Over time, the cost of maintenance is substantially less than the replacement of deteriorated historic features and involves considerably less disruption. Keeping the roof sound, armatures and attachments such as shutters tightened and secured, and having joints and connections functioning well, strengthens the ability of older buildings to withstand natural occurrences. Well-maintained properties tend to suffer less damage from storms, high winds, and even small earthquakes. The survival of historic buildings in good condition is primarily due to regular upkeep and the preservation of historic materials. Routine and preventive care of building materials is the most effective way of slowing the natural process of deterioration. There are rewards for undertaking certain repetitive tasks consistently according to a set schedule. Work done on a crisis level can favor inappropriate treatments that alter or damage historic material. If maintenance is deferred, a typical response is to rush in to fix what has been ignored, creating additional problems.

Surfaces and parts that were seamlessly joined when the building was constructed may gradually become loose or disconnected materials that were once sound begin to show signs of weathering. An older building has already experienced years of normal weathering and may have suffered from neglect or inappropriate work as well.ĭecay is inevitable but deterioration can accelerate when the building envelope is not maintained on a regular basis. As soon as a building is constructed, restored, or rehabilitated, physical care is needed to slow the natural process of deterioration. Proper maintenance is the most cost effective method of extending the life of a building. If existing materials are regularly maintained and deterioration is significantly reduced or prevented, the integrity of materials and workmanship of the building is protected. Maintenance helps preserve the integrity of historic structures. Work, including preliminary measures to protect and stabilize the property, generally focuses upon the ongoing maintenance and repair of historic materials and features rather than extensive replacement and new construction.” 1 Preservation is defined as “the act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity, and materials of an historic property.

Maintaining the Exterior of Small and Medium Size Historic Buildings

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