Maintain Original Character While Protecting Structure

Ruby Construction provides exterior renovation services for historic and older buildings in Kansas City.

When you own a historic commercial building or residential property in Kansas City, maintaining the exterior means balancing preservation of architectural details with the need to stop water intrusion, improve energy performance, and meet current code requirements. Deteriorated roofing, cracked masonry, and failing windows threaten both the structure and the character that gives your building its value. Ruby Construction renovates exteriors on historic properties using materials and methods compatible with older construction, preserving features like corbels, cornices, and original trim while addressing rot, leaks, and outdated systems that compromise the building's long-term stability.

This service involves evaluating the condition of roofing, windows, masonry, and exterior millwork, then planning repairs or replacements that match the original design and construction techniques. You work with Ruby Construction to select materials that replicate period-appropriate appearance while offering better weather resistance and durability. The renovation includes repairing or rebuilding damaged sections, installing new flashing and moisture barriers, and refinishing or repainting surfaces to restore the building's appearance without altering features protected by historic designation or local preservation guidelines in Kansas City.

If you're planning a renovation on a historic property, reach out to discuss project scope and preservation requirements.

What Historic Renovation Work Includes and Why It Matters

Ruby Construction begins by documenting the existing condition of your building's exterior, noting which elements need repair, replacement, or stabilization. Crews remove damaged materials carefully to avoid harming surrounding original features, then rebuild using techniques such as lime mortar for masonry, tongue-and-groove joinery for wood trim, and hand-formed metal flashing for roofing details. Installation methods account for the lack of vapor barriers, sheathing, and standardized framing found in newer construction, and all work follows guidelines set by local preservation boards or historic district regulations in Kansas City.

After renovation, your building sheds water properly, windows and doors operate smoothly, and the exterior looks consistent and well-maintained without losing the details that define its era. Rooms inside stay drier and more comfortable because improved roofing and windows reduce drafts and leaks. The building's curb appeal increases, which matters whether you're leasing commercial space, attracting tenants, or maintaining property value in a historic neighborhood.

This work often requires coordination with architects, preservation consultants, and local review boards to ensure compliance with design standards and code requirements. Ruby Construction focuses on exterior systems and does not handle interior finishes, mechanical systems, or structural engineering beyond what's needed to support roofing, siding, and window installation.

Property Owners Usually Have Practical Concerns

People renovating historic buildings often ask how the work will affect the building's appearance, what materials can be used without violating preservation rules, and how long the project will take.

What exterior systems does Ruby Construction renovate on historic buildings?
You can have roofing, windows, doors, masonry, and exterior trim repaired or replaced. Ruby Construction works with materials and techniques appropriate for the building's age and style, and coordinates with preservation requirements in Kansas City historic districts.
How does Ruby Construction preserve original details during renovation?
Crews remove damaged sections carefully, document and replicate decorative elements, and use hand tools or period-appropriate methods to avoid altering features like moldings, brackets, or masonry patterns. Salvaged materials are reused whenever possible.
Why do historic buildings need specialized renovation methods?
Older construction uses different framing, materials, and assembly techniques than modern buildings, so standard repair methods can cause moisture problems or structural stress. Historic renovation methods account for how the building was originally built and ensure new work is compatible.
When should I start planning a historic building renovation?
Start planning when you notice leaks, deteriorating trim, cracked masonry, or failing windows that threaten the structure or violate code requirements. Ruby Construction can evaluate your building and help you prioritize repairs based on urgency and budget during a site visit in Kansas City.
What happens if my building is in a local historic district?
You'll need approval from a local preservation board before starting work. Ruby Construction provides documentation, material samples, and project plans to support your application and ensures the renovation meets district guidelines.

Ruby Construction evaluates your building's condition and preservation requirements during the consultation to develop a renovation plan that protects both structure and character. Contact the team to review your historic property in Kansas City.