If your historic brick home is scheduled for mortar repair as soon as winter melts into spring, consider the interior projects that can be completed while you wait. Projects that can be done with the windows closed and don’t involve the removal of walls will satisfy your need to renovate. Renovating and maintaining your historic brick home requires lots of planning and scheduling. If your exterior tuck pointing project isn't scheduled until spring, don't lose your momentum. Winter is a great time to channel your renovation energy into interior projects.
These selected home improvement projects can reduce your energy use and utility bills, increase your property value and may stave off larger and more expensive fixes. Start with a few do-it-yourself projects:
Install a Programmable Thermostat.
If you haven’t already done so, install a new programmable thermostat that sets temperatures for different times of the day automatically. You can have a constant comfortable temperature while you are home and save energy when you are gone.
Insulate the Water Heater.
You can save energy by lowering the temperature of your water heater. The ideal temperature is 120 degrees. An insulation wrap will help the water stay hot in between uses. Insulation kits are easily available at your local hardware store.
Refurbish Your Interior Doors.
Interior doors say a lot about your home. Faded stain, chipped paint, and dull hardware may signal aging and neglect. You may not have to replace them. Instead, try refurbishing them with fresh paint in modern and tasteful colors and updating the hardware. Adding molding to flat doors creates dimension for an elegant and expensive feel.
Winter is a great time to hire a contractor to work on historic brick homes. During this slow time, it’s easier to find one for these two interior renovations:
Refinish the Basement.
When you turn your basement into a versatile living area, the additional space adds comfort and value to your home.
Update Your Kitchen.
Talk to your contractor about upgrading countertops, flooring, cabinets, appliances or more! With a remodeled kitchen, you gain a more efficient workspace.
Renaissance Development, a leader in historic preservation, specializes in the brick restoration of DC historic buildings. The company uses traditional methods (tuckpointing) and materials to repair and replace damaged mortar joints. Contact us for a free site visit and project quote.
