Many historic buildings were built to last, which is why they’re still around for us to enjoy today. However, like any building, they are not indestructible. Over time, wear and tear can take their toll, diminishing these structures’ beauty and functionality.
At Brush Brothers, we’re proud to have experience with painting historic buildings, preserving their integrity and character. We’re honored to be able to contribute to maintaining cultural heritage and honoring the past, whether it’s a turn-of-the-century government building, aging manufacturing facility, or Victorian home-turned-boutique.
If you’re considering a historic building restoration, keep reading to learn more about the unique challenges of painting older buildings, why it’s essential to get help from the professionals, and how to choose the right painting contractor.
The Long-Term Value of Proper Historic Building Restoration
Historical restorations are extensive, multi-step projects designed to restore these buildings to their former glory while incorporating modern features like air conditioning, central heating, upgraded plumbing and electricity, and more. They require collaboration between professionals in many different areas of expertise, from architects and historians to electrical engineers and painters.
Historical restoration is worth doing the right way. Properly restoring your historic building raises its property value much more than cutting corners and making do with subpar materials. It prevents structural decay and extends the building’s lifespan, making it a smart investment for any property owner. You’re not just preserving the building’s structure for years to come — you’re also ensuring its long-term value.
Furthermore, historic building restoration enhances community pride. There’s a finite number of historic buildings out there, and when people get to continue enjoying them, it makes your city a better, more interesting place to live. Plus, depending on your future plans for the building’s use, its restoration can support tourism and local history education.
The Unique Challenges of Painting Historic Buildings
Painting historic buildings is very different from working with modern structures. These projects come with unique challenges, from avoiding damage to aging materials to complying with preservation guidelines.
Strict Preservation Standards
In an effort to preserve the unique craftsmanship of historic buildings, restoration projects must comply with local, state, and federal guidelines. This requires a thorough understanding of the materials and methods approved by historical societies and how to navigate the permitting process.
Delicate Surfaces and Aging Materials
Materials like wood, brick, and plater can become brittle and delicate over time. To avoid causing further damage, you need help from painting professionals who have extensive experience working with fragile, aged surfaces.
Matching Original Colors and Finishes
To truly honor the past, you need to accurately match the original paint colors and finishes. This avoids making the building look too modern and preserves the original builders’ vision.
Why You Should Turn to the Painting Professionals
In an attempt to save money on your historic building restoration, you may be considering DIY painting. However, if you want the best results possible, it’s a good idea to turn to the painting professionals.
When you hire a company with proven experience in historical restoration, you benefit from their knowledge of preservation techniques, affiliations with preservation organizations, and experience with past projects.
Knowledgeable painting professionals can help you with:
- Assessment and planning: Get on-site evaluations to assess the condition of various surfaces and plan the best course of action.
- Surface preparation and repair: Proper preparation is the key to a nice, smooth finish. Professionals can gently clean surfaces, strip old finishes, patch holes, and stabilize aged materials without causing damage.
- Use of period-appropriate techniques and materials: From limewash and milk paint to oil-based paint and hand-brushed finishes, you can trust that your historic building will utilize historically accurate materials.
- Special coatings and protective measures: Breathable paints and coatings allow for material expansion and contraction and prevent cracks, and UV- and moisture-resistant finishes preserve materials without altering aesthetics.
Restore Your Historic Building with Brush Brothers
Historic buildings are unique locations for all kinds of businesses, from retail stores to banks to event venues. Whatever type of business your historic building is home to, it’s essential to seek the help of skilled commercial painters to refresh their appearance while preserving their vintage charm.
At Brush Brothers, we’re committed to helping historic property owners as they embark on restoration journeys. Our comprehensive painting services are designed to blend the best qualities of the past and present, creating a truly unique finish. Contact us today for a consultation or estimate.
