Before you start

Before starting work on your heritage property, read this advice from people who have learned the hard way.*

Be an informed property owner

• Read up on best practices.
• Know that simpler is often better.
• Learn to do easy repairs yourself.
• Save your money for the big jobs.

Aim for realistic projects

• Break big projects into manageable parts.
• Set priorities.
• Don’t get overwhelmed.

Hire a qualified contractor

• Ask for a list of previous projects.
• Ask for references.
• Check them out.

Don’t replace if you can repair

• Respect your building’s character.
• Keep it authentic.
• Remember, old wood is denser and higher quality than new.

Appreciate your home’s character

• People want the character and charm of heritage homes.
• Embrace its creaks, cracks, and signs of age.
• Don’t try to make it look new.

Don’t over-restore

• Don’t let a contractor sell you more than you need.
• Limit repairs to the parts that need it: e.g. don’t repoint your whole house if only one wall is damaged.
• Overusing new materials can cheapen the look and durability of your home.

Document, document, document!

• Take lots of notes and photos before, during, and after your project.
• Give yourself – and future owners – a baseline for further restoration.
• Eliminate future guess work.

* Tips compiled from a 2013 survey of Region of Waterloo heritage property owners and professionals.

Consult the Region of Waterloo’s Heritage Conservation Toolbox:.