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The reason people can think of examples of great construction in 100-yo homes is that all the crappy ones were leveled or destroyed years ago.
Of course, and that leads us to:
"I don't know anything about art, but I know what I like."
Corollary:
"I don't know anything about houses, but I know what I like."
And, there is never anything wrong with knowing what one likes, in any pursuit. Ignoring facts about construction and speaking in absolutes steps past that point, however.
The reason people can think of examples of great construction in 100-yo homes is that all the crappy ones were leveled or destroyed years ago.
Also, with many 100 year old homes, the only thing original about them are the foundation, framing and interior trim. And even then, I'd hardly consider those items to be better than what's required in modern building codes. Usually in a major renovation (if done properly) and engineer has been brought in to make sure those items are adequate. More than likely, a few changes and additions are going to be made.
Siding and windows COULD be original on a historic home, but that would have to be really well maintained. And even then, 100 year old windows would be horribly ineffective at sealing the house. And old siding requires a ton of maintenance and probably doesn't have proper waterproofing underneath.
Anything else left in a 100 year old house (aside from finishes like original floors and trim), would be junk. Electric, HVAC, plumbing would all have to modernized.
"I don't know anything about art, but I know what I like."
Corollary:
"I don't know anything about houses, but I know what I like."
And, there is never anything wrong with knowing what one likes, in any pursuit. Ignoring facts about construction and speaking in absolutes steps past that point, however.
Bingo
But it's easy to watch TV and see well-maintained and renovated historic homes and say, "Gee, they just don't build them like that anymore".
Conversely, anyone that knows homes says, "holy crap the renovation and maintenance costs must be a small fortune on that place".
My aunt and uncle own a historic home in PA (built in the 1800s). They did major renovations when they moved in. The house is incredible and well built, but I cry when I image what it must have cost them to get it to where it is.
sorry i am late joining city-data and i just read this about houses making it for forty years...Im 51 this is my second home my first was built in 1953 and the floors of hardwood are still impeccable and very little foundation settling at all. my second home in trenton tennessee..built in 1900. still standing just bought it needs some work but dont they all but the wood rafters are so solid we cant find a screwgun that can make a screw penetrate that good ole oak!!!! If i buy another it wont be this old i dont think but i will definately buy pre 1978....all the sears
craftsman homes are still intact, i mean if they are still there it is facinating to think this house is 117 years od tell ol mayor thats almost triple the years he said a house would or coud last
Last edited by gregs1900house; 02-22-2017 at 01:55 AM..
Reason: always spelling
"petty sure."
I know it is a typo, but I think you have likely coined a very fun new phrase!
and the intelligent, perfect MJ also had a spelling error that after reading this he'll never again: "aesthetic" rather than "Esthetic"
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old houses rock
