Energy-efficient Retrofits
Retrofitting an historic structure to be energy efficient often comes with a unique set of requirements. The historic character of the building should not be compromised in the process.
The Franklin Restoration Company employs techniques that allow original historic details to be preserved while achieving maximum energy savings.
For example, insulating walls can be achieved by dense packing with cellulose insulation from the exterior to preserve interior plaster and woodworking.
Franklin restoration has the tools and experience to upgrade historic windows by adding integral weatherstripping and an authentic storm window.
When historic details need to be disturbed, Franklin Restoration can save and restore the disturbed pieces or replicate them in our full-service wood shop.
In most cases (as in the picture above) the findings of our audits conclude that the greatest efficiency gains can be made in the attic. The laws of physics dictate that for every square foot of air which enters a building, one must exit. Building science teaches us that a home acts like a chimney. In winter time cold air enters a structure from down low, and exits up high. So by going to the attic, air sealing the by-passes and installing effective insulation, we limit the amount of conditioned air which can exit the building, thus reducing the amount of cold air which can enter.
Retrofits such as this do little or nothing to diminish the historical character of a home, but can do wonders for it's efficiency.
