Consult with the experts.
The Advisory Service is a volunteer committee that shares information with homeowners about how to preserve, restore and maintain their old houses.
The group’s members study and record historic structures, constantly adding to our extensive library collection of photos, drawings and reports on local architecture and building elements, including windows, paint, staircases, and cabinetry.
The Advisory Service can start you off in the right direction to do further research on your own, and help you ask the right questions of professional tradespeople. Advisory Service members gained their expertise through the research and restoration of their own houses and enjoy sharing their understanding of architectural styles, methods of construction and types of decoration observed on other local buildings. They do not take the place of architects, interior designers, or professional tradespeople.
House Visits and Phone or Email Consultations
Consultation
One or more members will reply to a specific query via telephone or email exchanges. No fee. Please email your inquiry.
House Visit
Two or more members will visit your house to determine the architectural style, the approximate date of construction and any alterations to the original structure. They will suggest which features should be preserved and attempt to answer questions about appropriate methods of preservation and restoration, suggesting areas in which professional advice is needed. A written report will follow the visit.
Cost
$35.00 for GPL members
$85.00 for non-members (includes a one-year GPL family membership.)
Please download and complete the form below to consult with our experts.
The 5 Biggest Restoration Mistakes
- Not restoring the structural integrity of the building before investing in cosmetic details
- Failing to properly prepare surfaces for restoration (repairing and cleaning walls and woodwork, etc.)
- Underestimating the impact of potential construction hazards (lead, asbestos, dust, electrical problems, etc.)
- Performing projects in a way that undermines previous work (finishing floors before the walls are repaired, restoring interior details prior to completing foundation or roof repairs, etc.)
- Using short-term “cures” that lead to more serious problems in the future (using inferior quality products, performing cosmetic cover-ups, using unskilled labor, etc.)