Fireplaces were essential in Early American homes, providing heat, light, and a hearth for cooking, as well as a family gathering place. In Colonial America, they were usually wide, deep “walk-ins” without much of a mantel. Those in the homes of Dutch settlers were often wider than tall, while the English settlers built them to …
A Hearthside History: Fireplaces, Mantles, and the Early American Home Read More »
Lauren Dillion of Master of Plaster joined the Practical Preservation podcast to discuss: Her introduction to plaster as an art form The different types of plaster (I really didn’t know there were so many) – lime (there are different types of lime!), gypsum, and clay Lauren answered all of my lime wash questions Plus you …
Practical Preservation Podcast featuring Lauren Dillion of Master of Plaster Read More »
At first glance, porches and doors may seem like no more than a way to get in or out of a home or business. But there is much more to these architectural gateways. They are frequently exemplary examples of carpentry that give us a peek into the artisanship of our architectural history and have …
Robert Young, PhD of the University of Utah’s College of Architecture + Planning joined the Practical Preservation podcast to discuss the intersection of sustainability and preservation. During our discussion we discussed how stewardship of existing buildings is the ultimate green building (plus it is large scale recycling). Some of the other topics we discussed are: …
Practical Preservation Podcast featuring Robert Young, PhD of University of Utah Read More »
A solid plan is critical for any construction project. Solid planning will ensure more efficient implementation of your project, limit schedule disturbances and project problems, and control your project’s budget. Proper planning will also reduce the chances of causing irreparable damage to your building. A good plan for any project on your historical building should …
Planning a Historic Building Construction Project Read More »
Did you know that approximately 40 percent of home improvement projects today are the direct result of the poor workmanship or improper materials installed by a previous contractor? You need to arm yourself with the knowledge to research, interview, and weed out the well-intentioned but inexperienced firms or the simply rogue contractors. A few warning …
John Stahl of Next Generation Systems joined the Practical Preservation podcast to discuss his epoxy system, preservation contracting experience and services, plus his window evaluation program of surveying, documenting, and providing recommendations to building owners. A Practical Preservation first – John launched his new product ‘on the air’ – cold weather epoxy for wood: Contact …
Practical Preservation Podcast featuring John Stahl of Next Generation Systems Read More »
Despite all the recent wintery weather, spring is officially here. With its arrival, homeowners turn their attention to maintenance projects – including exterior painting. While seemingly harmless, painting a historical home carries a surprising significant risk of damage. The National Park Service’s Preservation Brief #10: Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork notes: Because paint removal …
This week on the Practical Preservation podcast Jonathan and Danielle answer the older home maintenance questions posed by our listeners. Water infiltration through masonry walls – how it is getting in to the building and damaging the mortar, options to stop storm water, and why is your plaster crumbing Paint – preparation is key, lead …
Spring is finally here, and it’s time to look around your house to see if winter weather has taken its toll. We’ll soon be firing up our grills and relaxing with friends and family. But, before you can do that, there’s much work to be done. In the 19th century, before vacuums came into common …
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