Working on Homes In Historic Districts

Historic districts are some of the most beautiful places to work, but this past week reminded us how complicated it can be for homeowners who simply want to maintain their property. We were on a project in one of Iowa’s historic neighborhoods, and once again we saw how difficult it is for residents to get even basic gutter repairs approved. Between strict style requirements and the high cost of “approved” materials, many homeowners end up delaying repairs altogether. Over time, that leads to the very thing historic rules are supposed to prevent: buildings slowly decaying because upkeep becomes financially unrealistic.

Preserving architectural character matters, but expecting homeowners to shoulder the entire burden without support doesn’t make sense. If a district requires specific materials or styles, there should be grants, tax credits, or some kind of assistance to help people keep these homes in good shape. Otherwise, the rules end up working against preservation instead of supporting it.

Our team has spent years working on historic homes across Iowa, and we’ve learned how to navigate the approval process while still offering options that don’t break the bank. Half‑round gutters, copper systems, and other historically appropriate materials can be surprisingly affordable when sourced and installed correctly. We’ve completed many projects that passed historic review without forcing homeowners into unnecessary upgrades or inflated costs.

Another challenge with older homes is the presence of lead paint. Many properties in historic districts still have it, which means any exterior work—gutters included—must be handled with care. We’re a licensed Lead Safe Renovator in the state of Iowa, so we’re trained and certified to work safely on these structures while protecting homeowners, families, and our crew.

Historic homes deserve to be cared for, and homeowners deserve a process that makes that possible. Until the system catches up, we’re committed to offering compliant, cost‑effective solutions that keep these properties looking their best without putting unnecessary strain on the people who live in them. If you’re in a historic district and unsure where to start with gutter repairs or replacements, we’re always happy to walk you through your options.