Philadelphia Row Home Renovation Guide and Checklist

Renovating a row home in Philadelphia can be a thrilling experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Philadelphia row homes typically have a narrow footprint, so it's essential to prioritize functionality and efficiency.

The average cost of a row home renovation in Philadelphia can range from $100 to $200 per square foot, depending on the scope of the project. This cost can add up quickly, so it's crucial to create a realistic budget and stick to it.

When renovating a row home, it's essential to consider the unique architectural features of Philadelphia's historic buildings. The city's row homes often have ornate brickwork, wooden shutters, and other distinctive details that can be preserved and restored.

Philadelphia's row homes are typically built with a combination of brick, stone, and wood, which can be a challenge to work with. However, with the right expertise and materials, these unique features can be beautifully restored and preserved.

Choosing the right materials for your row home renovation is crucial to maintaining its historic feel. Matching the materials to the originals as closely as possible will help preserve the character of the house.

Material selections like colors, textures, and style can make a big difference in maintaining the home's character and feel. This is especially important when renovating an old row house.

Avoid using materials that could cause long-term moisture issues, such as cement, impermeable membranes, vinyl paints, and vapor tight insulations. These can lead to damage and mold growth over time.

Choosing the right materials for your renovation is crucial to maintaining the historic feel of your old row house.

Matching materials as close as possible to the originals will help preserve the character and feel of your home.

Material selections such as colors, textures, and style can make a big difference in maintaining your home's character and feel.

Be sure to avoid materials that could cause long-term moisture issues, like cement, impermeable membranes, vinyl paints, and vapor tight insulations.

Embracing the original structure of a building can be a great way to add character and charm to your home. Not only does it help you stay within your budget, but it also maintains the integrity of the house.

Historical buildings often have a unique story to tell, and incorporating their original use into your design can be a great way to honor their past. This is particularly important if you're renovating a warehouse or commercial building.

Original architectural structures, like decorative ceiling panels and ornate crown moulding, can be easily incorporated into your modern design. These details may be considered dated by some, but they can add a lot of charm to your home's interior.

The original architect created the floor plan and design elements for a reason, and preserving them can add value to your home. Things like original brick walls and exposed ceiling beams are design elements you won't find anywhere else.

Renovating an old house can be tempting, but it's worth considering the value of the original pieces. By embracing the original structure, you can create a truly unique and character-filled home.

A fresh viewpoint: Home Renovation and Design

Row homes have a unique challenge when it comes to space. You can't build out, but you can build up!

A 3rd-floor addition is an excellent way to add more space to your row house. It can be used for an additional bedroom, home office, children’s play area, or any other way you wish.

Building up is a great option for row homes, and it's not just about adding a new floor. You can also create a rooftop deck for gathering with family and friends.

You can add additional value to your property by building up, and it's a popular choice for row homes in cities like Philadelphia.

A loft can help you achieve the benefits of an additional floor in your rowhome. It's a versatile space that can be used as a bedroom or storage area.

Loft frames come in a wide range of designs, from basic wooden frames to completely closed-off rooms. They're a great way to create space in a row home.

Spiral staircases are a great alternative to traditional staircases, taking up much less space in your home. They're a perfect solution for row homes with narrow staircases.

By opening up your closet to the upper floor, you can create a nook for your compact spiral staircase and open up space in your main living area.

A home inspection is crucial before starting a row home renovation. This helps identify potential issues that could impact the project's success and the building's safety.

Old row houses like those in Philadelphia often have issues with water infiltration, foundation cracks, and asbestos removal. These problems need to be addressed before any renovation work begins.

You should ensure the building is strong and secure by checking the foundation, joists, and carrying beams to make sure they can carry the weight of the structure.

Expecting unforeseen situations is crucial during a home inspection. Unexpected situations arise in many renovation projects, often found after the project begins.

A detailed investigation at the design stage can help reduce the risk of extra costs. Things like opening up old walls and ceilings and finding damaged elements that need to be replaced can be a challenge.

