X.P. Building Openings: Windows, Doors, Skylights

1. Standard windows and doors are defined as those maintained by GHI in original structures.

2. Installation of windows and doors not listed as acceptable (see table below), or ‘cutting in’ additional windows and doors, or relocating, blocking up or changing the size of existing windows and doors in original buildings is not permitted without prior approval of the Board of Directors, except:

• where windows and doors are lost because of the construction of a heated addition, or

• for kitchen windows in frame homes only, raising the sill to create a 3'0" high window only, in order to accommodate countertop height.

3. Windows and doors that are new or replacements require a GHI permit, and requires review and approval by GHI Technical Services prior to installation.  

4. Security bars on windows and doors are not allowed.

5. Openings for removed through-wall HVAC units shall be closed as specified in §X.K.6.e.

1. Skylights and light tubes are allowed in additions only, with approval and permit from GHI Technical Services; skylights and light tubes ar not allowed in original structures.
   1. Maintenance of any skylight or light tube is the responsibility of the member, and is a component excluded from the Addition Maintenance Program (X.L.3.c.)
   2. Any skylight/light tube product must meet or exceed the minimum criteria listed below. Members must provide product information sheet from manufacturer when submitting permit request.

       

      Minimum criteria:

      1. Curbed installation (no flush mount), flashed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions to meet rating for type and slope of roof where the skylight/light tube is to be installed.
      2. Insulated, tempered glass.
      3. Fixed pane (e.g. Non-moveable/non-opening)
      4. Energy Star rated

       

   3. Members who have skylight(s) or light tube(s) shall obtain HO-6 insurance coverage, and provide evidence of such insurance coverage prior to final inspection for new skylight/light tube installations. Members are required to continue to carry HO-6 coverage as long as the skylight/light tube is present. This requirement extends to members in units with existing skylights at the time of the replacement of the existing skylight/light tube or at the time of resale whichever comes first. 
   4. Members must sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to assume full responsibility for the labor and costs associated with maintenance & replacement of the skylight/light tube and any ancillary damage to the GHI maintained structure should the skylight/light tube fail. Maintenance and replacement responsibility conveys with the unit and new members are required to sign a new MOU at the time of settlement.
   5. Members are responsible for all additional costs associated with the skylight/light tube when the addition roof is scheduled for replacement under the GHI Addition Maintenance Program.
2. Exterior doors shall be of a simple design, with rectangular features. Doors may have recessed panels or glass panes. See figure below of acceptable doors.
   
3. The following doors are considered incompatible with the design of the original buildings and shall not be installed without prior approval by the  Board of Directors;
   • Doors with rounded features, scrolling or ornate trim
   • Doors with stained, colored, opaque, beveled, edged or otherwise decorative glass
   • Doors with diagonal muntins
   • For masonry homes only, doors with vertical muntins
4. The above requirements also apply to storm doors.