Sign in and get your program. Stop by the cafeteria for conversation with attendees and enjoy a snack and coffee.

Phil Polter

Repair, don't replace! Most wood windows can be repaired and will outlast your homeownership. Learn how wood windows are made, function, and can be as energy efficient as any new insulated window. All it takes are a few simple tricks and best practices for repair and maintenance.

John McEwan

Is there life left in your wood floors? John will walk you through the best approaches to preserve and restore original wood flooring.

Wouldn't a quality, exterior hand railing or fencing be a nice addition to enhance your property? How about updating your interior railings? We can do it all. Our staff is well trained in a variety of different specialties. Our trademark is using old-world techniques combined with new-age advances so that we can give you the best quality welding construction that will last you a lifetime.

Eric Hempleman

We have been charged with a great task; preserve the statuesque architecture in this beautiful and historic city. Every year we lose a few historic roofs that we can never get back. Poor salesman tactics, a genuine misunderstanding of the roof types, and reckless contractors can lead to these roofs being thrown into the dump. We can stop this trend through education on these systems. Slate and tile roofs have stood the test of time and can be maintained to last centuries. These roofs are not just for charm but for cost efficiency in the long run as well. Join us as we discuss the different types of historic roofs in our area, how to maintain them, and what to watch for when selecting a contractor. We will explore special tools, slate and tile types, and everything you need to know about preserving these roofs for the next generation.

Rebecca Weber and Mike & Cindy Cason

We will explore current market conditions and walk attendees through the buying process utilizing 203k Renovation Financing, specifically in Historic Districts. We will also cover How and why to inspect the physical condition and discuss the important topic of proper insurance during and after the construction process.

Two case studies will be shown – one on a current project currently underway in the Dayton Street Historic District in OTR and the other on Why you should never sweat the replacement cost.

Phil Polter

Learn from our window expert, Phil, how historic windows are put together and how they work. Phil will also show basic maintenance and common repairs, such as roping and reglazing. Come learn and even try your hand at this demonstration.

John McEwan

As we all know, maintaining and repairing the plaster in our historic homes can be a challenge. Come learn how to deal with fixing basic plaster issues such as mending cracks and restoring damaged plaster in your historic home.

Don Heinrich Tolzmann

Explore the rich legacy of German immigrants who shaped the cultural, economic, and architectural landscape of the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region. This session traces the waves of German settlement in the 19th and early 20th centuries, highlighting their lasting impact on local traditions, neighborhoods, institutions, and industries. 

David Lamb

Learn about all aspects of brick and masonry from this veteran mason. The session will demonstrate common brick repairs and discuss the importance of using historically appropriate techniques and building materials when conducting masonry repairs on your historic home.

Eric Hempleman

Stop the Stigma. Every homeowner who says there are box gutters on their home says it like they have a death sentence. A lack of contractors providing re-lining services and a push for aluminum gutters hanging by an aluminum-wrapped 1X6 board have given box gutters a bad name. The reality is that the box gutter is far superior to an aluminum seamless gutter. The volume of water they allow, the solid platform for maintenance they provide, and the architectural detail they radiate are all reasons to save these systems. Come and explore the box gutter with a regional specialist and see that they provide a lot of benefits and that they are sorely misunderstood. We will dive into the framed structure, the seams, general maintenance, the obvious signs that something is wrong, and so much more as we work together to preserve these unique systems.

Beth Johnson and Raina Regan- Cincinnati Preservation 

Why do we preserve, and how do we do it effectively? This session explores the critical reasons behind preserving historic, cultural, and natural resources—from safeguarding community identity to promoting sustainability and education. Whether you're new to preservation or looking to deepen your understanding, this session offers a concise overview of its purpose, impact, and methods.

Peter J. Grady

Pete will share some of his experience regarding tools and techniques that may have become lost & forgotten. Pete will provide resources, references and bring a few tools to show too! 

TASTE - Enjoy a free lunch of specialties from local restaurants.

TALK - Visit with vendors, presentation craftspeople, museums, and historical organizations.

TASTE - Enjoy a free lunch of specialties from local restaurants.

TALK - Visit with vendors, presentation craftspeople, museums, and historical organizations.

Jim & Beverly McPhail

We’ll show you how to research your house and property at the courthouse using deeds and other documents. We’ll cover obstacles you may encounter and ways to get around them. We’ll also give tips and provide resources for researching the people who once lived in your home.

Kaitlin Bryan

Test your knowledge of historic preservation and Kentucky history with a fun filled hour of trivia! Prizes will be awarded to participants for their knowledge and enthusiasm!

Ken Hughes - Decorative Restorations

Preserving historic homes often means balancing authenticity with practicality. This session explores the use of alternative materials in restoration and repair, examining when and how modern substitutes can be used without compromising a home's historic character.

Will Schottelkotte

This presentation will cover a variety of topics pertaining to the repair and restoration of what is the gateway and showpiece of a home's exterior. Topics will include assessing conditions, framing, flooring, columns, balustrades, soffit and ceiling, trim, etc.

Considering doing some work on your historic building? You may qualify for an up to 30% KY tax credit for homeowners or an up to 20% tax credit for income-producing properties. An overview of the State and Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit programs’ eligibility, submittal process, standards, and best practices. Rehabilitation Tax Credits are voluntary, financial incentives to encourage investment in historic properties.

Beth Johnson

Does your house need to be painted? Do you not know where to start with picking paint colors? Then this session is for you. We will go over the basics and history of paint, some basics on paint preparation, and then go over what colors go with what styles. An added bonus, bring your house and get advice on what colors would work for you.

Jennifer Williams and Kaitlin Bryan

Have your run out of space or have you ever wondered what could be built on that empty lot in your neighborhood? Jennifer and Katilin will share their expertise on infill design and additions, and construction when it comes to local design review and national standards. They will share local examples.