Huntsville commission approves most window replacements at 1002 Pratt Avenue with requirement to rebuild front three

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Huntsville Historic Preservation Commission on Wednesday approved replacing the majority of windows at 1002 Pratt Avenue while directing that the three front ganged windows be rebuilt using salvaged historic components where possible.

The decision came after city staff presented a window-by-window assessment that documented wood rot, inoperable sashes and missing trim across 19 windows at the contributing bungalow in the 5 Points historic district. The applicant requested Anderson 400 series aluminum-clad wood double-hung windows to match the size and configuration of the existing openings.

The commission’s preservation planner, Katie Stamps, said staff’s review found evidence of wood rot, broken elements and windows that would be difficult to repair and recommended replacement on many elevations but urged retention of character-defining historic windows where feasible.

Applicant Donna Whitlock, the homeowner, told the commission she uncovered historical details about the house that helped explain unusual window and wall conditions. “One of the previous owners spoke with him and asked is that true? And he said, yeah. … the car had ran up under it and actually caught on fire,” Whitlock said, describing an event she said neighbors recounted that may explain an atypical rear window condition.

Contractor Freddie Watson of Ironman Roofing answered technical questions about glass and period glazing when commissioners asked whether “wavy” glass would indicate original windows. “Typically, the wavy glass would be very early, like, century houses,” Watson said, noting that the homeowner’s windows likely date to later renovations.

A commissioner proposed—and the motion carried—that the commission grant approval to replace windows on all secondary elevations, with replacements to be approved by staff to match existing historic windows, while directing that the primary front three ganged windows be rebuilt using any viable salvaged jams and sashes removed from other openings of the same size. The motion also included a condition that the applicant confirm window exterior trim details (1-by-4 application) with the manufacturer before ordering.

The commission’s action combined both repair/retention objectives and material realities documented in the assessment: most windows will be replaced with aluminum-clad wood units approved by staff; the most-visible group of three on the principal elevation will be reconstructed from original components where feasible to preserve the front appearance.

The commission instructed staff to require the applicant obtain and provide manufacturer illustrations showing the proposed units can be fitted with the specified exterior 1-by-4 trim and to coordinate final details with staff before ordering. The chair closed the item noting the motion carried.

The commission indicated a certificate of appropriateness documenting the approved scope and conditions will follow in writing.