Because it can be easily shaped by sawing, planing, carving, and gouging, wood is used for architectural features such as clapboard, cornices, brackets, entablatures, shutters, columns and balustrades. These wooden features, both functional and decorative, may be important in defining the historic character of the building and thus their retention, protection, and repair are important in rehabilitation projects. Wood has played a central role in American building during every period and in every style. Whether as structural membering, exterior cladding, roofing, interior finishes, or decorative features, wood is frequently an essential component of historic and older buildings.
Wood features on porch repaired and preserved during rehabilitation.
Removing or radically changing wood features which are important in defining the overall historic character of the building so that, as a result, the character is diminished. Wood features inappropriately stripped of traditional painted finish. Radically changing the type of finish or its color or accent scheme so that the historic character of the exterior is diminished. Protecting and maintaining wood features by providing proper drainage so that water is not allowed to stand on flat, horizontal surfaces or accumulate in decorative features. Applying chemical preservatives to wood features such as beam ends or outriggers that are exposed to decay hazards and are traditionally unpainted.