How to Restore Victorian Features

Instructions

• 1

  Consult an architect
  
  Consult a professional, since an architect with Victorian restoration experience can give you more options regarding your own home. Remember that these professionals are rather expensive so be sure to discuss all the different options and costs with him or her.
• 2

  Read your home’s style
  
  Victorian houses were built in several distinct styles. Learn as much about your home’s style and architect as possible. Look for the old paperwork or plans if they still exists regarding the style of your house. If you are unable to find any information, then use the proper reference materials that you can find either online or at your public library. There are many decent resources that you can use to find out what type of style your house is. This will help you when it comes time to restore the many features.
• 3

  Hire services of relevant labour
  
  You can’t do the entire renovation yourself, so be realistic about your strengths and hire the services of labour for what you think you can’t do, like custom millwork, roofing and plumbing etc. Observe state and federal laws when hiring the workforce as well as while disposing of old materials. It might be good idea to hire a professional contractor that specialises in Victorian renovations. You will find various contractors online or through your local yellow pages. Be sure that the contractor you choose is state certified and licensed to do work in your area. If possible check out some of their previous restorations that have been done by this particular contractor. This will give you a good idea of the style and work that they can handle. Remember a contractor will cost quite a bit of money as they handle the labour and other details for you.
• 4

  Estimate your budget
  
  Sketch out a realistic budget while keeping in mind that end of the day you may exceed that budget. If you are short of credit, Look into low-interest loans and various other grants from the state or local sources. Be sure to stick to a realistic budget and do not let your costs get ahead of you. You might want to do your restoration in stages to save money.
• 5

  Visit architectural salvage sellers
  
  To give your home a perfect Victorian era look, you will need to visit salvage yards and showrooms which sell salvaged Victorian-era building materials. This can be done with the help of your contractor as he or she is in a much better position to help you find and source all of the materials that you might need.