Page 28 - State College, PA Design Guidelines

06.28.2018 •

Building Energy Savings
Energy savings are not usually achieved by replacing original building fabric
with contemporary alternatives. For example repairing, weather-stripping
and insulating an original window is more energy efficient and much less
expensive than new windows, as well as sound preservation practice. Energy
loss occurs through the replacement of single-paned wood windows with
double- or tripled-paned alternatives.

Landfill Impacts

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, building debris
constitutes around a third of all waste generated in the country. The
amount of waste can be reduced significantly if historic structures are not
demolished.

Construction Quality
CONSTRUCTION
QUALITY As a rule, the quality of early construction was higher than most
For more information about construction in the late 20th Century. Lumber came from mature trees,
construction quality in historic was properly seasoned and typically milled to “full dimensions,” providing
buildings, review the article published stronger framing and construction. Buildings also were thoughtfully detailed
by the National Trust for Historic and the finishes were generally of high quality—characteristics that owners
Preservation titled Six Practical Reasons today appreciate. The high quality of construction in earlier buildings is
to Save Old Buildings. A hard copy of therefore an asset that is impossible to replace.
the article is available in the Planning
Department.
Adaptability
Owners also recognize that floor plans of many historic properties easily
accommodate changing needs. They permit a variety of uses while retaining
the overall historic character.

22 STATE COLLEGE, PA • HERITAGE STATE COLLEGE DESIGN GUIDELINES