butthead can make as many comments as they like. I'm asking about security systems. If you don't have an opinion about a buzzer system than move along.
Posted by: hhitchc at November 18, 2008 2:39 PM in response to Security and the Front Door
We are using contractors to install the stuff and Supreme Security
Yes, I do get a lot of packages for my work. Thanks Dave.
I am not afraid of the UPS man. Just like the connivence and safety of not having to open to door every time the postman has a large load of mail or a tube with drawings comes.
Posted by: hhitchc at November 18, 2008 2:18 PM in response to Security and the Front Door
Thanks so much. These are really helpful. I have been down the DD and OGT track and really wanted a complete working set, ready to install.
THanks!
Posted by: hhitchc at October 29, 2008 10:24 AM in response to Restored Antique Door Hardware
Who wrote this entry?
Idora Park, where this carousel came from closed in the 80's. It was also purchased in the 80's. The people who come to see the carousel are a variety of ages. I am from Ohio and saw the beautiful ride last week. I am 30. This entry seems snide in some way. Maybe its just me.
This ride is historically significant to people from this area. Its nice that its in Brooklyn. Hope its appreciated as much here as it is by the 100 Ohioians (and more) traveling 7 hours to see it from a distance.
Posted by: hhitchc at October 21, 2008 9:19 PM in response to Closing Bell: Reuniting with Jane's Carousel
OK I will do that. Thanks!
Posted by: hhitchc at April 18, 2008 2:47 PM in response to Jane's Carousel/ Idora Park's Carousel
Yeah, I was hoping to make on into a powder room sink. But I would like a rough, weathered one.
United Housewrecking is a good site but the ones there are more decorative. Thanks for the tip though.
Posted by: hhitchc at April 3, 2008 4:58 PM in response to Where can I find these?
I love that ornate wall piece, I think I might steal that idea. (wink)
I second the wall paper idea. There are so many gorgeous wallpaper choices these days. Or if you are using this as a mud room, three nice antique hooks could hang there to catch a coat or hat or two.
I love love love the push button with brass plate. I have a box of them waiting to go in.
Always love your pics.
Posted by: hhitchc at February 28, 2008 3:36 PM in response to Gussying up the Vestibule
Got it. Thanks. My thoughts were that the house would show much better with the lights and that replacing drop lighting for 13 foot ceilings and 10 sconces would be costly.
This gives me something to think about.
Posted by: hhitchc at February 16, 2008 7:19 PM in response to Seller's Question
Thanks for posting this. Getting the fireplaces up and running is a huge question mark in my reno: how much will it cost, how messy will it be, gas or wood, and now I realize that mine are likely coal too. Thanks for the post, and the link to the photos. Very informative. I actually appreciated the link to the environmental things as well. Doubly informative.
Sometimes this blog hits the right spot. Ahhhh...
:)
Posted by: hhitchc at February 15, 2008 10:00 PM in response to Throw a log on the fire: two fireplaces renovated
Perhaps Manhattan is different. I am not sure. I live on a landmark block. The neighbors two houses up tried to do this on the DL and got totally busted. The back of their house is a total mess and they ticked of the DoB and can't get any work approved, even to change it back. That was like a year ago. The framing is up and ivy is growing through it. Terrible.
I am doing a glass wall in the back of mine (its a 16' wide and 120 years old). You need an architect and a structural engineer and you need to file. I can't give you a price because its all melded together with all the other work that is being done with the house. However, the glass and steel alone is 15,000.00.
It is pricey but it changes the light and flow of the floor and gives you more "space".
Good Luck.
Posted by: hhitchc at February 6, 2008 1:36 PM in response to blowing out rear wall in historic district.
This is an encyclopedia of info, and at the very least you can email them and ask questions.
http://www.antiqueappliances.com/
(I am a little (a lot) obsessed with this site.)
Posted by: hhitchc at January 30, 2008 11:27 PM in response to Any one know anything about antique stoves?
Oh this is such a great post. I am debating about cobble stone vs. salvaged blue stone right now. The pics are so helpful. What a great back yard you are going to have.
One question, did you pipe for a gas grill? And if so where is it going?
Posted by: hhitchc at January 30, 2008 11:55 AM in response to On the flip side
I did not write that. I swear. :)
Posted by: hhitchc at January 26, 2008 4:44 PM in response to Closet for sale
I would like to fix them up if I can. I will look into the lamp doctor. I was curious to read the feed back and if anyone had these in their home. Thanks
Posted by: hhitchc at January 25, 2008 7:51 PM in response to what is this?
You know, its an interesting thing buying an old house and renovating it. When looking for a little dream home I saw many houses that were cheaper but gutted and I passed. I looked for an old house with original details (for three years!) and I bought one with LOTS of details. I paid for the old details.
Now that that I have begun to work on it I realize there are some things I absolutely love and want to restore... the detailed floors, the pantry, the fireplaces, the plaster, some lighting. I actually excavated subway tiles out of a bathroom to use again in a different bathroom. "I WANT TO KEEP IT ALL!!!" I said to everyone, until their ears were sore.
Then I started to give on a few things. Like this closet. It is totally amazing but its not a useful closet by today's standards. The identical one I saw in a similar house was so beautiful but the owner had to build another closet for her hanging clothes (to do this she ripped out the study and all its original details, which I am keeping.)
All in all its a crazy experience working on an old house. When I heard what it was going to cost to restore the wood work, the paneling, the stairs, the roof, the mechanicals, the floors, the fireplaces, etc... oh my!
