Philadelphia

Rowhouse Manual
A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR HOMEOWNERS
Rachel Simmons Schade, AIA, Schade and Bolender Architects
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Office of Housing and Community Development
Philadelphia City Planning Commission

City of Philadelphia
SPECIAL THANKS TO
Steering Committee
Laura M. Spina, Project Manager
Jonathan Farnham
Adrian Fine
John Andrew Gallery
Eva Gladstein
Marty Gregorski
Patrick Hauck
Gary Jastrzab
Bennur Koksuz
Lauri Michel
Tania Nikolic
Carolyn Placke
Rick Sauer
David Schaaf
Alan Urek
Scott Wilds
Deanda Wilson

Stakeholders
City of Philadelphia
City Planning Commission
Commerce Department
Historical Commission
Office of Housing & Community Development
Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia
JRB Historic Restoration LLC
Mount Airy U.S.A.
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations
Project H.O.M.E.

Project Team
Schade and Bolender Architects
Gallini Hemmann Inc., Graphic Design
James S. Russell, Editor
Jeffrey Cohen, Consultant
Michael Grant, Consultant
Elise Vider, Consultant

All photos by Schade and Bolender unless otherwise credited

All sketches by Rachel S. Schade and Susan J. Hadden
Special thanks to phillyhistory.org for the use of images from the Philadelphia City Archive.

© The City of Philadelphia 2008

FORWARD 2
INTRODUCTION 3

THE PHILADELPHIA ROWHOUSE 5

Colonial to early 19th Century 6
Mid to late 19th Century 7
20th Century 8

OUTSIDE THE ROWHOUSE 9

Exterior Wall 10
Insulation, Vapor Barriers & Air Quality 12
Porches, Steps, & Stoops 13
Windows 14
Up on the Roof 16
Plantings & Gardens 18
Parking 20

INSIDE THE ROWHOUSE 21

First Floor 22
Kitchens & Laundry 24
Stairs 26
Bedrooms & Closets 27
Bathrooms 28
Flexible Spaces 30
Basements 31
Interior Materials 32
Mechanical Systems 34
Structural Considerations 36

YOUR ROWHOUSE 37
The House is Too Small—A Case Study 38
The House to Too Large—A Case Study 39
Maintaining A Rowhouse 40
Renovations & Additions 42
Permits & Codes 44
Resources 46
Accessible housing, building materials, carbon monoxide, community
gardens, definitions, energy conservation, fire safety, funding for home
repairs, historic preservation, housing counseling, lead poisoning,
radon, safety, street trees, trash & recycling, windows
 Forward
In 2003, the City of Philadelphia was selected to Philadelphia is a city of rowhouses. Their constant
participate in the National Trust for Historic revitalization and adaptation illustrates the viability
Preservation’s Preservation Development Initiative of the city. We don’t cook in basement fireplaces or
(PDI). Funded by the John S. and James L. Knight use backyard privies as the earliest rowhouse residents
Foundation, PDI focused on demonstrating the did, but the houses have proven to be so adaptable
importance of preservation as a core component that we’ve been able to make them congenial to
of neighborhood revitalization. the 21st century, even with vastly different family
A Comprehensive Preservation Assessment noted structures, social ideals, and technology. The intent
that almost all of the neighborhoods in Philadelphia, of this manual is to help residents value the history
from Mount Airy to Pennsport, are defined by their and legacy of the rowhouse and its future as a
rowhouse streetscapes. As a building type, the rowhouse comfortable, community-enhancing, energy-efficient
offers many advantages, but when neglected or poorly place in which to live.
maintained, it deprives homeowners of value. It also
affects the homes nearby. This manual is one of
many projects aimed at celebrating the Philadelphia
rowhouse, helping people understand their value
(in terms of both history and livability), and aiding GARY J. JASTRZAB,
rowhouse inhabitants in adapting and maintaining Acting Executive Director
them as a great model for 21st century urban living. Philadelphia City Planning Commission
LIVESEARCHMAPS, ©2007 MICROSOFT

2 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Introduction
What is a Rowhouse?
Philadelphia is largely a rowhouse city, where usually
only church spires, a few old factories and imposing
institutional buildings rise above the low skyline. The
variety of rowhouses is extraordinary, ranging from
tiny plain-fronted Trinities to bay-windowed and
ginger-breaded Victorian extravaganzas. They have been

PHILLYHISTORY.ORG
designed by anonymous Colonial craftsmen and the
city’s most distinguished architects. They have housed
Philadelphians from all walks of life, from workers living

HABS
near factories in Port Richmond, to the social elite
who clustered around elegant Rittenhouse Square.
The Philadelphia rowhouse, most simply, is a one-
to four-story house occupying a narrow street frontage
and attached to adjacent houses on both sides. It away from the dense downtown, and rowhouse
evolved early in the city’s history. While William Penn’s construction tapered off as the population started to
surveyor envisioned gracious detached homes on green level and fall in the mid 20th century. The population
blocks and squares in 1682, speculators quickly divided of Philadelphia County has declined since the 1950’s
those blocks near the Delaware River with narrow due to a loss of jobs, a search for safer and affordable
streets, and erected on them the city’s first rowhouses: neighborhoods, and suburban development. In the
tiny, more affordable “Trinity” or band-box houses that past twenty years, downtown Philadelphia has grown
served people working in the city’s burgeoning port. in population and value as people rediscover city
What Penn called the “greene countrie towne” was life and see value in rowhouse neighborhoods.
subdivided into the hierarchy of street and building
types that we enjoy today. What Makes the Rowhouse So Special?
Philadelphia rowhouses outnumber all other housing The rowhouse is enjoying a renaissance. Philadelphians
types as they have always been the most space-efficient young and old are seeing the rowhouse as a sensible
and cost-effective way to provide homes for a rapidly solution to living in town, providing an opportunity
growing industrial city. Businesses could thrive if to own and maintain a home, and have a much smaller
their workers could easily get to work, which is why footprint on the environment, literally and figuratively.
most rowhouses are found clustered around factories People are attracted to city life; young adults are seeking
and the active waterfronts. Some of the very oldest a wide variety of social, recreational, and career
rowhouses still exist in Queen Village and other opportunities, while mature adults seek the same
eastern neighborhoods. Growth of the city brought but appreciate the opportunity to “age in place” and
larger lot sizes further to the west toward the Schuylkill become less dependent on driving. People who have
River, and along the main transportation routes that grown up in the city, like the generations before them,
extended Philadelphia to its land-locked areas to the see their property values rising as others move in, and
west and north. Much of the rich fabric of housing build on the support that the security of a valuable
near now inactive industry is still occupied, especially property can provide. The many variations of rowhouses
in the river wards. By the mid 19th century, rowhouses can provide an affordable way of living within reach
stretched from river to river, displacing former of the heart of the city in houses whose very density
industrial sites along the Schuylkill. As transportation makes community much more immediate
technology advanced, housing patterns grew out and than in car-focused suburbs.

www.philaplanning.org 3
 IMAGES THS PAGE COUTRESTY OF PHILLYHISTORY.ORG

4
Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual
WWW.PHILLYHISTORY.ORG
 The Philadelphia
Rowhouse
There were three significant eras in the growth of Philadelphia, and the following
sections describe the types of rowhouses that were common in each. Small, medium
and large houses from each period are identified. While your house may not match
these diagrams exactly, you may be able to find some similarities and be able to identify
the period in which it was built. Locations identified are neighborhoods with large
numbers of a given type. The square footage sizes are for typical houses.
There are many variations on each type of rowhouse; some remain as originally built,
others have been remodeled to greater or lesser extents to meet contemporary needs.

