Its always a good idea to read the rules before starting any project.  With that in mind, here are links to some “rules of thumb” for how to do things in a generally preservation-sensitive way.

“Dr. Luce’s Basic Prescriptions for Preservation” is a list of some 19 core maxims on proceeding on any preservation task -- from renovating your house to revitalizing a community.  These include simple directives such as “ Don't sandblast anything--ever!” to more involved statements such as “Keep as much as possible of your city's plan - it is as important as its buildings.  Respect the size, scale, and relationship of existing buildings.  When designing a streetscape, start with what is already in your town, not something from another city or Main Street in Disneyland.”  Dr. Ray Luce, author of these prescriptions, was formerly the Ohio State Historic Preservation Officer.

One well-known list was issued some years back by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and concentrates on “10 Ways to Support Historic Preservation.”  This page on the website of the Historic Preservation of Arkansas profiles these rules.  These maxims are more general, and speak to everyday ways to support local, state and national preservation efforts.

Then there are the granddaddies of all preservation rules, the Secretary of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, including versions for Preservation, Rehabilitation, Restoration and Reconstruction.  Click here for the new website of the National Park Service which lays out these standards and accompanying guidelines in an easy-to-read and follow format.