Overview
This historic Chicago area home featured outdated horizontal siding with incorrect proportions that failed to reflect its original architectural character, while years of aging and weathering had diminished the crisp details that once defined its charm. The homeowners sought a sensitive restoration approach that would honor the home's historic integrity while utilizing modern, durable materials capable of protecting their investment for decades to come.
The Challenge
The existing siding's standard wide reveal created visually heavy proportions that departed from the home's original historic scale, while worn trim elements lacked the crisp definition necessary to showcase authentic architectural details. The challenge required balancing historic preservation standards with the practical benefits of modern fiber cement technology through custom installation techniques.
Results
Our craftsmen executed a meticulous historic restoration with premium materials and authentic detailing:
- Custom Historic Siding: Installed James Hardie fiber-cement siding in Fathom Blue with a precise 3-inch reveal specifically designed to replicate original historic proportions, requiring labor-intensive course alignment and detailed layout around bay windows, gables, and porch transitions.
- Architectural Trim Restoration: Applied Arctic White James Hardie trim with clean window surrounds, pronounced corner boards, and carefully rebuilt fascia and soffits that honor original craftsmanship while providing sharp contrast against the Fathom Blue siding.
- Period-Accurate Installation: Executed custom siding layouts with meticulous course alignment across all elevations, utilizing trim profiles and transitions designed to preserve authentic architectural character rather than taking modern shortcuts.
Conclusion
This historic restoration successfully preserved the home's original architectural character while providing modern durability and weather protection through premium fiber cement materials. The custom 3-inch reveal installation and careful attention to period-appropriate details created an authentic exterior that honors the home's heritage while ensuring decades of low-maintenance performance and protection.