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Colonial & Early 19th Century Rowhouses
SMALL MEDIUM LARGE

Known as: Trinity, Bandbox, Known as: Double Trinity, Known as: Federal or
Father, Son & Holy Ghost London House Georgian Town House
Size: 400-600 sq. ft. Size: 1,000-1,800 sq. ft. Size: 3,000-7,000 sq. ft.
Location: Society Hill, Queen Location: Society Hill, Queen Location: Society Hill, Queen
Village, Old City, Kensington Village, Old City, Kensington, Village, Old City, Kensington
Defining Characteristics: Washington Square Defining Characteristics:
One entry, winder stair, no Defining Characteristics: Three to four stories, with
running water, community Three stories plus basement, narrower but deep extension to
“necessaries”, often mid-block gable roof (ridge is parallel to reach the back of the main house;
with no street frontage front of house), two fireplaces, first floor two rooms deep,
rear yard with access then offset to allow more light
into main volume

6 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Mid to Late 19th Century Rowhouses
SMALL MEDIUM LARGE

Known as: Workingman’s house Known as: Streetcar town house Known as: Urban mansion,
Size: 1,000-1,600 sq. ft. Size: 2,200-2,500 sq. ft. townhouse
on two floors on 3 floors Size: 3,000-6,000 sq. ft.
Location: Center City, South Location: North Philadelphia, on 3-4 floors
Philadelphia, North Philadelphia, South Philadelphia, Location: Rittenhouse Square,
West Philadelphia, Manayunk West Philadelphia North Broad Street, South
Defining Characteristics: Defining Characteristics: Broad Street
Entry vestibule, shed kitchen, Front porches, bay windows, Defining Characteristics:
shallow closets, indoor plumbing, tall ceilings, elaborate woodwork Three to four stories, 18-22 feet
central heating wide, carriage houses, two stairs,
multiple formal rooms, rooms
for live-in help, skylights over
stairwells, lightwells, ornate
fireplaces and paneling

www.philaplanning.org 7
20th Century Rowhouses
SMALL MEDIUM LARGE

Known as: Subsidized Known as: Porchfront Known as: Postwar townhouses,
Public Housing Size: 1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Airlites, Straight-throughs
Size: 1,000 – 1,200 sq. ft. Location: East Falls, Size: 1,500 – 1,800 sq. ft.
Location: Gray’s Ferry, Eastwick, Francisville, North Broad Street, on two floors
North Philadelphia West Oak Lane Location: Southwest Philadelphia,
Defining Characteristics: Defining Characteristics: Northeast Philadelphia,
Two- story, steel windows, no One-car garage at lower level, Roxborough, East Mount Airy
basement, shared exterior space elevated front yard and entry, Defining Characteristics: One-car
two-story, front porch, bay garage at lower level, elevated
at second floor, shared back front yard and entry, two-story,
deck between wings sometimes with front porch

8 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Outside the Rowhouse
Most rowhouse maintenance problems start on the outside, so being aware of
potential trouble areas is important. It is also necessary to understand why specific
elements of the exterior were built, so that you can be careful to replicate the
function of the detail—if not the style.
Often it is tempting to undertake a quick fix, but it is important to understand the
potential benefit of spending a bit more to maintain the individual character of
the house, and the rowhouse block as a whole. The Resource Section on page 46
offers sources for funding many house repairs for qualified homeowners.

.rowhousemanual.com 9
Exterior Wall
Next to neglect, water is your rowhouse’s
worst enemy.
BRICK is ubiquitous in Philadelphia. Most of it
came from local manufacturers; it was plentiful and
inexpensive. The outside surface of the brick is the
most durable because it was exposed to high heat when
it was fired. The interior material is much softer, and
will wear quickly when exposed to weather. Brick
is porous, which means a small amount of water
gets inside the brick, but it also dries readily. Bricks
that have lost their hard outer surface may allow
too much water in.
Brick is held in place with mortar, and sometimes
the mortar deteriorates before the brick does. This can
provide a way for water to get inside the wall. Many
nineteenth-century rowhouses have very thin mortar
joints called butter joints. If these have deteriorated,
mortar in a butter joint needs to be removed by hand,
not by sawing-out a larger joint. Mortar needs to have
similar properties to the brick so that it will expand
and contract at the same rate.
Brownstone is a handsome material when installed
properly—the way it came out of the earth in horizontal
layers. There were some rowhouses with entire façades
of brownstone, but most frequently it is found at the
base of the façade, and as window and door surrounds.
When deteriorated it should be replaced with matching
stone, not patched or covered with stucco. Granite,
marble, and green serpentine stone can be found on
some houses as well; each with varying degrees of
durability. A good mason is invaluable in determining Top: Brick damaged by dripping air conditioner
the best way to restore and maintain a stone facade. Bottom: Deteriorated brownstone trim

Do not sandblast brick or clean it with acid as this can

remove the durable exterior skin of the brick, which will
quickly erode the wall.
Do not paint brick with material that is not breathable:
water needs to be able to find it’s way out of the wall so
it can evaporate. If it’s caught within the brick and the
temperature drops below freezing; the water will expand
and cause the brick surface to break, or spall.

10 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Many rowhouse façades have been refaced, sometimes Kitchen and bathroom additions to rowhouses were
because of a desire to modernize the look, and often built of less expensive material; usually wood
sometimes to mask problems. Any decision to reface framing with wood siding. All wood surfaces should
should be carefully considered in light of the visual be maintained and painted regularly. Most paint
impact on the neighborhood and the potential damage manufacturers have paint color selection guides to
to the structure. Stucco can be successful if installed assist in creating a harmonious look.
with care. Because it was not used originally, vinyl or
aluminum siding is usually detrimental to a rowhouse.
To cover a masonry wall with any type of material
requires a building permit and an inspection to insure
that the wall is structurally sound. Do not paint masonry Avoid putting air conditioners through solid walls; a hole
through the exterior wall can cause damage by allowing
that has never been painted. Remove paint from moisture to enter. Exhaust fans should vent through the
masonry carefully to restore the original appearance. roof or through the back of the house whenever possible.

Left: Permastone and stucco cover original brick

Center: Stucco over a bay window and mansard roof
Right: Aluminum siding on bay windows

Satellite dishes are unsightly and should be

placed on the roof; away from view of the street.

www.philaplanning.org 11
Insulation, Vapor Barriers & Air Quality
New housing must meet modern energy-efficiency Air Quality
standards, but most rowhouses were built with Houses need some fresh air to prevent indoor air
minimal insulation. Rowhouses are inherently pollution. Older homes are not built as tightly as
economical because shared party walls minimize modern ones, and older materials did not contain the
exterior exposure. For comfort and energy savings, potentially toxic substances of some modern materials.
older homes should be retrofitted by adding Too much air leakage can be drafty and inefficient
insulation to the roof and to the exterior walls. and cause too much heat loss.

Roof Insulation
Adding fiberglass batt or blown-in insulation to a
rowhouse attic is a very cost-effective way of reducing
energy use. It should not be stuffed in tightly: a Old versions of blown-in insulation—rock wool (sometimes
called “rotten cotton”) sometimes contain toxic material
couple of inches of airspace should always be left like asbestos. Before replacing this kind of insulation,
between the top of the insulation and the underside have it tested. A licensed professional must remove and
dispose of hazardous materials. Find one in the phone
of the roof. Some rowhouses have almost flat roofs book under Environmental or Ecological Services.
and no attics. When a new roof is installed, it’s To avoid fire danger, insulation must not be allowed to
possible to add rigid insulation between the decking touch recessed lighting fixtures or other heat-generating
and beneath the roofing material. devices in the wall or ceiling. If you have any doubts,
call in an electrician.
Indoor air pollution occurs for a variety of reasons.
Wall Insulation
Modern composite materials can break down chemically
For masonry rowhouses, the most common way to over time, releasing toxins into the air in a process called
insulate the front and rear walls is to place metal “off-gassing”. Formaldehyde in plywood and volatile
organic compounds (VOC’s) in paint are two examples.
or wood strips on the inside walls deep enough to
Carpets and carpet pads can trap dirt and dust that
accommodate the selected insulation. On top of the support mites and unhealthy substances that can affect
strips stretch a vapor barrier (see below) and new the health of the occupants, especially if they have
allergies. Traditional rowhouse floors are wood and tile
drywall for a finished interior wall. You will lose a bit which are easier to keep clean. Area rugs can be laundered
of space to the insulating layer, but it’s worth it. As at and aired. Take care that rugs are flat enough that they
the roof, leave a bit of airspace between the insulation do not pose tripping hazards.
and the exterior wall to avoid trapping moisture. Anything that introduces smoke into the air—smoking,
lack of exhaust at the range, exhaust from un-maintained
furnaces and poorly performing chimneys at wood-burning
Vapor Barrier fireplaces—reduces the quality of the interior air.

A vapor permeable air barrier is a thin layer of

special plastic or composite material that prevents
moisture from getting trapped inside the wall, where
it can nurture mold or attract pests. In our climate,
VAPOR BARRIER
the general rule is to place the barrier behind the
finished interior wall, with its water-resistant
surface facing toward the inside.

