Historic Home Care

There’s something particularly unique that comes along with owning a home in a historic neighborhood. Maybe it’s a sense of permanence, knowing that the home has seen many generations come and go in a space that seems to transcend time. Whatever it is, there’s a certain charm that comes along with living in these spaces. But there’s also a responsibility to maintain and update the homes in tasteful ways that will retain the historic properties of the home. We’ve had the pleasure to help many homeowners execute their visions for historic homes over the years and here are a few aspects of the process that will need to be addressed along the way.

Exteriors

While choosing a new exterior paint color can be an intensive process for just about any homeowner, those in historic neighborhoods face a bigger challenge. There’s often a desire to add personal touches throughout the home which is perfectly natural. However, when considering an exterior update, homeowners may feel obligated to select the same (or a very similar) color.  Though this isn’t mandatory, it’s important to evaluate other houses in the neighborhood and use them as a chromatic guideline to help make the best decision.

Associations

Neighborhood associations in historic areas may be the most restrictive regarding many types of modifications. Although some people may find restrictions frustrating, they should note that these associations are in place to help the preserve areas and offer a neighborhood where past and present intersect. That said; they can serve as a great resource when considering specific types of renovations.

Precautions

Homeowners are advised to take a look around the exterior of their home in search of places where paint may be chipping and flaking. Even though it’s becoming less common as time goes on, houses that were painted before 1978 may have lead paint trapped in these areas.  But well-maintained areas with relatively new paint are unlikely to have these types of issues. If there’s an area that seems questionable, it’s a good idea to schedule a profession inspection before any work begins.