--- title: Caring for Your Historic Home description: Historic property preservation tips and recommendations image: https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hs-fs/file-366088647-jpg/images/Historic_Home_Insurance.jpg --- - [** ](https://twitter.com/clarkesampson) - [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarke-%26-sampson-inc) - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/clarkeandsampson) [**703-683-6601](tel:17036836601) [     Client Portal](https://portal.csr24.com/mvc/6601690) [![clarke&sampson](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hubfs/Clarkeandsampson_November2018%20Theme/images/logo.png "clarke&sampson")](http://www.clarkeandsampson.com/) - [** ](https://twitter.com/clarkesampson) - [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarke-%26-sampson-inc) - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/clarkeandsampson) [**703-683-6601](tel:17036836601) [     Client Portal](https://portal.csr24.com/mvc/6601690) # Clarke & Sampson Blog # Caring for Your Historic Home Scott Jefferson | Tuesday, December 1, 2020 Share | Facebook Twitter [Email ](mailto:?body=https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/blog/caring-for-your-historic-home) | As a home ages, a thorough maintenance program can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are some steps you can take to help reduce the risk of loss in an older home: • Consult with licensed electrical, plumbing and heating specialists for an initial evaluation, and arrange schedules for routine maintenance. Maintaining and updating essential systems is a critical step in protecting your property. |   |   | ![Historic_Home_Insurance](https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/hs-fs/file-366088647-jpg/images/Historic_Home_Insurance.jpg?width=131&name=Historic_Home_Insurance.jpg) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | • Older homes often have less insulation. To help prevent pipes from freezing, you can insulate pipes directly, shut off exterior faucets, and maintain a comfortable heating temperature at all times. The installation of low temperature sensors tied into the central station alarm system will detect a problem with the heating system and a drop in interior room temperature. Should a pipe freeze and burst, there are also products available that detect water leaks. • If you will be away from home for an extended period of time, shut off your main water supply. • Repairing or re-pointing of mortar walls and chimneys may become necessary when any of the following conditions are noted: cracked or missing mortar, loose bricks or stones, damp walls or damaged plaster work. Left unattended, these conditions can lead to severe water damage and other problems. Regular chimney evaluation and cleaning by a professional is highly recommended. • Missing, worn or broken roofing materials may allow water to penetrate and deteriorate the roof structure. Inspect your roof and flashing around chimneys and skylights periodically, especially after severe storms. Contact a licensed roofer for further evaluation and repairs. • If you live in a wooded area, falling leaves may clog the gutters and lead to water backup that could damage your exterior siding. In late fall, clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris. Downspouts should be directed away from the house to improve drainage around the foundation. • Proper ventilation and updated insulation in the attic can not only reduce the potential for damage or deterioration due to excess moisture, but also reduce energy usage. • Inspect windows and exterior doors for proper caulking and weather stripping. Check exterior paint and siding for peeling and/or cracking. • Regularly inspect decks, terraces and balconies. A deteriorating condition can lead to water damage of the interior. Uneven, cracked or rotting decks, terraces and balconies can lead to a personal injury liability hazard. • Periodically inspect your foundation walls and floors for cracking that might allow water seepage. Avoid storing valuables in the basement. If your basement is prone to leaks or flooding, a sump pump is the best defense. Most sump pumps last about 10 years. Follow the manufacturer’s suggestions for testing and operation. The areas around the pump should be clear of debris. A battery back-up is recommended to ensure proper operation during power outages. [![Learn More](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/289889/2aaa9965-04eb-4835-a5c0-24332e4a075a.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/289889/2aaa9965-04eb-4835-a5c0-24332e4a075a) Share | Facebook Twitter [Email ](mailto:?body=https://blog.clarkeandsampson.com/blog/caring-for-your-historic-home) #### Contact Clarke & Sampson, Inc Office: 703-683-6601 Fax: 703-739-8967 228 S.Washington St. Ste. 200 Alexandria, VA 22314 [Send an Email](mailto:sjefferson@clarkeandsampson.com) - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/clarkeandsampson) - [** ](https://twitter.com/clarkesampson) - [** ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/clarke-%26-sampson-inc) The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed and produced by Agency Revolution to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. Agency Revolution is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2018 Agency Revolution. 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