Preserve the Past, Protect the Future: Exterior Upgrades for Historic Homes in Michigan

Metro Detroit is home to some of Michigan’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods — from the waterfront estates of Grosse Pointe to the tree-lined streets of Ann Arbor’s Old West Side. These homes were built with timeless architecture and enduring craftsmanship, but as they age, maintaining both their beauty and performance becomes a challenge.

At Lake Effect Exteriors, we specialize in helping homeowners restore and protect historic properties without compromising the charm that makes them special. Whether you're considering roofing, siding, or window upgrades, our team offers thoughtful solutions that respect your home’s history while improving its durability, energy efficiency, and curb appeal.

Why Historic Home Upgrades Require a Specialized Approach

Many homeowners seeking historic home exterior upgrades in Michigan face the challenge of preserving charm while boosting durability. Older homes often include materials and construction methods that aren’t common today — like original cedar siding, clay tile roofs, or wood-framed windows. While these details give historic homes their character, they can also lead to:

• Higher energy bills

• Water damage from outdated roofing or flashing

• Drafts and heat loss from aging windows

• Paint peeling or wood rot on exterior siding

• Structural wear beneath the surface

That’s why it’s so important to choose contractors who understand the nuances of historic architecture, know local building codes, and can recommend materials that preserve the look you love.

Siding That Honors the Original Style

Many older homes were originally built with wood lap siding, cedar shakes, or stucco, which can deteriorate over time if not properly maintained. At Lake Effect Exteriors, we help homeowners upgrade with materials that maintain architectural authenticity while offering long-term protection. We proudly offer two industry-leading options that meet this challenge:

LP® SmartSide® Siding

As a preferred LP SmartSide contractor, we install engineered wood siding that’s designed to mimic the look of classic clapboard and cedar while offering:

• Deep wood-grain texture ideal for replicating lap siding in homes throughout Burns Park, Plymouth Historic District, and Old West Side

• Resistance to rot, termites, and extreme weather

• Lightweight panels for easier, more precise installation

• A wide range of profiles to match historic styles

LP SmartSide is a great choice for Ann Arbor’s Old West Side, Grosse Pointe Park, and other neighborhoods where architectural integrity matters.

James Hardie® Fiber Cement Siding

Known for both its strength and historic accuracy, James Hardie siding is a go-to solution for homes in Boston-Edison, Indian Village, and Downtown Plymouth that require a refined look with added fire and moisture resistance.

• Available in HardiePlank®, HardieShingle®, and HardiePanel® styles

• Excellent for mimicking original wood lap siding and shake aesthetics

• Long-lasting color with ColorPlus® Technology

• Exceptional performance against freeze-thaw cycles and moisture

Both LP SmartSide and James Hardie are ideal for preserving curb appeal while giving your home the strength to stand up to Michigan weather.

Roofing That Respects the Era (While Performing Like New)

Whether your historic home has slate, wood shakes, or standing seam metal, we’ll help you assess its condition and determine the best course of action. In many cases, newer materials can replicate the look of originals while adding weather resistance and longevity.

We work with a range of roofing solutions — including asphalt shingles designed to mimic traditional styles, composite slate alternatives, and premium metal options all selected with your home’s age and architecture in mind.

Updating Windows Without Sacrificing Charm

Windows are one of the most defining features of historic homes — and also one of the most common sources of energy loss. If your windows are drafty, difficult to open, or visibly deteriorating, we can help you find historically appropriate replacements that maintain the appearance of divided lites, wood frames, and original openings.

Whether you're restoring a Colonial Revival in Birmingham, a Craftsman in Ann Arbor’s Old West Side, or a Tudor in Grosse Pointe Park, we offer tailored window solutions designed to preserve your home’s character while improving comfort and efficiency.

We partner with manufacturers who offer custom historic window solutions, including wood-clad options and energy-efficient glass that meet today’s performance standards while fitting seamlessly into your home’s original look.

Our Historic Renovation Approach

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our team takes a collaborative, preservation-minded approach to every project. When you work with Lake Effect Exteriors, you can expect:

• In-depth consultation and home inspection

• Respect for local building codes and preservation guidelines

• Custom recommendations based on architectural style and era

• Access to modern materials with classic aesthetics

• Skilled craftsmanship focused on longevity and historical accuracy

Whether you’re restoring a century-old Victorian in Grosse Pointe or updating a mid-century modern in Ann Arbor Hills, we’re here to help you protect your investment while keeping your home’s story alive.

Proudly Serving Michigan’s Historic Neighborhoods

Lake Effect Exteriors works with homeowners across Southeast Michigan, including:

• "The Pointes" (Grosse Pointe , Grosse Pointe Farms, Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe Shores, Grosse Pointe Woods)

• Ann Arbor (Old West Side, Burns Park, Lower Town)

• Birmingham, Plymouth, Royal Oak, and Ferndale

• Historic Detroit districts like Indian Village and Boston-Edison

Let’s Preserve the Past — and Prepare for the Future

If you’re ready to update your home’s exterior without sacrificing the details that make it unique, contact Lake Effect Exteriors today. We’ll guide you through every step of the process with care, craftsmanship, and respect for your home’s history.

Call us at (313) 518-4258 or Visit LakeEffectExteriors.homes to schedule your consultation