Careful Work That Honors What Was Built First

Historic home renovations that preserve character while upgrading function in Gainesville, Florida.

When you renovate a historic home in Gainesville, you need someone who understands how to work with plaster walls, old joists, and windows that do not match modern dimensions. Done W Right Painting & Renovation specializes in preserving original features while upgrading systems and finishes, using careful planning to protect trim, flooring, and architectural details that give the home its character.

The work often involves matching old materials, reinforcing framing without removing original elements, and coordinating with architects to meet preservation guidelines. In Gainesville's historic neighborhoods, permits and compliance are handled properly to ensure work meets local standards. You get a home that functions better without losing the details that made it worth keeping.

If you are planning a renovation in a historic Gainesville home, reach out to Done W Right Painting & Renovation to discuss your project and review what can be preserved.

How Old Homes Get Updated Without Losing Themselves

Your contractor begins by assessing the condition of original materials and identifying what can stay, what needs reinforcement, and what must be replaced. In Gainesville homes, this often means repairing old wood floors, stabilizing plaster, and working around windows and doors that were built before standard sizing existed. New systems like plumbing and electrical are routed carefully to avoid damaging original finishes.

Once the work is complete, you will notice floors that feel solid but retain their original wood, trim that has been repaired instead of replaced, and walls that sit flat without losing plaster medallions or molding. Rooms function better while still looking like they belong to the house.

The crew uses traditional fastening methods where needed, sources materials that match original construction, and keeps dust and debris contained to protect finishes in other rooms. Done W Right Painting & Renovation coordinates with preservation boards and architects when required, ensuring that upgrades meet guidelines without unnecessary delays.

Homeowners with historic properties often have questions about what can be changed, how long the work takes, and whether original materials can be saved. Here are answers to the most common concerns.

What Homeowners Ask Before Starting Work

What makes renovating a historic home different from a standard remodel?
Historic homes often have materials and construction methods that require special handling, and many are subject to preservation rules that limit what can be changed. Your contractor will need to work within those guidelines while updating systems and finishes.
How do you update plumbing and electrical without tearing out walls?
Wiring and pipes can often be routed through basements, attics, or closets to avoid damaging plaster or trim. When walls must be opened, your contractor will patch and match finishes so repairs blend in with the rest of the room.
Why do permits take longer for historic properties?
Many historic homes are located in districts that require review by preservation boards before work can begin. This adds time to the approval process, but Done W Right Painting & Renovation handles submissions and coordinates with local authorities in Gainesville.
What happens if original materials are damaged beyond repair?
Your contractor will source materials that match the original as closely as possible, using reclaimed wood, period-appropriate hardware, or custom millwork when needed. The goal is to maintain the look and feel of the home even when parts must be replaced.
How long does a typical historic home renovation take?
Timelines vary depending on the scope of work and permit requirements, but most projects take longer than standard remodels due to the care needed to preserve original features. Your contractor will provide a schedule after assessing the home and reviewing local guidelines.

If you own a historic home in Gainesville and want upgrades that respect its character, contact Done W Right Painting & Renovation to review your project and discuss what can be preserved.