Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 06/10/2021

Home

RAMSEY TOWN HALL, Ramsey, Minnesota dal A pane is broken on one of the windows on the rear elevation. It is our understanding that the windows were replaced in 1946, but we do not have any confirmation about other replacements. We have been assuming that the windows were replaced again around 1990 because the existing windows appear to be newer since they are in decent condition. The paint has worn around the frame, which exposes the wood. If the windows were older than 1990, then there would be significant deterioration from the lack of maintenance. We found a tag in that states Marvin Windows is the manufacturer. The brick around the top of the windows is arched which means that the tops of the windows were potentially curved as well. We could not find a photograph that would confirm this, so further research would be needed. We also could not confirm what kind of glass was in the front circular window. In general, there does not seem to be any major deterioration from mold or insects. Recommendations If replacement of the windows is possible, replacements should have a curved upper sash, and the window divisions should be preserved. The following recommendations should be considered if replacement of the entire window is not possible. The sashes and other portions of window showing mold should be replaced. The window frames should be painted to match the fascia/soffit. Broken and missing glass, like on the rear elevation, should be replaced with clear glass. The window frames should be secured to the wooden structure, and caulking should be installed around the interior and exterior frame to create a seal.4 For the front circular window, the plywood should be removed, and glass should be installed. If another style/pattern of glass is found when doing more research, then replace with what is historically appropriate. The interior and exterior portions of the window should be cleaned. Harsh chemical cleaners should be avoided. Consult Marvin Windows for a proper cleaning method. Roof The existing roof has asphalt shingles, and the soffit and fascia are solid wood. The original roof has wood shingles. We could not access the roof to determine the condition, but the shingles appear to be in poor condition. Many of the shingles are not flat, meaning water is being shedding improperly. The apex of the roof appears to be split. This could be due to the walls not providing enough support to the roof, so the roof is slowing failing. It could be due to the wood shrinking over time as well. There are pieces of the soffit and fascia that have fallen off, and there are holes in the soffit on the West elevation. 4 John H. Myers. "Preservation Briefs 9: The Repair of Historic Wooden Windows," (Technical Preservation Services, NPS, 1981), https://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs/9- wooden-windows.htm. Ramsey Town Hall 9