My fantasy is that someone will make it their project and restore and use it, like in the good ole days. :)
Posted by: hhitchc at January 25, 2008 6:18 PM in response to Closet for sale
I hate to post on my own but I forgot to mention that it could be used by the new owner as pantry or wet sink/built in, in a living room, etc.
Posted by: hhitchc at January 24, 2008 2:21 PM in response to Closet for sale
And here are some pics from AT if anyone else was interested. As far as dust and scratches, I think for a while I noticed every mark, but after a month or so the finish got a little patina to it and scratching and dust was not noticeable.
Posted by: hhitchc at January 4, 2008 11:04 AM in response to What color floor stain did you use?
Mrs. Limestone, just send me your email and Ill send you some pics. hhitchc@nyc.rr.com
Posted by: hhitchc at January 4, 2008 10:52 AM in response to What color floor stain did you use?
This is a great question. I think your options are totally open to whatever you like. I currently have my floors stained very dark (I think the name was dark walnut and I did two light coats so I could still see the grain.) Its an idea I got from a French country magazine.
However, I have seen lighter shades that looked attractive as well. If you have any stairs or moulding or paneling to contend with I would say do not try to match, instead go a couple of tones warmer.
I think old homes take an eclectic variation of finishes, best in warmer, natural tones.
Posted by: hhitchc at January 3, 2008 1:10 PM in response to What color floor stain did you use?
Ok. I am wondering if the idea is to hide all the running wiring along the base board level and then just come up in places where the outlet will be. One more question. Does the electrition have to remove ALL the old wiring? And a newbie question, can the new wire be tied to the old wire and pulled through, like in the instance of a light fixture? (I have seen extensive patch jobs and minimal plaster patch jobs.)
I am just trying to arm myself with suggestions so when the contractor tells me he has to rip the 110 year old plaster walls down, I can counter.
Posted by: hhitchc at December 16, 2007 12:07 AM in response to new wiring
wow. the code point is interesting because the contractor nor the architect have mentioned that. They told ME they could do it through the base boards. In addition, I have seen wiring pulled and snaked out without digging in the walls and pulling down plaster. Now I'm confused.
Posted by: hhitchc at December 15, 2007 11:44 PM in response to new wiring
Bet you did not expect that under your tree. :)
The safest way to remedy little pesky things in house pants is a combo of rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle. I think its half and half, 1:1. Just hit them a few times today and then tomorrow until they are gone. Works for all sorts of spiders, aphids, ants, etc.
Posted by: hhitchc at December 4, 2007 11:05 AM in response to Christma Tree Bugs
Responses to Author's Forum Comments
Installing a new flap on the inside was exactly what I did with my front door, and it worked pretty well this winter - the mailman was able to get the mail through without difficulty
Posted by: Brooklyn Red at March 19, 2009 6:35 PM in response to Old drafty mail slot
Something very erotic about this photo. Just saying...
Posted by: newsouthsloper at March 19, 2009 6:39 PM in response to Old drafty mail slot
Old Drafty Male Slot? Let the ccomedy begin....
Posted by: bmfesq at March 20, 2009 3:39 PM in response to Old drafty mail slot
I second the idea of using two covers, one inside and one outside. The trick is to make sure the inside one's edges fit the door slot well, without snagging cornes of the incoming mail.
Most just use gravity to stay closed; some older ones use springs. But we found one from Ives that includes a magnetic strip across the back of the bottom edge to help hold the cover closed. The model we used is probably not right for you -- too modern, and too big -- but you might be able to find something appropriate for your door with similar features: (Ives Magazine Size Letter Box Plate, Product ID: 650 & 651.) Mail carriers have no trouble opening them, the draft is minimal, and they don't flap noisily when the door is opened and closed. (They are a bit noisy when they fall shut, though.)
Posted by: rfr at March 21, 2009 12:58 PM in response to Old drafty mail slot
I find it sad that people like jcarch and mod squad and quest poster are even on this site. Isn't the point of this site to restore and reclaim the beauty of brooklyn architecture? People like these who want to destroy, cut up, tear down etc are the antithesis of what this forum is about....if you don't have anything constructive to say then keep quiet and get a life.
Posted by: papuaman at March 24, 2009 11:21 AM in response to Own a piece of DUMBO History
FWIW one of the nicest design elements at Journey, a beautiful store in DUMBO, is a similar door that has been given an attractive finish.
Posted by: Bob Marvin at March 24, 2009 6:39 PM in response to Own a piece of DUMBO History
It's called critising for sport. One day I would love to walk through one of their homes and point out everything I found ugly. The day they are as critical to their friends and family is the day I will respect them.
Posted by: Iknow at March 25, 2009 1:16 PM in response to Own a piece of DUMBO History
here is the cheaper source:
http://www.blinds.com/control/product/productID,8655?gtse=froogle8655&width=16.00&height=20.00
Posted by: bobjohn at March 25, 2009 1:29 PM in response to Shutters Anyone?
Thanks to all who gave advice. Much appreciated.
Posted by: jlo at March 25, 2009 5:10 PM in response to Shutters Anyone?
Both houses appear to be in magnificent condition. And much better than most houses posted on this site. Any idea why they're being torn down? Is this in Brooklyn? Thanks.
Posted by: mopar at March 27, 2009 3:29 PM in response to To Houses Coming Down - Salvage
The DrSofa company was recommended to me by a furniture store where I bought a couch. They do all their business with them. I am having a bench upholstered with them right now.
http://www.drsofa.com/
Posted by: hhitchc at April 1, 2009 10:49 PM in response to upholsterer recommendation