Welcome to Old House Authority

Welcome to Old House Authority, where we connect property owners with preservation professionals to ensure the historically appropriate rehabilitation of old houses. Many skilled craftsmen and specialists work independently and are not easy to find. For them, we serve as advocates and promoters, helping to preserve their knowledge and skills while preventing the mistakes in renovation that too often diminish the historic and architectural integrity of old houses.

Weatherize Your Old Doors Old doors often have uneven gaps. This handy corner-grooving machine helps make your house snug and energy efficient. Watch Video >> More info on corner grooving machines >>

Got Columns?

If you’ve got columns - interior or exterior - you’ve got a distinctive architectural feature well worth preserving. But, before you repair or replace them make sure you understand the finer nuances of their design, proportion, profile and materials.  Read more  >>

Ask the Authority - Working with Plaster

Question - The plaster in my house is riddled with cracks. Is it worth the trouble to repair it, or would it be wiser to go ahead and replace it?
Answer - Removing plaster and lath is a straightforward process, but it’s unbelievably messy. Depending on where you live, disposing of the debris can also be extremely costly.  Read more  >>

Planting Shade Trees: Landscaping to Save Energy

Here’s a thought: according to the U.S. Forest Service, fifty million shade trees planted in strategic, energy-saving locations could eliminate the need for seven 100-megawatt power plants.  Read more  >>