What are the differences between preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and reconstruction?
Preservation, restoration, rehabilitation and reconstruction are the four treatments for historic properties recognized by the Secretary of the Interior. Preservation is the preferred treatment because it sustains the existing form, integrity and materials of a historic property. The work, including preliminary measures to protect and stabilize property, generally focuses upon the ongoing maintenance and repair of historic materials and features rather than extensive replacement and new construction. Rehabilitation uses preservation to make possible a compatible use for the property through repair and alterations. Unlike preservation, rehabilitation can include additions to accommodate a new use, so long as the addition is sensitive to the historic character of the property. In a restoration project a particular period in the property s history is chosen and the form, features and character of the property as it appeared at that time are maintained. Restoration may include the removal