Section through a brick wall showing vapor barrier location

12 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Porches, Steps, & Stoops
Sitting on the stoop and watching the action on the
street is for many what living in Philadelphia is all
about. Kids playing street hockey or double dutch
brings activity and may also make neighborhoods safer.
The architecture of the street façade can help connect
people to the street. Most existing rowhouses are
a few steps up from the street, so with partial height

PHILLYHISTORY.ORG
curtains you can preserve privacy yet still be able
to see what’s happening outside. By contrast, street-
facing garage doors obscure the view and make
streets look unoccupied.
Many rowhouses were built with front porches. When
rowhouses have front porches, they are usually set a
few feet above the sidewalk, offering an enjoyable as
well as safety-enhancing vantage during nice weather.
Often these porches have been converted to indoor
space to enlarge the house—but this is rarely an
appropriate idea. A restored front porch can provide
protected outdoor space and a way to monitor street
life. Often porches were installed on the ground in
front of the house, rather than over a basement area.
Over time, temperature fluctuation and erosion can
cause the porch foundations to shift and cause the
structure to move independently of the rest of the
house. A good contractor can shore up the foundations
and recommend ways to restore columns, decking,
and roofing. Top: West Philadelphia porches in 1954
Keeping trash neatly stored and litter picked up not Bottom: Recessed porch under projecting bay window
only contributes to public health, but also conveys the
sense that residents use the street as their “living
room.” Research shows that criminals avoid clean,
well maintained streets in favor of vandalized and
Wood elements need to be well painted. Loose steps and
poorly maintained ones, which signal that residents boards should be repaired promptly, and loose railings
have resigned themselves to crime. and balusters should be maintained. If the materials have
deteriorated, replace them with what was used originally.
One of the best features of the rowhouse street is Wrought iron is not an acceptable alternative to wood
that you have so many neighbors close at hand. columns or brick piers.

Many blocks stage regular block cleanups or yard A working light keeps the sidewalk and street appealing
as well as visible—and prevents stumbles in the dark.
sales, followed by a potluck dinner. They’re fun, Lighting shows that the street is watched and occupied.
and they build solidarity and collaboration to solve Avoid floodlights and other types of fixtures that shine
problems. It is easy to get a permit from the Streets directly in the eyes of passersby. The intense light creates
shadows where criminals may lurk. An automatic timer
Department to close the street for your event: is a good way to insure that the light goes on even if
www.phila.gov/streets/blockparty.html you’re not at home.

www.philaplanning.org 13
 Windows
Windows say a great deal about your rowhouse. They
also contribute to the comfort, appeal, and energy
efficiency of your home. The way windows look has
long been driven by the technology of the time when
they were made. That’s why Colonial houses have six
or nine small panes per sash. As glass technology
improved, the panes of glass grew ever larger.

Window Replacement
In a city as historic as Philadelphia, it is worth the
effort to save original windows that are not beyond
repair. Many windows can be restored to their original
condition and continue to operate well. Recent
technical advances in windows have focused on saving
energy. Anyone with single-glazed windows should
consider upgrading to insulating glass. The energy
savings and improvement in comfort (by reducing
drafts and noise) will quickly pay back the investment.
If the existing window frame is in good condition,
you can usually replace the sash and glass for a modest
investment. If both window and frame are in poor
condition, you’ll need to install entirely new windows,
which costs more and is more disruptive. For extensive
retrofits, tax credits or energy credits may be available.

Modern Window Materials

Replacement windows come in a variety of
materials. Keep in mind that these are a long-term
investment in your home.
• Wood windows are widely available with traditional
styling and modern energy saving options. They
require regular painting.
• Wood clad with aluminum: lower maintenance
(they don’t have to be painted), but may detract
from the historic appearance if the profiles don’t
match the windows they replace. They are available
Top: When replacing doors and windows, don’t reduce
in limited colors. Once the finish fades, these the size of the original openings.
materials are more difficult to recoat successfully. Bottom: Paint wood windows and trim regularly.

• Vinyl windows: Because the strength qualities of

vinyl vary considerably from wood, the profile of
vinyl residential windows may be unappealingly
thicker than both wood and aluminum windows.
They are available in limited colors and are difficult
to refinish once they chalk and fade. In shaded
locations, they may mildew. Lower-priced vinyl
windows may have poor fit.

14 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Storm Windows ANATOMY OF A DOUBLE HUNG WINDOW

Storm windows reduce drafts and provide insulating

value. They can be installed on the exterior of the
house, or on the interior. Lightweight exterior
aluminum or vinyl storm windows can detract from
the appearance of the house, especially as they age.
On low-quality units, glass lights can fit poorly and
bind; screens can be flimsy. A high quality exterior
storm window may cost as much as a good replacement
window. However, it may be a good alternative if you
have a uniquely shaped or over-sized window.
Interior storm windows are easier to install, often less
expensive, and will not change the exterior appearance
Parts of a window
of the house. (They may be the only acceptable way
to improve the energy performance of historic houses
with original single-pane windows.) A rigid piece of
Plexiglass is cut to fit the window, and held in place by
a light plastic frame and magnetic tape, making it easy
to remove. These can be ordered on-line, and installed
by someone with very limited carpentry skills.

To rehabilitate existing windows, a contractor may need

to remove the sash from the frame, strip layers of paint,
and re-glue the sash. The chains and weights that counter-
balance the window as it slides up and down may have to
be repaired or replaced. It is easy and inexpensive to
add weather stripping to reduce drafts and save energy.
Substantially rotted sash and frames must be replaced.
Most replacement windows come with a release so that
they can be swung-in or tilted-in for easy cleaning—
a very desirable feature for a rowhouse.
Many houses in Philadelphia originally had shutters
for security and to keep the summer sun out. If added,
they should be in a style and material appropriate to
the house. Shutters originally had solid panels at the Double pane insulating glass
ground floor, and louvered panels on upper floors.
Fake shutters should be avoided.
Before air conditioning, canvas awnings, along with wood
shutters, were the chief way Philadelphians could keep
their homes cool in summer. Combined with ceiling or
window fans, they can still maintain comfort on all but
the hottest days. Aluminum and fiberglass awnings are
detrimental to the historic character of the street.
Security bars are meant to keep people out, yet not
imprison the homeowner. They should be designed with preferred not recommended
sensitivity to the appearance of the house. An excessively
Authentic divided light, Snap on grid, between
fortified appearance suggests a vulnerability to crime,
simulated divided light the panes grid
(according to research), which appeals to criminals, while
giving homebuyers second thoughts. Protection should
be visible, yet as discreet as possible. Any bars or gates
installed on windows and doors must be able to be opened
from inside without a key in case of fire. Quick release
mechanisms can be installed without compromising safety.

www.philaplanning.org 15
 Up on the Roof
Keeping water out of your rowhouse is the single Current building code requires that storm water must
most important way to ensure its longevity and to end up in the domestic sewer line, either in a direct
minimize your repair bills. The roof is your first connection from the cast-iron boot of the downspout,
line of defense against water. or from there through the lateral pipe in your
basement, and then out to the street sewer.
Most rowhouse roofs appear “flat”, although they are Some sections of Philadelphia have a combined storm
actually gently sloped toward a drain. A slope of 1/4” water and sewer system, which means that when it
vertical height over a distance of 12” is the minimum rains hard, the sewers can fill up and send raw sewage
for water to move. overflow into the rivers. Anything you can do to
• Modified bitumen is a low tech, lower cost, reliable hold rainwater on your site and let it discharge more
roofing system. Rolls of flexible material are adhered slowly will relieve pressure on the sewer system, and
to the roof and to one another, and the joints are improve the water quality in our rivers.
sealed. It is easy for a professional to detect a leak.
• Rubber roofing, or EPDM, is a commercial roofing Roof Decks
type sometimes used on houses. Leaks are harder A roof deck is a great amenity in a rowhouse,
to detect than in the above system. especially since many rowhouses have small yards
Some rowhouses have pitched roofs, which are surrounded by two- or three-story buildings. Often
covered in painted metal or shingles. the house has a rear ell that can be accessed from an
upper floor. It is usually inappropriate to build a
Sunlight is the worst enemy of roofing materials. deck on the top floor, unless the building is big
A silver or white coating on the roof helps to protect enough that you can set the deck and railing back
the materials, and also minimizes heat build up in from the building walls.
the attic or top floor. • Zoning and building permits are required for a roof
The roof must slope to the downspout. Rainwater deck. Zoning regulations for decks are complex,
gets into the downspout in one of two ways: so it is best to check with the Department of Licenses
• At the front and sometimes at the rear as well, the and Inspections early in your planning process.
water enters a roof drain, which may penetrate the • The deck does nothing to waterproof your house.
cornice or parapet in a scupper, and joins the That is still the job of the roofing system, so make
downspout on the outside of the building. sure that the roof is in very good condition prior to
• At the rear, and occasionally at the front, the water installing a deck. Any penetrations in the roof must
drains into a gutter that runs the length of the façade, be sealed properly.
which then joins the downspout. • The deck railing is the most important safety feature.
The final destination of the water must be on your It must conform to the code for height (usually 36”
property. It is illegal to divert storm water on to above the surface of the deck) and lateral strength,
sidewalks, streets or adjoining properties. One reason so that someone can fall or push against it without
for this is that if drained water freezes, someone it giving way.
could slip on the ice. • The deck needs a walking surface. Often this is an
independent wood structure on top of the roof.
Storm water must be able to access the downspout,
and not be trapped on the roof. The walking surface
should be easily removable to check for debris
clogging the downspout.

