“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.
How to Select the Right Masonry Contractors in Washington DC
As the snow and ice disappear and the signs of spring are everywhere, it’s time to take a critical look at your historic DC brick home. Signs of weather wear and other types of deterioration require the expertise of masonry contractors in Washington DC. If you are doing this for the first time, it can […]
Ten DIY Skills for Owners of Historic DC Brick Homes
Owners of historic DC brick homes are often challenged by the frequent repairs to worn out systems and surfaces found in old structures. Some of these can be handled with “do-it-yourself” homeowner skills. Here are ten common fixes and the websites for the expert advice that can help you get it right.
Owners of Historic DC Brick Homes Look for Ice Dam Damage
Winter season is known for the ice dams that build up at the edge of a roof and can lead to serious damage. Home owners witness an ice slab that gets thicker each day with fang-like icicles hanging from the edge. Historic DC brick homes are susceptible to the damage caused by the ice build […]
Best Winter Renovations for Historic Brick Homes
If your historic brick home is scheduled for mortar repair as soon as winter melts into spring, consider the interior projects that can be completed while you wait. Projects that can be done with the windows closed and don’t involve the removal of walls will satisfy your need to renovate.
Planning the Renovation of Your Historic DC Brick Home
Historic Washington DC brick homes give their neighborhoods a classic elegance that is unique to century-old row homes. When restoring one of these structures, homeowners try to integrate modern conveniences and necessities without compromising the integrity of the house. Careful planning will help to ensure success!
Should You Renovate to Sell Your Historic DC Brick Home?
Owners who intend to sell their historic homes often undertake renovation projects to increase the value of the real estate. Many local realtors advise sellers that not all home improvement projects are equally cost effective. There are multiple factors to consider when planning a renovation to sell a home.
Ice Dams That Form on DC Brick Homes Spell Trouble
Winter weather, with its freeze and thaw patterns, brings renewed attention to the problems associated with the ice dams that form on the eaves of our homes. Owners of historic DC brick homes will want to learn more about preventing the damage that can result.
Tips for Ice and Snow Removal from DC Brick Walkways and Steps
As winter snow covers the city landscape with a soft white blanket to reflect the soft lights of the holiday season, DC brick walkways and steps become a challenge for homeowners. Using salt or other chemical de-icing products to remove ice and snow from brick walkways can damage and stain the bricks, degrade the mortar […]
Tips for Old Homes: Brick Chimney Repair
The exposed mortar in many Washington DC brick chimneys is particularly vulnerable to weather damage. The right mortar joints can last for 25 years or more, but are greatly affected by the weather. If your historic home has a brick chimney, it may need to be repaired before the winter weather hits.