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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    • Napa County Landmarks Membership
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Preservation Corner

National Alliance of Preservation Commissions

National Alliance of Preservation Commissions (NAPC)   Mission Helps communities build strong local preservation programs and leaders through education, training, and advocacy.   The National Alliance of Preservation Commissions (NAPC) was founded in 1983 in response to amendments to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. These amendments provided financial assistance to local governments that met requirements of the Certified Local Government program, including the establishment of a local preservation ordinance and commission. NAPC was formed to provide a forum for commissions to discuss mutual problems and to serve as a national voice representing the particular needs of commissions. NAPC provides technical support and manages an information network … [Read More...]

2023 Ten Most Threatened Treasures

Do you have suggestions for 2023?
Let us know, click here for details.

California Preservation Foundation

39th Annual
California Preservation Awards
For more information click here.

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