They’re All Different: Energy Savings Strategies for Your Historic Structure

They’re All DifferentEnergy Savings Strategies for Your Historic Structure

Michael C. Brown / Architect

• In Staunton, VA Since 1999

• Member/Historic Staunton Foundation

• Member/Historic Preservation Commission

Each Structure is Different

• Commercial or Residential

• City or Country

• Tight site or Open Land

• Wood Frame or Masonry

• Flat roof/Sloped Roof/Different Materials

• Wholistic Strategy is Best

Energy Benefits of Historic Structures

• There are Energy Saving Qualities Already Present in Historic Structures

• Historic Buildings can be More Energy-Efficient than Many Newer Buildings

Some Available Benefits

• Thick, Heat-Retaining Masonry Walls-Stone or Brick

• Exterior Balconies, Porches, Wide Roof Overhangs, Rooftop Ventilators, Clerestories, Skylights, and Awnings

• Real Exterior Shutters and other devices

• Fewer Windows

• Shared Walls

Strategy

• “Wholistic Strategy” – Evaluate the Entire Building from Basement to Roof

• Get an Energy Audit

Basements and Crawl Spaces

• Insulate the Floor Above

Walls

• Masonry: Better to Leave as-is

• Frame: Insulation can be Added, such as Injectable Spray Foam

• Do not Change the Exterior Appearance Without Approval

• Do not Damage Existing Walls

Windows and Doors

• Add Storm Windows and Doors Where Applicable

• Repair Existing Units

• Replace only as a Last Resort

• Caulk and Weatherstrip

Attics

• Add Appropriate Insulation

Systems

• Replace old and Inefficient Heating and Air Conditioning Systems

• Update old Appliances

• Change to Efficient Lighting

Other

• Geothermal or other Advanced Systems

• Active Solar

• Landscape Options

Additions

• Abide by Historic District Standards

• Use a Design Professional

• Submit the Design to the Preservation Commission if in a Historic District

No-No’s!

• Avoid Waterproofing Old Masonry

• Don’t Remove or Damage Historic Features

• Be Aware of Toxic Substances such as Lead and Asbestos

• Don’t Remove Historic Windows

• Don’t Add Incompatible Materials or Finishes

• Don’t Change Exterior Features Before Approval in Historic Districts

Thank you!