USCG Marblehead

Project Scope

Type: Government/Coast Guard
Location: Marblehead, OH
Age of Structure: Remodel
Architects: N/A
Window Materials Used: Aluminum 4200 Sider, COR80 Fixed

Marblehead Coast Guard Station is one of the busiest search and rescue and maritime law enforcement units on the great lakes. Located on the south shore of Lake Erie in the Village of Marblehead, Ohio, the station is responsible for a 458 square mile section of Lake Erie, and houses 40 active duty members and 10 reservists year round, plus a number of civilian contractors.

The main building is three story high, and has a briefing room, armory, and a watch room, where the station staff monitor radio traffic, weather conditions, and take calls about various maritime emergencies. It's imperative that all parts of the station offer an expansive view of the lake through large windows so the team can assess the conditions in real time.

The Coast Guard contracted with Vetrina Windows in 2020 to replace all 54 windows in the main building. After assessing the scope of the project and taking into consideration all the requirements, we suggested using our 4200 sliding system for two-sash variants, and adding COR80 systems where a fixed sash is required. The project required us to design and construct custom variants, such as sliding/fixed sash combos, fixed/awning, fixed with louvres, and other unique designs to accommodate the structure and its function.

The result is a heavy-duty and long-lasting solution for a structure that demands utmost durability and longevity. It will be able to withstand high lakeshore winds, while insulating the interior from moisture and noise associated with the winter conditions normally seen in the Great Lakes region. The station personnel is completely satisfied with the updates – the new windows are easy to operate and care for, offer great security, and are in full compliance with all regulatory criteria for government buildings and military installations.