Historic buildings left vacant and unattended deteriorate rapidly under the influence of the elements, invasive animals, insects and vandalism. Old Line Architects is experienced in preservation practices to identify these issues and prescribe measures to correct the damage as feasible and retard any further decay. We work with clients facing federally mandated requirements to protect historic structures impacted by development as per Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. When no immediate use has been identified for the property or when funds are not presently available for rehabilitation or restoration, we outline and detail procedures to preserve the structure through a process called mothballing until such time that a permanent solution can be implemented. The mothballing process follows the guidelines published in Preservation Brief 31 by the National Park Service/ US Department of the Interior and includes documentation and stabilization.
Documentation may involve manual field measurement and recording for simple structures or 3D color laser scanning for more complex buildings or larger projects. Detailed floor plans and elevations are developed of existing conditions for historic record and to serve as a base for all prescribed work and observations.
The documentation is augmented with extensive high resolution color digital photography to record existing conditions and catalogue significant historical features.
Our field investigations identify areas of concern regarding stability and structural integrity including damaged, decayed, missing or otherwise compromised structural members, bowed, leaning or cracked load bearing walls, deteriorating historic masonry and differential settlement of the foundation. Recommendations are given regarding repair, replacement or temporary shoring.
Mechanical and electrical systems are evaluated to determine if these should be shut down and abandoned, or scaled back and maintained to provide minimum conditioning of the vacant building.
Rodent and insect infestation or other detrimental animal activity is noted. Recommendations are made for extermination and safeguards prescribed to eliminate future damage.
Components of the building envelope (roof, walls, windows, doors) are assessed and recommendations made for repair or replacement.
Our mothballing package includes details and procedures to secure the building against weather related damage and reduce the risk of vandalism while providing for adequate ventilation to eliminate stagnant conditions, high humidity and increased mold growth. Finally, a custom monitoring program is developed to guide the Owner in scheduled maintenance and regular surveillance.
