Victorian-style homes are known for their elegant, timeless beauty, and window shutters can play a significant role in creating that classic look. However, shutters were not original to every Victorian home, particularly in urban row houses. The year in which your home was built and the neighborhood where the home is located are both important […]
How Investing in Tuckpointing Can Increase Your Brick Home’s Value
The timeless charm of an historic brick exterior makes it a perennial favorite in the housing market. Homes with unique identities and rich back-stories have an inherent curb appeal built right in—but only if they are properly maintained. Like any other material, brick requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best. Annual inspections of […]
In Need of a Handrail for the Front Steps of Your Historic Brick Home?
When it comes to curb appeal, your front steps can make a huge impact. Signaling excellent craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a welcoming atmosphere, they add a special touch to your historic brick home. However, the beauty of your entryway isn’t the only consideration. Safety is an ongoing concern, especially in areas that experience severe […]
Decorating Your Historic Home: How to Hang Things on Brick Walls
One of the most popular renovations for historic brick homes is removing the plaster on an interior wall to expose the natural beauty of the brick. Warm and inviting, it adds a textural dimension, and lends an extra layer of historical authenticity to your home’s interior. Although the exposed brick gives visitors an idea about […]
Why Winter is the Perfect Time for Interior Tuckpointing
As you settle into winter, there may not be too many thoughts of home repairs or improvements running through your mind. However, if you’ve been considering exposing some interior brick walls or repairing interior brickwork, winter happens to be an excellent time to get the job done. Taking care of interior tuckpointing now removes a […]
Thinking Ahead: Planning for an Urban Garden This Spring
As we settle into winter and its most difficult months, your thoughts may be consumed with snow removal and preventing slips and falls on icy surfaces. When you are cooped up in between those winter chores, your thoughts might turn towards spring and new ways to beautify your home. No matter what size property you […]
Three Key Ways to Avoid Winter Water Damage to Old Brick
Historic brick homes are certainly beautiful and charming – and those that have stood the test of time are also resilient, having demonstrated considerable ability to hold their own against the elements. When you consider the fact that historic brick and mortar are not waterproof, this is impressive. Both building materials are porous, but yet […]
Considering Whether to Paint Old Brick? Here’s What You Need to Know.
Are you thinking about painting the brick in or on your historic DC home? Be it one interior wall, or the entire exterior of your home, this is a decision that should be carefully weighed. Keep in mind that once brick is painted, you’ll be committed to either a cycle of repainting every three to […]
Don’t Slip Up: Protect Historic Brick While Keeping Walkways Ice Free
There’s no getting around it—winter is here! As a homeowner, you’re well aware of the challenges that come with snow and ice, trying to keep concrete from turning into skating rinks, and the endless battle to keep gravel in the driveway where it belongs. Yet both concrete and gravel are better at withstanding modern chemical […]
A Message for the Holidays
The entire team at Renaissance Development wishes you and yours a safe, snug, and peaceful holiday season. We appreciate the trust that so many of you have placed in us to help care for your historic homes and urban gardens. Thank you.