16 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

 Green Roofs CORNICES

• A green roof is one that is covered by low light-weight

vegetation. The soil for the plants may either be placed
directly on the roofing membrane or may be in pallets
that can be lifted on to the roof one by one. The pallet
installation can be done by a homeowner; the direct
installation should be done by a professional. In both
cases, it is important to protect the roof drains from
a build-up of soil or plant materials.
• The main benefit for the rowhouse owner is the
insulating quality of the plants and soil, as the roof
is the often the largest exposed surface of the house.
Roof cornice detail
The green roof protects roofing materials by keeping
the sun from hitting them, thus improving the
lifespan of the roof.
• You must consult with a professional if you are
interested in installing a green roof. The added weight
of soil and water may be too heavy for your existing
roof structure.

Downspout through cornice

SOLAR POWER

The Tale of Four Cornices: This photo shows the evolution of the
ornamental cornices on a row of houses in South Philadelphia.
On the right are two original painted metal cornices, one painted
two colors to highlight the detail. The middle cornice was
covered with vertical aluminum siding; the cornice had probably
deteriorated or perhaps the homeowner was tired of painting
and wanted a “facelift”. At the very left, the entire cornice has
been removed; only the brick remains. This original brick was laid
up with texture for attaching the cornice.

Solar energy for heating water is practical in Philadelphia.

www.philaplanning.org 17
 Plantings & Gardens
Rowhouses may not have space for broad lawns, Window Boxes & Planters
but there are lots of opportunities to plant trees Adding window boxes and planters inexpensively
and shrubs on even the smallest house lot. Urban improves the appearance of the front of your home.
gardening is not only extremely satisfying, it is Mix plants for sun or shade, depending on exposure.
also manageable for people with busy lives. (Numerous guidebooks can be found in libraries and
bookstores.) Be sure the soil is well-drained. Firmly
“Trees provide shade and beauty and so much more. A attach boxes above a sidewalk against the forces of wind.
single tree on your property can increase the value of your Take care not to damage the exterior wall or create
home and help keep it cool. A neighborhood filled with opportunity for leaks when attaching support brackets.
hundreds of trees is a more desirable place to live… Trees
improve air quality across large areas by filtering out
pollutants and slowing the formation of ground-level ozone.
They reduce flooding by absorbing water, and improve the Good Fences Make Good Neighbors: The Philadelphia
quality of storm runoff entering rivers and streams.” Zoning Code restricts the height of fences and garden walls
to 6 feet. Barbed wire and razor ribbon are not permitted.
FROM TENDING THE URBAN FOREST, PENNSYLVANIA Privacy can be achieved with visually solid fencing, but
HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY, SUMMER 2006 louvered or offset uprights allow breezes to flow through.

Left: Original wrought iron fence

Right (top): A bountiful window box
Right (bottom): A cheerful planter made from a tire

18 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

 Gardens STREET TREES

You may find you can squeeze shrubs or a garden

bed into some very small spaces. Depending on the
orientation of your home, you may find that you don’t
have enough light for sun-loving flowers, but many
plants do well in shade: hosta, ferns, pachysandra,
myrtle. Check hardiness charts for climate-suitable
species. Be attentive to invasive plants and “weed” trees
that grow and spread very quickly, and crowd out
native varieties. Some are difficult to remove once
established. Keep ivy and other vines off of the house.
Their roots can destroy mortar.

Street Trees
In Philadelphia, the Fairmount Park Commission is
responsible for maintaining street trees. Streets with A water-filled irrigation bag keeps young
trees from drying out.
trees not only seem lush and inviting, the shade makes
the streets more comfortable and can even noticeably
lower air-conditioning bills.
Young trees need to be nurtured carefully for the first
couple of years after they are planted. All trees have
a limited life span, and it is best to remove them before
disease or rot sends limbs crashing down.
WIKIMEDIA

Beware of Invasive Species. Which street looks more inviting?

Top: English Ivy
Bottom: Virginia Creeper

www.philaplanning.org 19
 Parking
Most of the streets and houses in Philadelphia were On Site Parking
designed long before the automobile became so Any new parking on your own property requires a
ubiquitous. There will never be enough room to permit from the city, because it entails penetrating the
accommodate everyone’s cars, let alone right in front sidewalk with a sloped curb cut. Neighbors may object
of their house. Reducing parking problems can be done to new parking because it can eliminate street spaces
in two ways: don’t have a car (especially a second car) and look unsightly. Any on site space must entirely
and store the vehicle you must have more gracefully. accommodate the vehicle. It cannot project into the
sidewalk or street. A street lined with parking garages
Do You Really Need a Car? can be unwelcoming, and actually reduces parking
Owning and operating even an inexpensive car costs capacity by eliminating street spaces. Parking in alleys
at least $6,000 annually in Philadelphia—for many can be gracefully handled by minimizing curb cuts and
models, the cost is much more. It is prudent to assume maintaining walkways and street trees. Appealing gates
gas costs will go even higher, but it is getting easier to or openwork mesh will make a better impression than
substitute other forms of transportation for a car. roll-down security doors or blank panels. Using paving
• Car Sharing—These membership organizations make stones or bricks can enhance an alley or private parking
cars locally available when you need them. They’re space by making it look like a courtyard where autos
not practical for daily commuting but are economical are occasionally found rather than a parking lot.
for errand-running and short trips. All sorts of
vehicles are available by the hour.: Phillycarshare.org,
Zipcar.com, Ucarshare.com
• Car Rental: Renting cars is relatively inexpensive
for long trips, hauling, occasional errands and
weekend getaways.
• Car Pool—Many companies encourage carpooling
by helping match riders, offering subsidies, and
providing more convenient parking for carpoolers
at the workplace.
• Public Transportation—Philadelphia is among
America’s best-served cities for public transportation,
so it’s worth considering. An easy-to-use trip planner
can be found at www.septa.org. Major streets were never intended to have curb cuts and garage doors.

GARAGE

Section through a house in the Northeast with rear garage at the basement

20 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Inside the Rowhouse
Rowhouses have stood as witnesses to huge changes in Philadelphia’s domestic
life over 300 years. Just look at our bathrooms, and the amount of clothing we
have, compared with our forbearers. This section discusses the specifics
of living and working spaces, bedrooms, storage, and systems—plumbing,
heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems.
First Floor
How a home relates to the street and sidewalk says
much about the character of a street. How a person
moves from the outside of the house to the inside
says much about how welcoming and inviting it is
to people who live and visit there.
Many first floors of older homes have taller ceilings
and a more open plan than the stories above, allowing
for taller windows and better air circulation. These
were the larger and more public rooms, and were
grander in design and detail than some of the more
utilitarian rooms upstairs. Often the kitchen is in a one
story addition at the rear of the house. In a very small
house, the kitchen was usually in the basement.

Vestibule
Because we live in a climate where winters can be
severe, it is very desirable to have a two-door entry
between the exterior and the interior. Don’t be
tempted to remove the vestibule to gain floor space.
You will regret it when you feel the drafts and pay
your heating bills.