Identifying moisture or insect damage is a serious issue that must be addressed. These problems may not be found until construction starts, making it essential to be prepared.

A fixed budget is often impossible to provide before starting a project. Contractors who claim to have a fixed budget may not be the best choice.

When you're about to embark on a home renovation, it's essential to prioritize the building itself. Fundamental renovation upgrades that reduce future costs should be done first.

Paying once for these jobs leads to long-term results. Projects such as water infiltration, foundation cracks, and asbestos removal must be done before anything else since they will impact the remainder of the renovation project.

Keep in mind that old buildings like Philadelphia row houses may have issues. You should ensure the building is strong and secure before starting the renovation.

Making sure the foundation is secure is crucial. The joists and carrying beams must be intact and able to carry the weight of the structure.

Old homes often have copper or galvanized steel pipes that can corrode over time. This can lead to leaks and other plumbing issues.

During a row house renovation, upgrading the pipes and plumbing is a crucial part of the project. The old systems will likely be removed and replaced with new ones.

Old wiring is another common issue in older homes. Modern appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators can put a strain on an old electrical system.

It's recommended to replace the electrical panel and outlets to bring the system up to modern standards. Always hire a professional electrical contractor, as working with electricity can be hazardous.

Plumbing and electrical services require regular maintenance and inspection. Try to make these services easy to reach and locate.

For another approach, see: Old Home Renovation

Water damage is a serious concern in old homes, and it's essential to be aware of the potential risks. The brick exteriors of historic Philadelphia row homes are one of the most attractive characteristics, but they require special care to prevent water damage.

Using non-breathable paint on brick is a big no-no, as it can trap water and cause cracks in low temperatures. Brick is designed to keep water away through evaporation, so it's crucial to preserve its natural properties.

Water can enter the house through tiny holes or gaps, so it's vital to inspect the roof, windows, and siding joints regularly. Consider replacing or repairing these areas to prevent further damage.

During a renovation, pay close attention to areas where water exists, such as the bathroom and kitchen, and take steps to prevent water-related damage.

Consider reading: Brick Home Renovation

Philadelphia's Historical Commission has strict procedures for historic properties, requiring approval for changes that affect the outside of the building.

If your property is designated historic or located in a historic area, you'll need to check in advance to determine if the changes you want to make will be approved.

Any changes that require a permit, such as renovations, will need to be reviewed and approved by the Historical Commission.

It's essential to research and understand these regulations before starting your row home renovation project to avoid costly delays or rework.

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Hiring the right contractor is crucial for a successful row home renovation.

Your contractor should have experience working on historic properties, which is especially important for Philadelphia row houses.

Matrix Company Solutions Corp. is a certified 203(k) contractor in Philadelphia who has experience with all types of local properties.

They maintain continual communication with you throughout the renovation process, taking you step by step from design to permits.

Their goal is to save you both time and money, and their priority is your satisfaction with the renovation.

Philadelphia row houses are a unique type of home that can be a bit tricky to renovate.

Historic homes like these often require special care and attention to preserve their original character. The RenoFi guide for Philadelphia row houses is a valuable resource for homeowners looking to remodel these homes.

Renovating a historic home can be a complex process, but with the right guide, it can be done successfully. The RenoFi guide serves as the premier resource for homeowners aiming to remodel historic homes.

Philadelphia row houses have a distinctive layout, with narrow frontages and deep lots, which can affect the renovation process.

For more insights, see: Home Renovation Plans

Outdoor spaces are a major part of your home design, and it can be challenging to have your ideal backyard in urban spaces, especially with rowhomes.

Having a defined area around your space can help with the flow of traffic and avoid a cramped feeling in your backyard. Zoning is a major part of a successful backyard.

Urban rooftop decks are a trendy way to still have your outdoor space, providing great views and plenty of space for outdoor dining, cooking, and relaxing with friends.

Outdoor spiral staircases are a great option for accessing these spaces without losing a ton of room or altering the overall exterior of your townhouse.

Outdoor spaces can be a challenge in urban areas, especially with rowhomes that have shared yards and walls.

