The Historic District

This is the tool I used to remove clapboards over the last 35 years. You can find them in antique shops, it's called a Crescent Nail Puller. We had the whole house insulated via blowing cellulose last fall. I asked the guys to use my tool, the two said they were going out to buy one as they had nve...

Your spouse posts before and after pics of the new electrical box on his FB Old House Owners group - and received over 300 likes by morning.

Extending my warm welcome as well. Another lovely home to add to our "neighborhood". The exterior is stunning and well kept - you are so fortunate. The interior pics show a warm and inviting home full of the awesome craftsmanship that makes a century home so glorious. Reading your introduc...

Gibson , much obliged! I really appreciate the detailed explanation. We will put the info to good use this week. Your "slow & steady" approach fits husbands personality - he is very patient and mindful. I didn't mention that we found a good stash of old claps in the garage, should hav...

** Update on the porch decking ** After much researching, searching and thought, I chose to go with custom milled Cypress t&g. It is 5/4" stock, which will be a full 1" after milling. Just couldn't talk myself into the less expensive, common 3/4" t&g (in any species), it just ...

Howdy neighbors It has been a flurry of projects at our house this last month. Finally addressing some of the overdue exterior wood repairs. We have a few places we would like to replace a row of clapboard siding ... in the middle of the wall (of course) Since each clapboard is nailed through 2 laye...

I've been noticing that mitered perimeter trim, along the edge of porches and steps, is rarely used any more. Wicking is inhibited and repair is easier if one is dealing with a piece of trim rather than the full-length boards. Porch Trim Band https://i.gyazo.com/732fcdcdc39f930757151b7ac21ed621.png...

Today I heard my house let out a deep sigh as the aluminum storm windows came down! The difference this one thing makes in her appearance is remarkable.

Judging by the hats and open vehicles, I'd guess the photo is from about the time your library was built, certainly before WWI. I'm thinking the same thing. Open touring cars ended around 1908-10 models and nearly all cars had doors by the 1912 models. But that doesn't mean these can't be 5 yr. old...

I completely understand where you are coming from Lily. I likely can't offer any better advice than Willa or the others have already given you. Take the time to write out a list of everything that you need/want to do, organize it by room or type of work (electrical, painting etc), have a clear budge...