One of the things homeowners enjoy about owning an historic home is the character and attention to detail that is typically evident in its construction. Appreciating period architecture is easy; attempting to preserve its beauty can often be the challenge. If you need help to maintain an historical home, you’ll want to start with these suggestions:

• Consult a professional. If your home is covered under the local historic review board or society, you’ll want to make sure you know what their guidelines and restrictions are and how to negotiate when their standards feel unrealistic or are cost-prohibitive. An architect or home remodeler with experience in historical renovations can help guide you through that process. When hiring an expert, make sure they come with the right credentials, and always ask for references.
• Research. In addition to understanding your review board’s standards, you will want to understand the task at hand through additional research. Go to your local historical society, museum, or library and review archived permit documents, photographs, and historical plans. Find online forums with other historic homeowners and trade advice and insights into each other’s projects.
• Paint. Even without review board requirements, you will want to stay within traditional paint color schemes based on the period of your home. A professional can help analyze your current paint to recreate an accurate color. Most national brands have historical color paint lines as well. Your historical commission may also know someone with exterior paint expertise with whom you can consult.
• Windows. Old homes are known for drafty windows and so it is common for owners to want to upgrade to insulated, more environmentally friendly, windows. This can be done, as long as your new windows mimic the age and design of the home. Another option is to have the windows repaired and add storm windows. Again, when it comes to historical restoration you’ll want to invest in someone who really has the knowledge and expertise to do the job right.

Owning an historic home is a different type of investment. While being budget conscious is a smart plan, in this instance, you'll want to focus on the heritage and accuracy of renovating your house so that the beauty remains intact for years to come.