Revive Your Old Exterior: Transforming Exterior Spaces

The phrase "old exterior" conjures images of beloved, historic structures and the unique charm they bring to their surroundings. However, as buildings age, their exterior often requires care and attention to maintain their beauty and functionality. In this article, we'll explore the importance of preserving old exteriors, along with practical tips and techniques to restore and maintain them.

Old exteriors tell a story, reflecting their architectural history, cultural heritage, and the passage of time. They instill a sense of character, authenticity, and often, a deep connection to our past. Yet, time takes its toll, and without proper care, old exteriors can degrade, leading to costly repairs and even demolition. Fortunately, conscious preservation and maintenance can keep these structures standing strong.

Understanding Your Old Exterior

The first step in caring for an old exterior is understanding its composition and history. Old buildings were often constructed using locally sourced, natural materials like wood, brick, stone, or stucco. Each material has unique characteristics, requiring specific care and maintenance techniques.

an old brick house with ivy growing on the front and side windows, surrounded by lush greenery

an old white house sitting on top of a lush green hillside under a cloudy sky

Learning about your building's history can provide valuable insights into its original design and construction methods. This information can guide your maintenance efforts and help ensure that any restorations remain true to the original architecture.

Assessing the Current Condition

Before planning any maintenance or restoration work, conduct a thorough inspection of your old exterior. Look for signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. This can include cracks in masonry, peeling paint, broken or missing components, and ineffective water drainage. Take note of any areas that require immediate attention to prevent further damage.

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Engage a professional inspector or historic preservation specialist to help with your assessment. They can provide expertise in identifying potential issues and developing a plan for repairs and maintenance.

Researching Appropriate Materials and Techniques

When it comes to restoring or maintaining an old exterior, it's crucial to use authentic, historically accurate materials and techniques. Inappropriate replacements or repairs can detract from the building's historical integrity and value. Research the appropriate materials, finishes, and restoration methods for your specific exterior. Seek advice from historic preservation organizations, local historical societies, and experienced professionals.

For instance, using original or reclaimed bricks or stone for repairs is preferable to using new, uniformly sized materials. Similarly, traditional lime-based mortars should be used for repointing masonry instead of modern cement-based alternatives, which can be more rigid and damaging to old structures.

an old abandoned house in the middle of some tall grass and trees with weeds growing around it

an old house with steps leading up to the front door and bushes surrounding it, on a sunny day

an old brick building with two large windows on the front and second story, along with potted trees

Restoring and Maintaining Old Exterior Surfaces

Armed with knowledge of your building's history and the appropriate materials and techniques, you can begin restoring and maintaining your old exterior. Here, we'll delve into specific steps for common old exterior surfaces.

Remember, maintaining old exteriors is an ongoing process. Regular inspection, cleaning, and minor repairs are essential to prevent significant problems and extend the life of your building's exterior.

Masonry Walls

Maintaining masonry walls involves addressing issues like cracks, crumbling mortar, and efflorescence (a white, powdery substance that forms on masonry surfaces). Regularly clean walls using gentle methods like brushing, low-pressure washing, or applying a mild acid solution to remove dirt, stains, and efflorescence. Allow the wall to dry completely before applying a breathable, elastomeric sealer to protect against water intrusion and further deterioration.

an old white house sitting in the middle of a field

an old stone building with a brick roof and arched doorway, surrounded by greenery

a large brick house with a blue door and window in the front yard surrounded by greenery

an old building with a clock tower on the front and side of it in the snow

an old white house with two windows and a fence

an old stone house with ivy growing on it's roof and steps leading up to the front door

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an old house with ivy growing all over it

an old mansion with a bird sitting on the gate

an old brick building with graffiti on it's side in the middle of winter

an old run down house sitting on the side of a road

To repair mortar joints, carefully remove damaged mortar using a raking tool and replace it with a mixture of historic lime putty or NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) and sharp sand. Apply the mixture using a pointing trowel, ensuring it's flush with the surrounding masonry and well-compacted.

Wood Siding

Wood siding requires periodic cleaning, painting, and/or staining to protect it from the elements. Start by removing any loose or peeling paint and sanding smooth surfaces. Inspect for rot or insect damage, and repair or replace any affected areas using like-kind, aged wood.

Choose a paint or stain that's appropriate for your building's age and historic context. Apply it using traditional methods, such as brushing or painting, and ensure any masonry or metal components are primed and painted to match the wood siding.

Protecting and preserving old exteriors is a labor of love, but with the right knowledge and commitment, it's possible to keep these historic testimonies standing proud for generations to come. By understanding their history, maintaining their surfaces, and repairing them in kind, we can help ensure that these treasured structures remain a part of our shared past and future.