As a preservationist I love the enduring exterior brickwork of the Washington DC area’s 100-year-old brick homes. The rich sense of history conveyed by these historic buildings is irreplaceable. According to experts, the durability of the brick and masonry facades depends primarily on its resistance to water penetration. 

As a preservationist I love the enduring exterior brickwork of the Washington DC area’s 100-year-old brick homes. The rich sense of history conveyed by these historic buildings is irreplaceable. According to experts, the durability of the brick and masonry facades depends primarily on its resistance to water penetration. 

When I see an old brick house with crumbling or flaking of the surface of the brick wall, I recognize damage. If the brick wall is part of the main structure of the building, the weakening of mortar can become a severe problem. The integrity of the building may be at stake. Here is what […]

When I see an old brick house with crumbling or flaking of the surface of the brick wall, I recognize damage. If the brick wall is part of the main structure of the building, the weakening of mortar can become a severe problem. The integrity of the building may be at stake. Here is what […]

The oldest of historic brick homes can be restored to their original authenticity preserving a stately beauty that is unparalled. The old brick homes in most DC neighborhoods were constructed with relatively soft, porous bricks and limestone mortar. Many of the interiors were covered with lime plaster. Occasionally these plastered walls, spackled and repainted during a renovation, […]

Like most owners of old houses, your renovation plans probably include matching as many of the authentic building parts – doors, flooring, fixtures, and millwork – as possible. It is possible to find reasonably priced, period materials by shopping the salvage market. 

 If you are the recent owner of a historic home in DC, the chances are that you are looking at a renovation project. Preservation of the building’s authentic characteristics is critical to retaining it’s historic value. If your old house is located in a historic district, there are probably guidelines for you to follow. It’s important […]

 If you are the recent owner of a historic home in DC, the chances are that you are looking at a renovation project. Preservation of the building’s authentic characteristics is critical to retaining it’s historic value. If your old house is located in a historic district, there are probably guidelines for you to follow. It’s important […]

“Windows are the eyes of a house.” They define the character of the home and create a visual impact that distinguishes its curb appeal. On historic homes, the windows are frequently an important element of the architectural integrity. Their design, craftsmanship, or other qualities may make them worthy of preservation.

“Windows are the eyes of a house.” They define the character of the home and create a visual impact that distinguishes its curb appeal. On historic homes, the windows are frequently an important element of the architectural integrity. Their design, craftsmanship, or other qualities may make them worthy of preservation.