As Florida preservation professionals at Historic Shed and Preservation Resource, Inc., we have always known that Historic Preservation
is one of the most inherently "green" professions in addition to providing a multitude of benefits to communities. Our products are
created to help homeowners make the most of the inherent good, environmentally-conscious design found in most historic homes,
making them more livable while maintaining historic character.
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When you choose to repair and restore an existing home, you are
performing the ultimate recycling project. Sustainable practice recommendations include considering the embodied energy of products
in addition to the long-term energy savings. When a historic home is demolished, all the energy used to produce and assemble
the home is wasted. Since the energy is already expended, preserving the home has much less impact on the environment.
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Historic Preservation
reduces landfill wastes. Estimates vary, but it is commonly accepted that between 15% and 20% of municipal solid waste
comes from construction and demolition projects. Obviously, landfill debris would be reduced if more people choose to preserve
an existing building rather than demolish and build new. When true preservation practices are followed during historic
home renovations ("repair rather than replace"), waste is reduced even more.
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According to noted economist and historic preservation
advocate, Donovan Rypkema, "Sustainable Development requires environmental responsibility, economic responsibility, and social/cultural
responsibility." Preservation and renovation of existing building stock is the one type of development that merges these three elements,
helping maintain vibrant, livable communities in addition to being environmentally and economically responsible.
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Since most historic
Florida buildings were built without air conditioning, they already utilize many energy saving features that "green" designers are
rediscovering. Items such as wide overhangs, operable windows with screens, screen doors, awnings and ceiling fans can reduce
cooling costs when used during our more temperate months instead of relying on mechanical systems. In addition, historic buildings
are often constructed of more durable materials than are readily available today.
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We agree completely with the National Trust for
Historic Preservation's policy statement on community revitalization: "Revitalizing our historic hometowns and Main Streets is
not about nostalgia. It is about reinvesting in our older and historic neighborhoods. Preservation-based community development not
only protects our heritage, but also is a viable alternative to sprawl that creates affordable housing, generates jobs, supports independent
businesses, increases civic participation, and bolsters a community’s sense of place."
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Historic preservation makes economic sense.Studies have shown that investment in historic neighborhoods and commercial centers stabilize property values, encourage
redevelopment, stimulate business development, and generate tourist dollars.
Places that people love and care about do not spring
up overnight; they are built over time, giving them a sense of those who came before and developing character that is unlike anywhere
else. Preserving these buildings and sites gives us a sense of place and provide a tangible link to our heritage. We
hope that Historic Shed products and services can help efforts to maintain and preserve historic properties while improving their
functionality.
Call us at 813-333-2249
Copyright © 2008-2009 by Preservation Resource, Inc. dba Historic Shed