HPC of South Bend and St. Joseph County - Standards Update Draft

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City of South Bend and St. Joseph County Historic Preservation Guidelines 106 For More Information: Wood Siding and Trim Siding Photographically document architectural features that are slated for reconstruction prior to the removal of any historic fabric . Consider using contemporary wood siding, which conveys the visual appearance of historic siding, when replacement of such materials is required, and will manage moisture in a similar way as the historic siding material . Orient all replacement siding horizontally, unless there is a sound, historic documentation for a different original orientation. If synthetic materials (vinyl or aluminum) siding can be installed, it must match the dimensions of the original siding . Generally, smooth faced, narrow profile siding (3” or 4” depending on the character of the existing siding) is acceptable. Wherever possible without causing damage to historic fabric, trim, such as corner boards, should project slightly beyond the new siding . If vinyl or aluminum siding is allowed, it must be ventilated to prevent deterioration of the wood siding and wall structure behind . Installation of insulation with a proper vapor barrier should be done from the interior . Do not replace missing wood features with conjectural or falsely historic reconstructions or with newly designed elements that are incompatible with the building’s size, scale, material, or color. Do not use textured plywood (T1-11) vertical siding. This is not an appropriate substitute material. Do not install artificial stone, asbestos singles, or asphalt shingles over or as a replacement for exterior siding . Vinyl or aluminum siding on historic buildings is inappropriate . Retention of exposed original wood siding is always preferred. Do not obscure or damage historic ornament, or decoration, such as fish scale shingles, windows casings, sills, hoods, brackets, or corner boards when installing new siding . Do not remove exterior siding to install insulation within the exterior wall cavities of historic wood frame construction . This can result in damage to historic fabric and will lead to paint failure on the exterior as well . Trim Boards, Corner Elements, and Cornices If synthetic siding can be installed, it must match the dimensions of the original trim and corner boards . Wherever possible without causing damage to historic fabric, trim, such as corner boards, should project slightly beyond the new siding . Opening Frames All historic window and door frames, trim, hoods, etc . shall be preserved and maintained . When covering with synthetic materials, these components must either remain visible, or be covered in a way that replicates the historic trim dimensions, and profiles. Do not damage or remove these elements . Accessories Ensure when conducting lead remediation, that all work complies with local, state, and federal standards . Paint encapsulation is an accepted means of remediation and is the preferred treatment for historic properties over removal or covering with synthetic materials . Return to the Table of Contents Wood Siding and Trim DRAFT