How long can brick buildings last?

How long can brick buildings last?

Brick Buildings Built to Last According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (IACHI), brick buildings are built to last 100 years or more. Of course, that only happens with proper maintenance and normal wear and tear.

Why are there so many brick houses in Chicago?

“Most of those brick homes are built simply because of a desire by the homeowner for brick,” he said. In Chicago, however, brick homes are also constructed because of fire and density codes. Today, because of tight lot lines in the city, you still see a lot of all-brick construction.”

Why are Chicago houses narrow?

Resting upon cedar posts sunk below the frost line, most cottages sat on narrow lots, usually 25 by 125 feet. These narrow lots permitted a row of cottages to crowd one against another and still provide ample space within the interior of a city block.

How do I find my Chicago building history?

You can find a paperback version of the survey at the Chicago Public Library, but an online version exists where you can search by street, architect, year, neighborhood, or style. If you don’t have luck there, Wicklund says the next step is to request building permits or a property’s deed records to get information.

Can a house last 200 years?

Without special care and maintenance, the maximum lifespan of a house is about 200 years. Yes, there are historical buildings that are far older, but those have received special maintenance and preventive care that few other buildings receive.

What color is Chicago brick?

They’re made from the clay from the Chicago River and when fired they can turn a range of colors, like buff yellow, salmon pink, or deep red. Chicago bricks age beautifully and take on a beautiful patina.

Why are brick houses better?

Brick protects your home from damage during particularly harsh storms. It’s fireproof, termite proof, and durable over a long period of time. In addition to this, it’s low maintenance because it doesn’t require painting, it won’t chip or wear down.

Why does Chicago have basements?

Why do Chicago Homes have Basements Cold weather above ground translates to freezing soil below the surface and the colder the air, the deeper the frozen ground. That makes room for a few light-sharing widnows into the basement and gives an extra measure of privacy to the first floor windows.

What is a 3 flat in Chicago?

So what is a three-flat and why are they so popular? The two-flat and three-flat buildings are apartments on a more intimate scale: they feature two or three apartments, generally one per floor. They are inextricably linked to Chicago’s immigrant population in the early 20th century.

How do I find out how old my building is?

Local town, county, or state tax records usually indicate the date or year a building was constructed. Historical real estate listings may include indications of building age. Census records can prove that a house was present at the time the census was taken.

How do I research my house history?

Here are 8 ways to find out the history of your home.

1. The National Registry of Historic Places.
2. Ask your Realtor.
3. Look up old census records.
4. Visit a local library, historical society or preservation foundation.
5. Explore the home and yard for clues.
6. Conduct a title search.
7. Read books on the area.
8. Ready to move?

Are there any problems with a house built in the 1970s?

And if you find single-strand aluminum wiring — common during the copper shortage of the late ’60s and early ’70s—be prepared to replace the system. Faulty connections overheat the wiring, creating (surprise!) a fire hazard. Of course, you can’t ignore the No. 1 problem of homes built in the 1970s: the decor.

What caused damp in pre-1920s buildings?

Most problems of damp in pre-1920’s buildings have been caused since the war, when cement and gypsum plaster became widely available – these two materials are responsible for over 90% of the damage that we see. They are impervious, they trap moisture and cause rot – they are death to an old house.

What is the worst enemy of old houses?

The worst enemy of old houses is we humans – it’s what we do to them, or fail to understand about them, that causes problems and makes you think you have to ‘Damp Proof’. Almost 100% of damp issues in buildings are caused by condensation, and lack of adequate ventilation.

Are there any old house problems you should familiarize yourself with?

Whether you live in an older home or are considering buying or remodeling one, there are old-house problems you should familiarize yourself with. Some may be seen as mere nuisances (charming even), but others can be downright dangerous. Before you take the plunge, get to know the signs and costs associated with the repair of some common problems.