Historic District Window Replacement in NYC
NYC has extensive landmark and historic districts — Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Fort Greene, portions of Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. If your building is in one of these districts, window replacement requires navigating the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) approval process.
The LPC Process
1. LPC prefers repair over replacement. If replacement is approved, new windows must exactly match the originals in material, details, profile, and hardware.
2. A Permit for Minor Work (PMW) is required even for like-for-like replacements in many cases.
3. LPC review takes a minimum of 30 days, often longer for complex projects.
4. Contact LPC at 212-669-7817 or visit their office to discuss your project before ordering.
What LPC Looks For
- •Profile accuracy: New windows must match the depth, width, and detailing of original windows
- •Material compatibility: Wood is generally preferred; aluminum-clad wood may be accepted if the exterior profile matches
- •Hardware style: Must match or closely replicate original hardware
- •Glass pattern: Divided lite patterns must match existing
Pella Products for Historic Buildings
Pella's Architect Series and Reserve Series are the best options for landmarked buildings:
- •Real wood construction with historically accurate profiles
- •Aluminum-clad exterior available (Enduraclad finish for durability)
- •Customizable muntins, hardware, and detailing
- •Can be spec'd to match virtually any original window style
Working with Architects
We recommend working with an LPC-experienced architect who can prepare your application. Pella provides detailed product drawings and specifications that architects can incorporate into LPC submissions.
Contact Ravi at (516) 604-5749 to discuss your historic district project. We'll connect you with architects who specialize in this work.