Apex recently began work on a charming old Swampscott Colonial, which is badly in need of a facelift. Our goal is to give new life to the tired exterior using modern materials that will relieve the owners of maintenance headaches, while preserving the historic integrity of the structure.

This Colonial began its life in a different location, at a fraction of its current size. Two moves and a series of additions had already given it enough space for a modern family, but when we arrived it was still being dragged down by the past.

The home, like many built in the 1700s and 1800’s, was erected using post and beam construction, an old-fashioned building method that has long since been abandoned. This means that Apex carpenters will not only need to focus on beautifying the structure but on shoring up sagging walls and rickety floors with engineered wood beams to make sure the structure is solid and strong. We’ll also be updating the home’s electrical systems to improve function and safety.

Part of the challenge we’ll face working on this home will be to modernize it, without stripping this old beauty of its character. To do this we’ll remove the rotting old yellow cedar clapboards and replace them with beautiful James Hardi fiber cement siding. This siding is built to endure the elements, harsh New England winters and salt air, with little maintenance, while still offering the aesthetic appeal of wood. Exterior trim will be updated with weather-proof PVC, which also looks like wood, without the maintenance.

Our carpenters will also do some work on the interior of the house, refreshing an office that was passed by during the last round of interior renovations.

Stay tuned for updates on our progress as we buff and polish this centuries-old house and turn her into a modern home.