What is Historic Building Restoration?

Apr 21, 2025

There are several benefits to historic building restoration such as enhancing the building's appearance, function, and value.

  • Historic buildings are old buildings that hold historical or cultural significance.
  • Historic building restorations have many benefits including educational value and improved appearance.
  • Old Home Rescue offers historic building restoration to restore old buildings and reverse several wood related issues!

 

Historic buildings give a lot of character and value to the neighborhoods they reside in. These buildings are susceptible to many issues over time such as wood rot and damage from weather. When the wood becomes damaged, you may want to consider restoration as an option. Let’s look into historic building restoration and its benefits!

 

What is Historic Building Restoration?

Historic building restoration is meant to renew the building back to its original state. Unlike renovation, restoration does not change the appearance or structure of the building. The process of historic building restoration usually involves wood rot repair, refinishing wooden surfaces, masonry projects, and more. The refinishing process involves stripping of the old finish followed by sanding, priming, and reapplying a new finish.

 

What’s Considered A Historic Building?

The exact criteria of a historic building varies from state to state. Generally, the building will need to be at least 50 years old. The building should have significance in history, architecture, archeology, engineering, or culture. Ideally, the building will embody unique characteristics. Oftentimes, when it comes to homes, these are classified as historic homes for having housed a historic figure.

 

5 Benefits of Historical Building Restoration

Where there are historic structures there are the problems that come with them. Building restoration is often the only thing keeping these historical treasures up and functioning. There are many benefits to historic building restoration as historical spaces bring value, education, and culture to any given area. Keeping up with the integrity of these buildings will keep this value steady!

 

1. Bring Building Appearance Back To Life

Wear and tear from years of weather exposure will often lead to the appearance of the building being altered. Wood that was once pristine becomes rotten and craftsmanship becomes less noticeable. Roof shingles that were once brand new, might be falling off. Historic building restoration brings the appearance of historic buildings back to life by restoring the wood to its original state. This restores not only the appearance, but also the functionality of the home.

 

2. Preserve Culture

Historic buildings act as a reminder of those who lived before us. Oftentimes, these buildings showcase the tastes and lifestyles of those from the past. These buildings typically have different characteristics than the modern homes and buildings that surround us today. It’s important to preserve these pieces of past cultures so that they can be appreciated in the future.

 

3. Environmentally Friendly

Historic building restoration is always more environmentally friendly than building a new structure. This is because you are taking away the need for new materials and keeping an old building functional rather than tearing it down or replacing it. Repairing historic buildings also makes them more energy efficient. This is done by addressing air infiltration, improving insulation, and/or enhancing natural light and ventilation.

 

4. Economic Value

Historic buildings tend to increase the potential of tourism. Many people come from all over to see old pieces of history, stimulating the economy. Tourism also creates many jobs as many businesses specialize in home repair. Repairing and maintaining these structures also saves money as it is cheaper than rebuilding them fully.

 

5. Educational Value

Historic buildings have a lot to teach. These buildings not only teach about older ways of life, but they also provide firsthand information on old architecture. These historical structures typically look different from what we see now. This information is extremely valuable to architects and students.

 

Is Historic Building Restoration Worth It?

Historic building restoration is definitely worth it! There are many benefits to restorations. Historical buildings provide the area with educational opportunities, and first hand cultural context that you may not have access to otherwise. On top of these benefits, it is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than buying new materials and fully replacing old ones. This makes historic building restoration worth every penny!

 

Historic Building Restoration Services By Old Home Rescue

At Old Home Rescue, we believe every historic home and building tells a meaningful story. One that deserves to be protected and passed down to future generations. Our mission is to thoughtfully repair, restore, and renovate historic structures with care, craftsmanship, and respect for their original character. If you’re looking for historic building restoration services, then Old Home Rescue is the right place to be.

 

Our skilled remodel contractors bring extensive experience in both residential and commercial restoration, taking on projects that require precision and a deep knowledge of preservation practices. From exterior home remodeling, and unique home renovations to old house renovations, and aging properties in need of revitalization, our historic building restoration services breathe new life into each space while honoring its unique past.

 

Contact Old Home Rescue

Needing help with your historic home, building, or structure?

 

Phone: 405.549.9880

 

Email: info@oldhomerescue.com