Living & Dining Room

Be realistic when you plan the living room, dining
room and kitchen. The rowhouse living room that
is never used is a waste of valuable space. In a small
rowhouse, a second floor room could function as
a library or TV room, and the first floor could be
devoted to an eat-in kitchen and a dining area.
In a two story house, an open first floor plan can
accommodate all three functions in a way well suited
to casual living. Flexible room use is the hallmark
of the rowhouse.

Furniture
Because of their compact size rowhouses can be
difficult to furnish. Look for sofas that are not too
large, and make sure they will fit through your
doorway. An over-sized chair can make a small room
Top: James Oleg Kruhly + Associates Architects
appear even smaller. Coffee tables can double as Bottom: A well lit corridor leads toward daylight,
foot rests, and some have compartments for storage. Atkin Olshin Schade Architects

22 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Lighting POWDER ROOM

If you have a dining table that needs to be relocated These are some plans for very compact powder rooms.
for special occasions, consider light fixtures on tracks Swinging the door out of rather than into the room can
make a huge difference. Pocket doors are another choice,
or an adjustable pendant light with swag hooks. though don’t offer as much sound insulation. A corner
Wall sconces offer nice ambience, as do candles. toilet and corner sink can save space.

Use dimmers as a way to adjust the mood, as well

as save energy.

Powder Room
The value of a toilet and sink on the first floor is
immeasurable. Aside from the convenience, it may
make the difference between being able to stay at
home while temporarily incapacitated due to an illness
or injury, and having to stay with relatives or at a
convalescent home. For older residents who climb
stairs with difficulty, it may mean the ability to live at
home longer. A powder room can be tiny, tucked in
next to a closet or, if the basement stair is elsewhere,
under the main stair. An out-swinging door is often
the secret to fitting in a tight space.

Doors should be a minimum of 34” wide to allow for the

use of a walker, or for a person carrying a big load. Door
openings should be durable wood or metal, not drywall.
Lever door handles are easier to operate than door knobs.
Wall-mounted handrails or bars should be securely fastened,
in case someone uses them for support. Wood blocking
can be installed behind drywall to reinforce the mounting.
Floors should be as slip-free as possible, with any uneven
areas repaired. Loose rugs are always a tripping hazard,
as is a level change with only a single step: people often
don’t see them. If you have a single step level change,
especially if both levels are the same material, make sure
the area is well lit, and consider calling out the edge with
WHITEHAUS.COM

a contrasting color.
ELJER.COM

The International Building Code requires that all

powder rooms or bathrooms have an exhaust fan or
operable window.

www.philaplanning.org 23
 Kitchen & Laundry
“A place for everything and everything in its place.”
ISABELLA MARY BEETON, THE BOOK OF HOUSEHOLD
MANAGEMENT, 1861

The kitchen may be the heart of the house, but it

wasn’t always so. It was very often in a shed added at
the back or in the basement. In houses where space
is tight—so often the case with rowhouses—cooking
now competes for space with watching television,
reading the paper, doing homework, and paying the
bills. Well-organized storage is essential to keep such
a multi-tasking space working smoothly.
Hundreds of magazines and books burst with the
latest trends in kitchen design. Look for layouts that
minimize steps (especially between sink, stove, and
refrigerator) and place workspace adjacent to related
fixtures and appliances. Locate cabinets to put
frequently used items in easy reach.

Cabinets
Good quality cabinets don’t always command
premium prices. Look for durable shelf and drawer
construction, quality hardware, and wear-resistant Top: Schade and Bolender Architects
cabinet fronts. Maximize storage by extending upper Bottom: Brett Weber Architects PC
cabinets to the ceiling (be sure to have a convenient
space for a compact step ladder). Pull-out shelves
and drawers ease access, especially for those with
disabilities. It’s useful to have an open bookcase nearby,
and a file drawer as well. Minimize corner cabinets; Kitchen countertops can range in price from $20 to $125
per linear foot installed. The variables aside from cost
they are difficult to access and good fittings can are: durability, ease of cleaning, choice of colors/finish.
be expensive. Plastic laminate continues to be the best value for it’s
durability, while engineered stone seems to be the most
resistant to stains and heat damage.
Materials TYPES: in order of cost (lowest to highest) Plastic laminate
Keep materials simple and easy to clean, and as (Formica™, Wilsonart™), maple butcher block, ceramic tile,
solid surfacing material (Corian™), natural stone: marble,
durable as you can afford. Neutral, natural materials granite, soapstone, stainless steel, engineered stone
will look better for longer. Continuing the hardwood (Zodiac™, Caesarstone™, Silestone™), sealed concrete.
floor into a kitchen can help tie together spaces—
an extra layer of polyurethane will protect the wood
in high-use areas. Tile and stone are durable but can
be uncomfortable over long periods of standing.
Linoleum and vinyl are sold as tile or in sheets, and
if installed properly can be a great way to cover
a floor more economically.

24 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Appliances APPLIANCES & LIGHTING

With energy costs volatile, look for Energy Star ratings

and use the yellow energy-guide stickers to choose
efficient units. Take measurements of the space available
when replacing an appliance, noting the degree to which
appliances (especially refrigerators) project beyond the
counter depth. Make sure doors of ovens, refrigerators
and dishwasher don’t collide with each other or
other obstructions.
Finish materials surrounding a stove need to be
noncombustible (tile, stainless steel). Professional-style
ranges may be much larger than conventional stoves
and can heat a kitchen to uncomfortable levels.
An exhaust fan vented to the exterior is required by
code for the bigger ranges and for kitchens that don’t
have windows. Venting is important in all kitchens to Common appliance sizes
remove smoke, odors, excess moisture, and reduce the
deposit of grease and oils. If venting outside is not
possible, a recirculating fan with a washable filter helps.

Laundry
The laundry need not be relegated to the basement. Lighting for the kitchen
You can locate a washer and dryer on upper floors if
you set the washer in a pan with a drain to catch any
overflow or leaks. New energy-efficient units use less
water and are often small enough to fit beneath a
kitchen counter. Stacking units save space.
Dryers must be vented directly to the exterior. Clean
the ducts regularly to reduce the possibility of fire from
lint build-up. To really save energy, hang your laundry
up to dry outdoors or on a rack in the bathroom.
Just be sure to run the bathroom exhaust while the
clothes are drying.

Washers and Dryers

www.philaplanning.org 25
Stairs
A stairway with beautifully turned spindles and a
gracefully curving rail is a real asset to a house, so
maintaining or restoring original stairways of real craft
can be well worth the effort. A beautifully made new
stair can similarly become a focal point. In rowhouses,
stairs seem always to take up too much space yet often
feel cramped. Keep these considerations in mind
when updating, replacing, or adding stairs.
Stairs are most comfortable when the treads are deep
enough to accommodate almost all of our foot and
when the risers are not too high. Each step in a set of
stairs must have the same dimension. (In older houses,
stair dimensions often vary, which is a tripping hazard
and should be fixed.) A well-anchored handrail is
required on at least one side of the stair and you
must provide a balustrade to the side of the stair if
it is open rather than enclosed by walls.
Rowhouses often have very steep staircases to minimize
the space they use. But saving space entails a tradeoff:
a steep stair may be difficult for those whose walking
is impaired. It’s also harder to stop a fall on a steep
stairway. Always repair a tilting staircase, replace loose, These dimensions are determined by the building code and
broken or uneven treads, and repair wobbly railings. apply to new construction. If you have an existing stair that
does not meet code, you are required to change it only
You should always have a light fixture at the top when you are renovating.
and bottom of the stairs, which should be controlled
by a switches at both ends of the stair. Easy-to-install
gates (top and bottom) are necessary for families
with toddlers.

Stairway Types
A straight-run stair is the simplest and least expensive,
but many houses are too small to accommodate them.
A 90-degree turn, even one with just a couple of steps,
may help a stair fit a tight space. A switchback stair
(reversing course mid-run) may do the trick, too, but
the landing will be larger.
Many small rowhouses have stairs called “winders”,
which are spiral stairs that radiate around a point.
They are best avoided (and are not legal in new
construction or major renovations) and must Chair Lift
be walked with care because it is easy to lose your
footing on the narrow part of the tread. Also, it
may be all but impossible to move large pieces
of furniture up winding staircases.
For those who can’t climb stairs, lifting mechanisms can
often be fitted to run up the wall, keeping it free for
normal usage. A small residential elevator can be installed
in larger homes, but at considerable expense.

