Spaarndam 2, Amsterdam | Windows, doors and frames

Replacement based on old photos and drawings

An important part of the renovation of Spaarndam 2 was the repair and replacement of the wooden windows, doors and frames. This required Verweij Houttechniek to focus on two issues, which are not easy to combine in practice. On the one hand, the new parts had to meet the current requirements of safety and wind and water tightness. On the other hand, the appearance of the renewed parts had to be as original as possible.

To make the new frames, windows and doors - more than 1,300 in all - fit properly, Verweij Houttechniek measured all the elements manually. "A century ago, work was not done with such precision," Ruud Verweij, Verweij Houttechniek board member, meanwhile, knows. "Almost every part turned out to have unique measurements. We entered these into our surveying app, which allowed us to digitally transmit the data to the work planners."

Oregon Pine with monument glass
Verweij Houttechniek has manufactured all products in Oregon Pine. The appearance of this type of wood is similar to that of pine, which used to be used for windows, doors and frames. The components were fitted with double monument glass, which was set in with putty. "Much attention was paid to the details of the past. These were maintained or brought back based on old drawings and photos. Archivolt Architects carefully guided us in this process." In this context, the first coat of paint was still applied by robots, but the second was done by brush and in such a way that the texture of the paint remained visible.

Specials
It is not the first monumental restoration for Verweij Houttechniek. It also replaced the frames, windows and doors for Het Schip. A similar project, also for Woningstichting Eigen Haard and commissioned by Vastbouw. "Verweij Houttechniek now has over 110 employees," says Verweij. "In addition, we work with a flexible shell of some 50 mechanics. This makes us one of the larger woodworkers. People quickly think that you specialize in fast, large jobs. Yet it is precisely these jobs that make our heart beat faster. Verweij Houttechniek has even set up a separate department where these 'specials' are made."