Historic Preservation

Historic buildings and properties are important reflections of the past and are a large part of what makes the Hudson Valley a unique place to live.

Many buildings in the Hudson Valley are more than 100 years old. They tend to be very well constructed with dimensional framing. However, deterioration due to condensation or bulk moisture from water intrusion are all too common. In addition, problematic building design or methods can leave occupants feeling uncomfortable – too hot in the summer, too cold in the winter – with high utility bills.  The good news is that by applying building science principles in parallel with historic preservation standards, it is possible to make your historic building significantly more comfortable, efficient and more durable which will reduce the amount of maintenance required to ensure its survival for future generations.

Historic Building Work: Where Experience Matters

Assessing how a historic building is currently performing, and finding ways to improve it while meeting strict preservation standards requires a contractor with experience. As the materials and performance of historical buildings deteriorate, so does the number of contractors that have the knowledge of how these buildings were built, and how to improve them. Energy Conservation Services has been the trusted retrofit contractor for historical buildings throughout Ulster, Dutchess, Columbia, Greene, and Orange counties, improving their overall comfort while adhering to strict preservation standards.

Improve, Don’t Remove!

Our goal is to improve your historic building, without removing any of its charm or authenticity. We do this by using diagnostic tools to make sure we are making the right upgrades with surgical precision, leaving you with a building that is more comfortable and uses less energy. 

Understanding of Local Regulations & the Historic Register

Historic buildings that are included on the National or NYS Historic Registers are restricted from altering the building exterior. If the building is located within a Historic District, there are often special regulations that guide exterior renovations. Interior renovations are often exempt however any contractor working on a historic building should be familiar with local, state and federal regulations and able to navigate them effectively. Additionally, they should be aware of any local incentives for energy efficiency improvements, such as grants or tax credits, which could help offset the cost of the project.

Owners of historic buildings can preserve the character of the property by embracing the “Principle of Reversibility” on renovation projects. Any improvement installed should impact the structure as little as possible and be reversed if necessary. Improving the comfort, durability and efficiency of historic buildings with materials that are removable is highly recommended. Spray foam should be avoided in historic buildings.

ECS: The Motivation for Historical Preservation Techniques 

We like to think of historic preservation and energy efficiency as one of our “callings” here at Energy Conservation Services. By combining our deep building science knowledge with our experience working on historical buildings, we can provide those that own and operate historical buildings with sound guidance on comfort and energy upgrades like insulation, air sealing, indoor air quality improvements, energy diagnostics and consulting, and more. 

No matter whether the owner of the historic building you are looking to renovate is a private individual, corporation, nonprofit organization, government entity, trust or foundation, Energy Conservation Services is here to help. 

Interested in Research on your Building or Property?

Contact Wiltwyck Historical & Genealogical Services.
info@wiltwyckservices.com

Meet the Preservation Team