26 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Bedrooms & Closets
When most rowhouses were built, bedrooms were EGRESS & EFFICIENT FURNITURE

almost always shared, even if furniture all but filled the

room. Owning few clothes, people got along with very
small closets or freestanding wardrobes. Nowadays
small bedrooms can be comfortable and feel spacious
with careful attention to furniture and storage.
The bed is the largest piece of furniture in the bedroom,
and can sometimes be hard to fit so always measure
first. Some really large mattresses can be broken-down
into two pieces. Other furniture sometimes has legs
that can be removed. Bunk beds or a loft bed with
a small desk save space in kids’ rooms, but be aware
of headroom clearance, and make sure that it has a
built-in ladder for access.
All sleeping rooms require a window that someone can crawl through.
Closets
In order to hang clothes on a rod, a closet needs to be
at least 24” deep. Hangers are roughly 18” wide, but
most clothes flair out a bit. It is helpful to have a
shelf or two above the hanging rod. In the event you
have enough vertical space, you can mount two rods
one above the other to hang items of short length
(pants, shirts). You can build in shelves or drawers to
A bunk bead, a desk, a bureau and a closet all combined in one unit.
reclaim the space a dresser would use. Clothing hooks
on the back of a door or along the side of a closet can
add even more storage for clothes, belts, robes, hats, MATTRESSES
and handbags.
Another space- and money-saver is to use curtains
instead of closet doors: they take up much less room,
are much less expensive, and can be changed like a
shower curtain. Heavy fabric is recommended (canvas,
velveteen), and can hang on a rod between the jambs
of the closet opening. Standard mattress sizes

CLOSETS

By code, you must be able to turn a light on when

entering a room. You can wire a switch by the door to an
overhead light or to a plug outlet for a lamp.
By law a sleeping room cannot be smaller than 7ft x 10ft,
Typical hanger dimensions
with a 7ft high ceiling. Bedrooms must have a window that
opens to the exterior and it must open enough to allow
a person to climb through in the event of an emergency.
Install lighting in a closet with care—away from stored objects,
which can cause a fire. Bare light bulbs must be enclosed. A well thought out closet

www.philaplanning.org 27
Bathrooms
Bathrooms, like kitchens, tend to cost more on a over time. A “trouble door” is often found behind
square-foot basis than any other room in the house, the bathtub controls, making it easy for a plumber to
but you don’t have to break the bank to have a repair or replace faulty plumbing.
functional and beautiful bathroom. More high-quality, New faucets and toilets are made to conserve water
well-designed, reasonably priced fixtures, fittings and usage. A well-designed efficient fixture will not
finishes are available than ever before. A bathroom noticeably affect the water pressure.
does not need to be enormous, either. It needs to
be comfortable, durable and easy to clean. A good How to decide which toilet to buy? New toilets are
bathroom is well lit and has some storage space. available with a higher seat than usual, which makes
them easier for people with mobility problems to use.
Two-piece toilets are usually less expensive than one
Fixtures
piece models, and use gravity to flush rather than
Generally, classic white fixtures (sink, tub, toilet) mechanics. Some new toilets even offer a “dual flush”
remain in style longer than the latest fashionable hues. option, a great water saver.
Color and pattern can be introduced with towels and
paint, which are much easier and less expensive Finishes
to replace when trends change.
There are thousands of choices in ceramic tile,
No code requires that every home have a bathtub, hundreds in stone and more engineered stone and
but most realtors suggest that each house should have solid surfacing materials appear each year. Be sure that
one. If you like to take long baths, make sure the tub materials are easy to clean, and countertops should
is deep enough to get submerged. A deep tub can not be porous or that will make them vulnerable to
be inconvenient if you normally take showers or if stains. Large tiles minimize grout joints which tend
mobility is impaired, so think about how you will to be difficult to keep clean. Install tile on the walls
use the bathroom before you decide which fixtures to to a height of four feet, especially around toilets.
purchase. In the tub and shower, grab bars can double
as towel bars, and should be firmly attached through Polished chrome is the most common and least
the wall to solid-wood blocking. Planning for grab expensive finish for faucets. Beware of special finishes
bars is important for safety, not just for the disabled. as they can be expensive or difficult to maintain.
Anti-scald shower valves are highly recommended
and now required in some areas.
A pedestal sink will make a small bath appear larger,
as more of the floor is visible. Many people prefer
a vanity for their sink to use for storage; but they often
attract clutter. Medicine cabinets and small closets
are a better storage option. A sink console (sink and
countertop atop a frame) is a good idea, and can
be outfitted with a bar for hanging towels. Make sure
the pedestal or console has enough flat surface for
soap, a drinking cup, etc. Two sinks are nice for two
people if you have the room, but not necessary. A Bathroom floors need to have some texture so they are
shut-off valve at each fixture is preferred, but some not slippery when dry or wet.

plumbers will only install a single shutoff for a whole All bathrooms are required to have either a window that
opens, or an exhaust fan. Without proper ventilation,
bath in one location (normally in the basement). the humidity in a bathroom can promote the growth of
A ball valve for the shut-off offers the least trouble mold and mildew.

28 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

LAYOUTS

Minimum sizes for bathroom layouts

SHOWER & SINKS

Adjustable hand-held shower Console sink Vanity Sink Pedestal Sink

Another good idea in a tub/shower is a hand held shower. These are attached to a vertical
bar, and so can be adjusted for one’s individual height. They can be used as the main
shower head, or with a diverter, in addition to the shower head. Not only are they nice
for showering, but they are useful for cleaning the tub and walls.

ACCESSORIES

This is a “hotel” rack, great A surface-mounted medicine can Special towel bars are able to hold
for towels over the toilet hold supplies more than the standard type

When you’re tight for space, a sturdy hook can take the place of a towel bar. Make
sure all accessories are firmly attached to framing or blocking behind the wall surface.
Shelves can accommodate extra towels and supplies. Shower curtains are much less
expensive and far easier to keep clean than shower doors. Some medicine cabinets are
as deep as 6” so they can accommodate more, even spare rolls of toilet tissue.

www.philaplanning.org 29
Flexible Spaces
The “Not So Big House” HOME OFFICE

Great sources of inspiration for rowhouse occupants

are found in “The Not So Big House” (Taunton
Press, 1998) and other books by Sarah Susanka, a
Minneapolis architect. Rowhouse owners may not have
a choice but to use small spaces efficiently. Even if you
have more space than you need, you can still make
it work harder.

Overlapping Uses
Does your living room look perfect but is never used?
Is your dining room used only on special occasions
and is otherwise off limits? You can make rooms do
double duty. With games and the TV stored behind
cabinet doors, an informal family room can become
a handsome space for big meals and entertaining.
Everyone likes to spend time in the kitchen, so there’s
no reason not to open it to other rooms. If you want
a formal space to receive guests but never use a big
living room, consider creating a modest parlor at the
front door (many rowhouses have these rooms anyway).
With thoughtfully chosen cabinets and shelves, and a
sofa bed, a sewing or project room can quickly be A home office can fit into a
transformed into an occasional guest bedroom. wide closet—easy to close away.

Home Office
You can convert a bedroom to a home office—whether
full or part-time—easier than ever today, with the
wide selection of furniture designed with those who
work at home in mind. Even a wide closet with bi-fold
doors can become an office space in a small house,
and can disappear (with the mess on your desk intact)
when guests arrive. To work at home full-time generally
means you’ll need to devote a room to work, where
valuable documents can be kept away from prying
childrens’ hands, and the door closed to screen
disturbances. If a separate room isn’t possible, you can
place a closable desk in almost any available corner
or alcove—although you will want to consider the
proximity to electrical outlets (one is often not
enough), a telephone outlet and internet service.
You will be glad for a window, especially one with a
view, but the basement or the windowless center of
the house may also be the place for a home office
when the needs for storage and work surfaces trump
other considerations.

