[MassHistPres] Use of Non-traditional and Synthetic Materials

[Sullivan, Charles M.]

The Cambridge Historical Commission has taken a selective and somewhat permissive approach to synthetics in historic districts.

We advocate for fiberglass gutters over wood. They come in a traditional profile, have almost 4x the capacity, and appear to alleviate the maintenance problems of wood. Copper, if painted, is also acceptable. K-Style aluminum gutters are flimsy and have a non-traditional profile.

Common lumber today offers limited longevity and the natural alternatives are either punitively expensive or questionably sourced. We allow PVC (Azek and equivalent) replacement trim in near ground contact situations (like porch skirting) and elements exposed to the weather (like fascias, balustrades, and unprotected steps). On the same principle we've allowed PVC fences to replace wood. Manufacturers specify, and we require, that PVC elements be painted. Shiny plastic fences ar4e not allowed.

The Commission also provides preservation funding to affordable housing agencies. These projects (which are often the equivalent of new construction) almost never involve designated properties, so don't require certificates of appropriateness. Because the goal is affordability and long-term sustainability, we've allowed cementitious siding products like Hardie board and high-efficiency windows that mimic but don't replicate historic sash patterns.

Since we're not allowed to post attachments I'd be happy to email copies of our statement of practices (not a policy because not formally adopted). It contains photos of representative projects.

Charles Sullivan
___________________________
Charles Sullivan, Executive Director
Cambridge Historical Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, Mass.  02139
617 349-4684

From: MassHistPres <masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu> On Behalf Of Heidi Fieldston via MassHistPres
Sent: Monday, August 7, 2023 2:55 PM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] Use of Non-traditional and Synthetic Materials

Greetings:

We have a question about the policies of other Historical Commissions concerning the use of non-traditional and synthetic materials in new construction in historic districts:  Are they allowed?  Are there limitations on materials?  Does the context make a difference, e.g., dense vs. more spread-out?


Thank you for your response.


Heidi Fieldston, Commissioner
Dedham Historic Districts Commission and Historical Commission
hfieldston at mac.com<mailto:hfieldston at mac.com>
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