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Some interesting construction

cda, yes interesting pics, the arches are amazing

Q. Do you think our abestos abatement regulations or other code regulations prevent buildings like those depicted in the pictures from being rehabed?

pc1
 
Regulations don't prevent buildings like these from being rehabbed, but they may make it too expensive for a reasonable payback. Historic restoration tax credits might help some.
 
Pcinspector1 said:
cda, yes interesting pics, the arches are amazingQ. Do you think our abestos abatement regulations or other code regulations prevent buildings like those depicted in the pictures from being rehabed?

pc1
Add in lead paint.

The need to deal with these materials does add cost to the rehab, other issues include deteriorated structural systems, obsolete HVAC systems, obsolete electrical systems, failing plumbing systems, room layouts not sized or arranged for modern architectural practices that use a more open space plan. These buildings are typically energy inefficient.

The deterioration may not be readily appearant as in the case of the UVA lawn balcony collapse that killed a woman a few years back--this was one of the original buildings designed by Thomas Jefferson and a showpiece of the university. An Iron bar failed in tension after a couple hundred years of deterioration.

The difficulties and resultant costs in replacing the obsolete and deteriorated systems while maintaining the historic fabric makes it more economical to abandon and start over.

It is like dealing with old cars--they can be restored and upgraded, but then you still have a vehicle that lacks many modern safety and convenience features. And a good restoration costs several times what a new comperable car with modern features built in does.

Rehabilitation and restoration of old buildings, like that of old cars is a labor of love not profit.
 
I sure wouldn't want my tax dollars spent to rehab those buildings for the architecture...maybe as a Gitmo replacement...
 
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