Building Doctor Program Coming to Vermilion on April 11

 

         Due to a general lack of proper maintenance, historic structures often come with a host of unforeseen problems.  Nonetheless, the integrity with which these structures were built and the quality of the craftsmanship is often unparalleled in today’s world.  If you own an older house or building or are simply interested in the preservation of historic structures, you can gain valuable information by attending the upcoming Building Doctor Clinic in Vermilion.  The Ohio Historical Society’s Building Doctors are specifically trained to teach those who own historic structures how to recognize and solve some of the most common problems associated with maintaining those structures and how to make informed decisions about repairs and improvements. 

According to the Ohio Historical Society’s web site, “Each Building Doctor clinic begins with a free seminar on topics like peeling paint and failing plaster, wet basements, deteriorating masonry, windows, wood issues, and bringing buildings built before 1955 up to date without sacrificing historic integrity.  On the following day, the Building Doctors make the rounds of ailing buildings within five miles of the city center where the seminar is held to examine problems and prescribe cures.”  The site visits are free, but only about 10 inspections will be performed.  Hence, it is imperative that interested parties register for the seminar and then make an appointment with the Building Doctor for a site visit.  The Building Doctors will visit any pre-1955 building including schools, churches, factories, stores, offices, farm buildings, and homes.

The Building Doctors only give six programs per year.  On April 11, they will be visiting Vermilion and presenting their program at the Ritter Public Library at 7:00 PM.  Site visits will take place on Friday, April 12 from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM.  Registration for the seminar and the site visits is can be completed online at www.ohpo.org/gis/BDindex.htm or by calling 1-800-499-2470.  The Building Doctor Program is being co-sponsored by Main Street Vermilion, Inc. and the Sandusky/Erie County Community Foundation.  Further information about the program in Vermilion should be directed to Linda Tallitsch at 440-963-0772.  If you cannot attend the program in Vermilion, the Building Doctors will be visiting Port Clinton in September.  Alternately, the Building Doctors will make a ‘Virtual Site Visit’ if you have one or two technical questions that you would like to ask.  Questions should be directed to the Building Doctors at ohpo@ohiohistory.org.