Historic Home Restoration

Survey first, then decide what to save

A condition survey records what is original, what has been altered and what is failing. Decisions depend on your goals, your budget and any historic designation that applies to the house. Repairing original windows, plaster and trim often preserves value and character better than replacing them. The contractor explains which elements can be saved, which should be replaced in kind and which need further study by a preservation specialist. Gather old photographs, permits and any previous restoration records, because they show how the house looked and which elements are original.

Working with old materials and methods

Old houses use lime plaster, old-growth lumber, lath and original hardware, and modern materials can damage them if applied incorrectly. Lead paint and asbestos may be present and call for safe handling and testing. Skilled tradespeople match moldings, profiles and finishes, which sometimes means custom millwork. Matching takes time, so build a realistic schedule, and ask to visit finished projects to judge the quality of the work. Ask for references from owners of homes of a similar age and style, and visit one if you can, to judge the craftsmanship in person.

Hidden systems, seismic work and historic review

Upgrading electrical, plumbing and heating systems without damaging historic fabric requires planning and creative routing. Seismic retrofits protect the structure and can often be done discreetly. Historic districts may require review of exterior changes, and the contractor can help prepare submissions and drawings. Keep detailed records of all work, including photographs before and after, because they add to the story and the value of the house. Plan for a longer schedule than a typical remodel, since custom millwork, specialty trades and review boards all add time that cannot be rushed.

ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Construction

Design-ready construction of an accessory dwelling unit by a licensed general contractor: detach…

Backyard Cottage & Detached Guest House Build

Construction of a backyard cottage or detached guest house by a licensed general contractor, fro…

Home Addition (Bump-Out & Sunroom)

Home additions, bump-outs and sunrooms built by a licensed general contractor: foundation, frami…

Detached Garage Construction

Construction of a new detached garage by a licensed general contractor: slab, framing, roof, doo…

Kitchen Layout Change & Wall Relocation

Kitchen remodels that move walls and change layout: structural beams, utilities relocation, new…

Bathroom Addition

Adding a new bathroom to a home by a licensed general contractor: framing, plumbing, ventilation…

Open-Concept Conversion

Open-concept conversions that remove walls between kitchen, dining and living areas, with engine…

Porch Enclosure & Screened Porch Build

Building a screened porch or enclosing an existing porch into usable space by a licensed general…

Accessibility Remodel (Aging in Place)

Accessibility remodeling for aging in place by a licensed general contractor: ramps, wider doors…