Windows and Skylights

This is a nice collection of articles printed in Fine Homebuilding. Most of the articles are 10+ years old at the time of this review. Because they are articles that address specific issues by a builder/craftsman/contractor they do not present a comprehensive approach to any window issue, nor do they present a survey of the field. Nonetheless, if you are looking for some practical advice there is much to be found here.

I've been searching high and low for resources on making your own windows. More specifically OLD window sash. There's literally a section where the author reproduces a 200 year old window sash. Windows that old typically use plank cases, but the author just built the sash which is fine for what I needed to see. There are casement windows, arched windows and some other aspects to window construction that I haven't seen anywhere! There are a lot of books on restoring windows, and installing windows. Which are helpful. If you're do inclined you could take apart an old window and copy it. But, I first like to get some info if I can that may explain certain things that are unique to window contruction so I can learn from someone elses experience. Now, unless you work for a sash company you're left with researching and perhaps you could take lots of pictures at Old Sturbridge village. I'm looking at the sash router bit sets with a coping bit to construct mortise and tenon window. The problem is that they're designed to build newer windows that are 1 3/8" thick. An old window might be 1" thick. Plus, the muntins are narrow, there's no parting bead and the profile is wrong. My windows use a GREEK ogee profile, all router bits use a Roman ogee. There's a distinct difference. You could have a sash company mill some stock or perhaps a lumber yard. I'm still stuck on trying to do it myself. The author describes a way to grind your own router bits profiles using steel blank. I was going to go as far as making my own wooden planes or have some bits custom made. I found this book by accident. The title doesn't give a good enough description as to what exactly this book is about. I almost past it buy as another mere installation of window book. It wasn't until I read the previous post that I realized this was just what I needed!