We all might admire the modern building going up in the office park next door, or the new development of houses in our neighborhoods, but have you considered the benefits of restoring historic buildings and why this is such an important service? There are four major reasons why you (as a community or individual) should consider historic restoration or preservation of your home or building instead of a new structure.
1. Culture
Restoring historic buildings connect us to the past. They are physical reminders of what came before us and help to create a sense of culture in a neighborhood. Historical buildings such as libraries, cathedrals, and estates give us a way to study the past and make sense of the communities that came before us. Old buildings have unique characteristics that can be difficult to replicate in new commercial builds. You may be able to make a new structure look similar to the old, but it won’t feel the same unless the same building techniques and materials are used.
2. Education
Preserving historic homes and buildings act as learning tools not only for architects and builders, but students and communities as well! Think of all the tangible education that would be lost if historic buildings were demolished instead of preserved or restored. Visiting old structures is a way for architects and builders to study past techniques and design, and students and others can learn about what came before them and what might have influenced the present day. It is imperative we restore historic structures and use them as educational tools.
3. Economy
Not only does historic restoration benefit culture and education, but it also helps to boost the economy. Think about all the tourism dollars that could aid a community by keeping these structures alive, well, and as close to the way they were in their heyday. Preserving or restoring old structures is good for business. It benefits travel and tourism, of course, but also helps to create jobs. There are many specialists who pride themselves in the knowledge needed for correctly restoring, preserving, and maintaining old buildings.
4. Environment
Any form of restoration is environmentally friendly compared to a new build. You are not wasting materials, or creating a need for new ones. Also, rehabilitating existing structures can make them more eco-friendly or durable to lessen maintenance costs. Efforts to restore buildings can also help to limit other environmental factors, such as suburban sprawl, traffic, and environmental degradation. Your first reaction to wanting to be eco-friendly may be to invest in many new tools and materials — but the answer may already exist! You can restore a structure that has value, history, and meaning without the need for demolition or investing in tons of new materials. With historic restoration or preservation, you can return a structure to its original look while also making it more energy efficient and increasing its value.
There are four different methods of preserving a historic building.
1. Rehabilitation
Adding to or otherwise altering a property to keep up with its current use but still respect its historic character.
2. Reconstruction
If pieces are missing, these can be re-created to match what existed before they were lost. This is usually done with the aid of old photographs. Sometimes aspects are remolded but will keep former significance.
3. Preservation
Preserving a building maintains how it currently exists in the present day, keeping any historical elements and pieces in place.
4. Restoration
The property is restored to how it existed in a specific moment in history. Usually specific building materials are needed to ensure historical accuracy and to meet codes.
Keeping a connection to the past by choosing a historical restoration service is a wonderful way to give back to your community and environment. Our craftsmen make sure to preserve or restore buildings using all the proper materials and guidelines. We’ve worked with many older properties, including buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, replicating and replacing pieces to ensure historical accuracy. We take the time and care to ensure your building will look not only like the original, but even better!
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