Stories at this level: 16

The dangers of replacing too much historical material
If historic features are deteriorated and missing, DON'T end up with an all new building!

Loss of interior finishes
If it was unpainted historically, DON'T paint it ... If it was painted historically, DON'T strip it!

Loss of a distinctive rear elevation
If it's a historically distinctive side or rear elevation, DON'T damage, destroy, or hide it!

Porch alteration
If the porch is a prominent feature, DON'T alter it!

Window alteration
If historic windows need to be replaced, DON'T install different looking new windows!

Loss of a significant building site
If landscape materials and features are historically distinctive, DON'T destroy them!

Subdividing a large significant interior space
If a large interior space is significant, DON'T subdivide it and DON'T destroy distinctive features!

Inappropriate rooftop addition
DON'T put on a new addition that changes the building's historic character!

Intro: Rehabilitation vs. Remodeling
From the U.S. National Park Service, a condensed guide to rehabilitating historic buildings

Part 1: Defining the terms
Preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, reconstruction

Part 2: The 10 Commandments
Key rules to follow when involved in a restoration project.

Part 3: Standards for Rehabilitation
Introduction to the Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings

Part 4: Identify, Retain and Preserve
Identify, Retain and Preserve: The keys to rehabilitation of historic properties

Additions to Historic Buildings
An attached exterior addition may radically change the appearance of an historic building and should be considered carefully.

The National Park Service's Preservation Briefs
This series of booklets offers enormously detailed information on issues facing owners of older houses. We've reprinted all 44 of them.

The Preparation and Use of Historic Structure Reports
Documenting the history and significance of a historic building is essential to its thoughtful preservation

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