Preservation Programs

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Participants will learn to:

• Understand Rhode Island Lead Safe Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) rules
• Identify lead windows using proper lead tests
• Create safe workspaces to perform work
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Perform safe removal of lead windows for restoration
• Execute lead-safe window tactics and techniques for restoring wood windows as outlined in the forthcoming Lead Paint Adaptation and Remediation Strategies for Historic Windows 
• Understand how each tactic either safely removes or mitigates the lead hazard of the window component
• Reinstall  windows with lead hazards removed

• Participants will test windows, remove windows, and complete lead-removal practices on a historic property where wood windows are installed. For ease of teaching and participant safety, all demonstration windows have been tested free of lead paint.
• Attendees will receive a copy of the forthcoming Lead Paint Adaptation and Remediation Strategies for Historic Windows; a collaboration between the Office of Planning and Economic Development for the City of Newport, RI and the Newport Restoration Foundation in partnership with Heritage Restoration.
• Participants will receive a certificate of program completion in Lead-Based Paint Window Restoration from NRF as well as 20 hours towards a Preservation Trades Apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or professional development.
• The workshop will be held outside, regardless of weather.
• This workshop requires the wearing of PPE, including N95 masks. PPE equipment and tools will be provided.
• Ability to stand or crouch for 5-6 hours is required due to the physical requirements of the workshop.

About the instructor(s):

Caleigh Sullivan–  Revamp Woodworking LLC

Caleigh brings 5 years of experience in historic preservation carpentry and a lifetime of working with wood materials.  She has a historic preservation degree from the University of Mary Washington and graduated from the International Yacht Restoration School in Newport, RI where she trained in wooden boat building.  Upon graduating from IYRS, she moved full time into the preservation field where she currently works in window restoration in Massachusetts.  She has completed projects around the country, and a past member of the NRF Preservation Crew.  She is Lead Renovator, RI certified.  Caleigh’s expertise, local knowledge, and ability to connect with students make her a natural to teach in the preservation field. 

Scott McDowell–  Rockwood Joinery LLC

Scott has been the lead instructor of the NRF Preservation Trades Specialist program since its inception in 2022. In 2026 we will welcome our fifth cohort of students.  Scott brings 30+ years of experience in historic preservation. He graduated from North Bennet Street in preservation carpentry, worked for the National Park Service, and currently owns his own preservation company.   He is a member of the Timber Framers Guild, Preservation Trades Network, and the Carpenters Fellowship, UK.  Scott has a deep understanding of the historic trades and is a skilled instructor in teaching hands-on techniques for completing a restoration.