The historic United States is not filled with castles and crumbling manors like most European countrysides. We are not without our history, however. Our country was built on a tradition of farming and agriculture that dates back to the early days of the colonists. Barns invoke a sense of tradition, family, and security. It is only natural to want to restore historical structures to their former beauty and functionality.
If you have an old structure on your property, here are some great tips for beginning a barn restoration project:
- Think about your current purpose. The great thing about restoration projects is a structure can become anything you want it to be. Consider whether you will be using a barn for farming, storage, residential, or sentimental reasons. The purpose will drive how you approach your project, from the materials used to the craftsmanship.
- Know your budget. Every restoration project hinges on a budget. Do some research about grants and tax exemptions that historical structures might be eligible to receive in your area. Find out about local zoning and construction regulations, and factor any fees into your total cost. Start the process to acquire local permits, if required.
- Document everything. When you’re undertaking a restoration project, keep dated pictures and documents that cover the original state of the structure. Write down as much as you can about damage that needs to be repaired. Remember to document the project every day, too. Keep track of any features dismantled for restoring to ensure they are properly replaced or reattached.
- Consider the craftsmanship. If you’re trying to restore a historical building to its original state, make sure your contractor understands that the project needs to be consistent with the barn’s original design.
- Determine early on if you want to be physically engaged in the project. If you want to handle some aspects of the restoration, make sure you and your contractor factor all work into the overall project timeline.
- Communication is important. Even if you’re putting the majority of a project into the hands of your contractor, consistent communication is vital for the success of any construction or restoration project. Walk around the job site, ask questions, and talk to your contractor if you have any concerns.
Barn and historical agricultural building restoration projects can be very rewarding. Each project is different, so make sure you evaluate your expectations and needs early on for the best possible outcome. Reach out to MilMar Post Buildings to learn more today.