30 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Basements
Walls & Foundations
Since the foundations and basement walls must Mold can grow on many indoor surfaces, including
hold up your entire house, you should remedy any carpet, cloth, drywall and insulation. Many molds are
unsightly, but harmless. Others can cause serious health
structural problems as soon as possible. Signs of problems, from triggering symptoms of asthma to deadly
trouble are significant cracks, misalignments, settling, conditions. Promptly repair conditions that create
dampness, then clean and dry wet building materials
and bulges. Repair eroded masonry joints. If you can within 48 hours to prevent mold growth. If water has
see the joists overhead (the thick wood framing that stood for a time, finished wall surfaces may have to
holds up the floor), confirm that they have not be removed to fully treat and dry the walls behind.
Electrical wires and outlets may have to be replaced.
been damaged by rot or termites.
Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that occurs naturally
in the soil, and can cause serious illness. It usually enters
Water in the Basement a house through the basement. The federal Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that all houses be
Groundwater problems can often be solved by fixing tested for radon even though Philadelphia is listed in the
faulty outside drainage. (See Gutters and Downspouts lowest incidence category. Remedies can be inexpensive
but usually require professional help. (See Resources p. 46)
and Stormwater Management). If you cannot find the
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless toxic gas,
source, consult a professional. Few walls can be water- often released by poorly maintained appliances, like
proofed from the inside, but a sump pump (which sits furnaces or water heaters. The first line of defense is to
in a water-collecting pit) can remove heavy seepage. regularly maintain these appliances. Carbon monoxide
detectors (some in combination with smoke detectors)
Flooding is another matter. If you have unused are widely available.
toilets, sinks or floor drains in the basement, have You cannot use a basement for a bedroom unless the
way out is adequate in case of fire (no ladders) and you
them removed and blocked so that overloaded sewers can install windows of the same type required in other
cannot back up into them. Repeated flooding amongst bedrooms for egress.
several houses in a neighborhood usually indicates It is possible to excavate the basement to get more ceiling
a sewer problem that must be addressed by the Water height, but you cannot expose footings or dig lower than
the basement level of adjoining houses without providing
Department. A back-flow preventer valve can be adequate structural support. See Structural Issues p.36.
installed to keep sewage from coming up through
your piping. For general dampness, a portable
dehumidifier can be very effective, and it only uses
as much power as a light bulb.

Finished Basements
Often basements do not have high enough ceilings
to accommodate normal living spaces, but when the
bottom of the floor joists are 7 ft high or higher you
may want to consider having a playroom or home
office downstairs. Lighting may be installed between
floor joists (don’t remove the cross bracing); an electri-
cian can advise on types that won’t cause a fire hazard.
Separate the finished areas of the basement from the
BILCO.COM

utility areas (furnace, water heater, meters) with parti-

tions and doors. Keep flooring simple and able to resist
damage from the occasional leaking pipe. Basement egress window

www.philaplanning.org 31
Interior Materials
Floors Trim
Most floors above the basement are laid on top of Wood is milled into different shapes to finish off
subflooring, which spans across the joists below. a room: to cover the joint between the floor and the
Hardwood flooring is the most common finish material wall, the wall and the ceiling, or to transition from
found in the rowhouse; often with decorative borders. a window or door to the adjacent wall. The first floor
When possible, hardwood floors should be repaired of most houses often has heavier and thicker trim than
and refinished rather than replaced. A tongue and upper floors. When possible, preserve and re-use old
groove wood floor is typically 5/8” to 3/4” thick, and trim to maintain the original character of a room. New
can be refinished. A “face-nailed” wood floor is only mouldings can be made to match the old ones for not
5/16” thick, and needs to be refinished carefully as it much more than thinner ready-made trim available
is very thin. A darker wood stain can help even out at home improvement stores.
discolored patches than aren’t removed by sanding.
Carpet can be a less expensive way to cover the subfloor; Doors
a tightly looped weave or a short pile will last longer Interior doors were often made like cabinet furniture,
and will not retain as much dust. A sturdy flat pad a frame with panels in various patterns, and were
beneath makes a thin carpet more comfortable. typically more ornate on the lower, more public, floors
of the house. Re-finish and re-use old doors rather
Walls & Ceilings than replace them when possible. A good solid wood
Many older homes have interior partitions made of door can reduce sound transmission as well as look
plaster applied to wood lath. Over time, plaster beautiful. Flush (flat) and hollow core doors are less
becomes loose and falls off when the “keys” break expensive but usually lack character and heft.
loose from the lath. Many companies make new hardware that matches
When repairing cracks or holes, it is best to preserve older styles, and finishes such as an antiqued brass
the older material and patch it with new plaster. New will complement older hardware rather than looking
partitions are usually built with drywall (also known too new. Look for solid brass rather than plated
as sheetrock or gypsum wallboard), which is much less steel for longevity.
expensive than applying 2-3 coats of wet plaster on
lath. A good compromise is skim-coating the drywall
with a thin layer of plaster veneer to match the texture
of adjacent walls. Decorative plaster mouldings
should be repaired or replaced.
DECORATORSSUPPLYC.OM
MEAD.ZYMURGEA.COM

NPS.ORG

Left: Exposed wood lath on old plaster wall

Center: Moulded plaster ceiling medallion
Right: Installing a composite ceiling medallion

32 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Paint DOORS

Repainting is one of the easiest and least expensive

ways to transform a room. Proper preparation of the
surface before painting is essential to a long-lasting
paint job. Older homes often have paint that was
made with lead, and should be tested before being
scraped off. Cracks and holes should be repaired and
sanded. Darker colors often require additional coats
to cover a light base. Primer can be tinted to assist in
the transition. As with the exterior paint colors, most
manufacturers have assembled palettes of coordinated Solid wood raised panel doors
colors to assist in selection. It is nearly impossible to
select a color from a small paint chip. Buy a small
amount (some companies even have sample pots
available) apply a 2 ft by 2 ft swatch of color on
various walls to see how the colors look in various
lighting conditions (night/day, fluorescent/
TAGUELUMBER.COM

incandescent) before deciding on the final scheme.

Light colored or white ceilings will make a room
feel taller. Flat paint will be the most forgiving of
irregular surfaces.
Wood door casing moulding

Wallpaper
Old houses often have many layers of wallpaper,
sometimes under layers of paint. Remove wallpaper
carefully to preserve the wall beneath and minimize
prep work. New wallpaper can be installed by the
skilled homeowner with some practice.

If a material smells toxic, it usually is. Look for materials

that have low VOC’s to avoid adding harmful out-gassing
of potentially hazardous materials.
Keep extra paint, wallpaper, tile, etc for future repairs. Label
it clearly so you remember when and where it was used.

www.philaplanning.org 33
 Mechanical Systems
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
(HVAC)

BEDBATHANDBEYOND.COM

LIGHTINGUNIVERSE.COM
Most rowhouses are heated by a boiler or a furnace
that is fueled by natural gas or home heating oil.
• A boiler heats water, or sometimes makes steam,
that circulates through radiators.
• A furnace includes a fan, and circulates warm air Left: Insulating air conditioner cover
through ducts into the rooms through ceiling, wall, Right: Ceiling fan

or floor registers. Some furnaces include a cooling

unit for central air conditioning that may run through
separate ducts located near the ceiling.
• A heat pump can provide heating and air conditioning.
Central air conditioning requires an outdoor
condensing unit, which needs to be located where
the noise and heat can dissipate. It cools liquid,
which enters the indoor air handler through thin A ceiling fan is a low-cost way of keeping cool. A fan will
insulated tubes. As air blows across the cold not actually reduce the temperature, but the movement
of air has a “wind chill” effect that can really make a
coils, water condenses and must be drained or difference on a hot day. Hang the fan at least one foot
collected in a condensate pan. below the ceiling, 7ft above the floor, and at least 2ft
from the nearest wall. For rooms up to 144 sq. ft., a blade
Any kind of air conditioning consumes a great deal span of 42” to 44” is recommended.
of electricity, so the best way to keep your bills down In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life
is to put the thermostat to the warmest temperature and those of your loved ones. They are a very important
means of preventing house fire fatalities by providing an
you find comfortable. In winter, setting the furnace early warning signal—so you and your family can escape.
thermostat a few degrees cooler will also pay off in Install smoke alarms on every level of your home,
substantial savings during the heating season. including the basement. For renovations that require a
building permit an electrician will have to install a smoke
Window air conditioning units are inexpensive to detector wired into the electrical system of the house
rather than relying on a battery. Battery-operated smoke
buy, but tend to be more expensive to operate than detectors work reliably; but batteries should be checked
central air conditioning. Make sure the units are monthly and replaced twice a year (easier to remember if
securely installed, and check to be sure condensate you do it on the days you set your clocks for Daylight
Savings Time).
drains or dissipates into the air. If it is collecting
Home security systems need not be expensive but should
on the windowsill or running down the wall, it can be installed by professionals. The most effective systems
do costly damage. (see p. 10) You will save heat tie into both the alarm company and the fire or police
energy by removing the air conditioner during winter departments (registration fee required). Let your neighbors
know when you will be away; they’ll keep an eye on your
months, but if that’s not possible, an insulated home and you can give them information to turn off the
cover will cut drafts. alarm if it goes off in error.

