Napa County Landmarks

Preserving irreplaceable historic buildings and properties.

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Understanding Repairs to Historic Buildings and Structures Damaged by the South Napa Earthquake

Courtesy of the National Trust for Historic Preservation
Courtesy of the National Trust for Historic Preservation

The following information is a brief summary and aid to assist property owners in the initial assessment phase of reclaiming their homes and businesses by providing guidance to assessing the damage that you are encountering as a result of the South Napa Earthquake. 

After suffering from a disaster, historic property owners are challenged with the basic question of where to begin. Often, homeowners and businesses may not have the time, energy, resources, or knowledge to make a these quick decisions regarding the home and how to distinguish salvageable fabric from that which is dispensable. One rule of thumb is that if it is historic, it is worth saving.

To start, the best approach to repair and restoration after a disaster is often done with the “gentlest means possible”. In other words, approach the building gently and work up to the appropriate solution rather than starting with the harshest approach.

Questions to ask yourself before work begins: 

  • Am I repairing historic materials rather than removing or replacing them?
  • Am I using “like” materials?
  • Is this treatment “reversible?”

Despite the drastic circumstances, please keep in mind that most historic buildings and structures are built extremely well and protecting the historic materials and working with qualified historic preservation specialists, contractors, and architectures can help insure your investment is worth saving. The key to the thought process after a disaster is to keep in mind there are often simpler solutions to the problems you are facing in your home; rather than drastic approaches that are rarely necessary.

Napa County Landmarks is available to help historic property owners understand historic building material, and also to learn where to find answers to protecting, preserving and maintaining their investments. 

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Preservation Corner

What You Need to Know
Before Buying an Old House

With their aesthetic character and distinctive charm, old houses are staples on the real estate market. In fact, many buyers aren’t interested in new constructions at all and prefer the qualities of homes built in certain styles or eras. However, an older home isn’t right for every sort of buyer. Notorious for their maintenance needs, old houses may also pose a good deal of expense for homeowners. If you’re getting ready to shop for a home, you’ll want to consider the pros and cons of buying an old house and whether this purchase is truly right for you. What are the Pros and Cons of Old House? Every real estate purchase will have its upside and downside. However, there are some unique pros and cons associated with older houses that you should consider before you buy one. In fact, many … [Read More...]

2022 Ten Most Threatened Treasures

Do you have suggestions for 2022?
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California Preservation Foundation

38th Annual
California Preservation Awards
For more information click here.

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