Articles
Built to Last? Why My 1775 Farmhouse Still Stands Strong Without Rebar or Ties
My 1775 home in Phoenixville doesn’t have a concrete foundation or steel rebar—it rests on stones from the Schuylkill River and timber cut centuries ago. In an era of strict building codes and Simpson ties, are we over-engineering today's homes? Or was the lumber used by pioneers simply superior? Join me as we explore the structural tug-of-war between old-growth materials and modern safety.
What Does "Grandfathered" Actually Mean for Your Home Renovation?
Renovating an older home comes with a common fear: will touching one room force me to update the entire house to modern standards? The answer lies in understanding what is truly 'grandfathered' and what isn't. Residential Designer Robert Smith breaks down the reality of building codes, identifying the specific triggers for mandatory upgrades—from egress windows to stair railings—so you can budget accurately and avoid costly surprises.