We recently partnered with Esther, a homeowner in the Harrisburg Historic District, to solve a persistent and damaging issue. Her home featured a porch with a failing rubber roof situated directly above her kitchen. After years of exposure, the roof had begun to leak, threatening the interior of her home.
Because this property is located in a designated historical district, every renovation required strict adherence to local codes and architectural standards. We took the lead on this process, representing Esther at the HARB (Historical Architectural Review Board) meeting to ensure our design was fully approved and compliant with city standards.
Our goal was to transform a structural headache into a beautiful, functional space that felt original to the 19th-century home.
Hand-Carved Balusters: To maintain neighborhood continuity, we hand-carved cedar “gingerbread” balusters to perfectly match the original woodwork on the adjoining property.
Low-Maintenance Longevity: We wrapped the new roof structure in Azek trim boards, providing a classic look with the modern benefit of rot resistance.
Structural Solution: We designed and built a new roof over the existing porch to redirect water and create a protected, usable outdoor living space.
In addition to the porch, we addressed Esther’s original windows, which were drafty and inoperable. To meet architectural standards while improving energy efficiency, we installed Harvey aluminum-clad wood replacement windows.
We finished the exterior with custom white aluminum capping. This not only preserves the wood but ensures the windows remain beautiful and maintenance-free for years to come.
What was once a source of stress is now Esther’s favorite place to relax. The porch has been transformed into a peaceful spot to “chit-chat” and unwind after a long day. We are proud to have preserved a piece of Harrisburg’s history while providing our client with lasting peace of mind.
516 Market St. Lemoyne, PA 17043
(717) 224 - 9964 Nate@wallsremodelinggroup.com