In these cases, small backyard ideas can help make the most of the space available. Defined areas around the space can help with traffic flow and avoid a cramped feeling.

A deck or balcony design can be a great alternative to a traditional backyard. These designs have the benefits of a raised deck while still providing a solid platform for entertaining and relaxing.

Urban rooftop decks are a trendy way to have an outdoor space, offering great views and plenty of room for outdoor dining, cooking, and relaxing with friends.

A well-maintained deck is the highlight of any outdoor space. Still, nothing diminishes its beauty faster than peeling and fading.

Extreme weather conditions can lead to peeling and fading on decks, just like in Philadelphia where homeowners have to deal with harsh weather.

Decks endure a lot of wear and tear, making maintenance a must to prevent peeling and fading.

Regular cleaning and sealing can help prevent peeling and fading on decks, but it's not a one-time fix.

It's essential to address peeling and fading issues promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

By taking preventative measures and addressing issues early on, you can keep your deck looking its best and extend its lifespan.

A four-season room is a great addition to any row home, perfect for hosting, relaxing, or working. It's a flexible space that lets you enjoy the beauty of each season from inside.

In Philadelphia, where the weather changes frequently, a four-season room is a must-have. It creates a year-round retreat with added space, making it ideal for daily use.

You can use a four-season room to host guests, work from home, or simply relax and enjoy the views. The possibilities are endless, and it's a great way to expand your living space without actually expanding your home.

In a city like Philadelphia, where the weather can be unpredictable, a four-season room is a practical solution. It lets you enjoy the outdoors while staying dry and comfortable.

Renovating the kitchen and bathroom in your row home can be a fantastic way to breathe new life into these high-traffic areas. Typically, kitchen renovations can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the scope of the project.

In terms of layout, a galley kitchen is a popular choice for row homes, as it makes the most of the narrow space. This layout typically features a corridor-like design with cabinets and countertops on either side.

Updating the bathroom can also greatly impact the overall feel of your row home. According to the article, a mid-range bathroom renovation can cost between $8,000 to $15,000.

We started with a kitchen that felt cramped and didn't function well for our needs. The kitchen had been renovated not so long ago, but it still had a ton of cabinetry.

We loved hosting and having people over, so opening the kitchen up to the dining area was high on our priority list. This meant taking down a wall to create a more open layout.

The kitchen was in bad shape, and a Phase 1 renovation helped us figure out how we wanted it to look, feel, and function. It was worth living with a cobbled together space for a few months.

We removed and rearranged some of the cabinets, and moved the sink as part of the Phase 1 renovation. This gave us a better understanding of what we needed to make the kitchen work for us.

The kitchen was a bit of a mess before the renovation, but it was a great opportunity to make some changes and improvements.

Glass shower doors can instantly give your bathroom a stylish and modern feel.

They enhance the appearance of your space and provide practical benefits like easy maintenance.

There are many styles to choose from, including frameless, semi-frameless, and framed glass shower doors.

Frameless glass shower doors create a sleek and minimalist look, perfect for modern bathrooms.

Semi-frameless glass shower doors offer a more traditional look with a frame, but still maintain a sense of openness.

Framed glass shower doors provide a more classic look with a solid frame, often used in more traditional bathroom designs.

A glass shower door can also increase the value of your home, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to sell in the future.

When renovating a row home, it's essential to consider the style of the exterior to ensure it complements the surrounding architecture.

Traditional row homes often feature brick facades, which can be restored or repainted to enhance their appearance.

Many homeowners choose to add decorative shutters to their row homes, which can be painted in a contrasting color to create visual interest.

Some row homes boast ornate metalwork, such as intricate door hardware and window grilles, which can be repaired or replaced to maintain their original charm.

A popular choice for row home renovations is to update the exterior with a fresh coat of paint, often in a bold, contrasting color to make the home stand out.

In some row home neighborhoods, homeowners have successfully incorporated modern elements, such as large windows and sliding glass doors, into their exterior designs.

The addition of a decorative cornice or molding can also enhance the exterior of a row home, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Check this out: Outside Home Renovation