34 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

Plumbing Electricity & Lighting
Plumbing for rowhouses does not vary significantly Many older homes have low capacity electric service.
from that of other older housing types, however If you plan to increase the electrical load when
because space is limited, plumbers often would cut renovating, consult an electrician and PECO regarding
access holes through wood joists to avoid exposing upgrading your service. Electric dryers, electric stoves,
pipes. When replacing fixtures, supply and waste lines and central air conditioning systems are examples of
may be disturbed by the demolition process. Lead appliances that draw a significant amount of power.
piping should always be replaced if found. While the The circuit breaker or fuse box exists to prevent
Philadelphia Plumbing Code allows new supply lines overloaded wires from causing fires. If a circuit or fuse
to be made of reinforced plastic piping, most plumbers trips frequently, it means that you need to remove
recommend installing copper piping. Likewise with the source of the overload or rewire. Never simply
waste lines: PVC piping is allowable, but cast iron is replace a breaker or fuse with one of greater capacity,
more likely to absorb the sound of rushing water- as it could lead to a deadly fire.
in a small house this can be quite noticeable. Insulate Porcelain knob and tube or fabric wrapped wiring can
hot water piping where it is accessible. Tankless or still be found in some rowhouses. While not intrinsically
on-demand water heaters are becoming popular, but dangerous, it should be replaced when renovating as it
they have a higher upfront cost and require a sizable is likely to be in poor condition and is not allowed to
gas line and proper venting. It is important not to be installed by code today. To avoid electric shocks,
oversize the water heater so you are not warming outlets should be grounded. You can test them yourself
water you never need. with an inexpensive device from a home store. Any
outlets near a water source (as in a bathroom or
kitchen) need to be the type that contains a re-setting
circuit breaker. It will keep you from getting shocked if
you touch the outlet when you are also touching water.
Because they are long and narrow, rowhouses can be
dark, especially on the lower floors. Add more lighting
to the areas at the center of the house, and keep
wall colors light. Consider installing skylights at the
upper floors, especially above rooms with no windows.
REJUVENATION.COM

Left: Sink shut-off valve

Center: Toilet shut-off valve
Right: Reproduction wall sconce

www.philaplanning.org 35
Structural Considerations
One of the beauties of the Philadelphia rowhouse is condition and lacking air gaps that could spread
the simplicity of its structure; it is easy to understand fire or smoke. (Other code-acceptable noncombustible
how the parts work together. materials can be used, as long as the construction is
rated to achieve the minimum required fire separation).
Foundations In older homes, party walls do not always extend
up to the roof. Any openings at party walls should be
The house sits on foundations that are below grade.
filled to maintain the fire separation from top to
If foundation walls or piers have tilted, heaved or
bottom. Some party walls support the floor and roof,
cracked, they may not have been sunk far enough
and no changes should be made that would reduce
below the surface and cycles of winter freezing and
the strength of the wall. Consulting a professional
thawing have displaced them. An engineer must propose
architect or engineer is a must.
remedies to avoid settling or collapse. Tilted, bulging
or badly cracked basement walls suggest foundation The exterior masonry walls of some rowhouses might
problems that merit immediate remediation. bulge or tilt noticeably over time. This condition—
caused by settling or pressure from an adjacent house—
Floor Structures among other culprits—can be dangerous. If a wall is
tilting outward (use a plumb bob or weighted fishing
Typically, wood joists span from party wall to party
line to check), call an engineer. Fixes can often be
wall and rest in pockets in side walls. One of the most
relatively inexpensive, and much less expensive than
common structural problems is when the joists rot
reconstruction.Water penetration can erode the
where they rest in those pockets.
solidity of the joist-to-masonry connection. This
condition must be corrected, either with “star bolts”
Walls or chemical anchors.
Most rowhouses 16ft wide or less are supported by
their side walls. Wider houses (or deep ones) may Roof Structure
have intermediate walls that bear the weight of floors
As discussed on p. 16, the roof is the most vulnerable
on piers underneath the house. These are called
part of the house. Fix leaks promptly. If you suspect
structural or bearing walls. Only with expert advice
your house has been neglected, have the roof structure
should you consider altering any structural
inspected in case rafters (and attic floor joists if you
wall. You will have to add support in other areas.
have them) have rotted.
In older homes, party walls between rowhouses are
If roof rafters run front to back it is tempting to
usually made from bricks. For stability, and to keep
remove the flat joists that tie them together to make
fire from spreading, party walls should have two
more headroom. Don’t; these joists are an integral
or more wythes (horizontal layers) of brick, in good
part of the roof-support system.

HOME OFFICE

Most rowhouses have basements at the Drop a plumb bob to see Star bolts tie back a bulging wall. Roof cross ties
same level. Do not excavate your basement if your wall is straight.
without professional help or you will
undermine and weaken the party wall.

36 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

 Your Rowhouse
What if a particular rowhouse is too small for your lifestyle? What if it is too large?
How can you make the most of the space available? The process of making changes to
a rowhouse can be daunting, but it need not be mysterious. This section provides two case
studies of actual Philadelphia rowhouse projects. We also include advice about maintaining
your home followed by some compelling ideas for renovations. There is information on
building permits, working with professionals, and some very useful resources.

www.philaplanning.org 37
The House is Too Small — A Case Study
Do you often find yourself wishing for just one more
room? Sometimes you need a guest room for in-laws
so they can stay overnight at Thanksgiving. Other
times it is a project room, where you can leave all of
your stuff out without having to clear it off the kitchen
table so you can eat dinner. Some people just yearn for
another 12 inches of shelf space in the kitchen, or a
linen closet. Many people want to stay in their homes,

JEFFREY TOTARO/ESTO
but need to find some more space. Deteriorating
additions can be removed and rebuilt, adding stories
and decks above. Making more efficient ways of storing
the stuff you can’t part with can be life changing.
1st Floor, before and after, Schade and Bolender Architects
This is the house of a homeowner who wanted to
enlarge her kitchen. and add a second floor bath
above it. The house had a small two story portion on
the rear with a small roof deck. The kitchen was small office area; both lit from new skylights. The old third
and the appliances and cabinets needed to be upgraded. floor bath was upgraded for the master suite but
With a wish list created by the homeowner, the stayed in the same configuration. The new roof deck
architect proposed to remove the old addition, create is more spacious and also provides a screened area
a wider opening to a larger new kitchen addition, and for the air conditioning units.
create a master bedroom suite above. The contractor
inserted a steel beam to open up the kitchen up to the
dining area. New French doors connect the kitchen to
If you are looking to add onto your house, you will
a small back yard. The second floor has a large bedroom need to obtain a Zoning Permit and a Building Permit
looking out at the rear yeard, with a bathroom and (see p. 44).

BEFORE & AFTER

1st floor, 2nd floor, 3rd floor, before 1st floor, 2nd floor, 3rd floor, after

38 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

The House is Too Large — A Case Study
It seems a bit odd to think that some houses are actually BEFORE & AFTER
too large for their occupants. In fact some rowhouses
built in Philadelphia are much larger than any family
today requires. These houses were built to accommodate
much larger families, often with live-in cooks, maids,
and chauffeurs. Many of those large houses have been
subdivided into separate apartments or condominiums
to accommodate smaller families or to provide student
housing. This is the story of the transformation of a
block of architecturally important houses in North
Philadelphia; from vacant and abandoned buildings to
newly renovated homes for first time homeowners.
Both sides of a whole block in North Philadelphia were
designed by architect Willis Hale in the 1870s. They
were saved by Project H.O.M.E., a non-profit agency
committed to ending homelessness.
Neighbors on the block of 1900 North 23rd Street
were tired of seeing the houses around them sit vacant 1st floor, 2nd floor, 3rd floor, before
and driving the decline of the rest of the street. They
reached out to Project H.O.M.E. for help. After
lengthy negotiations to acquire the properties, Project
H.O.M.E.’s Project Manager Jill Roberts and architect
Brian Kuhns of Kramer/Marks Architects developed a
plan to reduce the size of the grand houses from 2,500
sq ft to 1,300 sq ft, still ample space to provide for three
bedrooms and 1 1/2 baths. The rear ells of the houses
were removed. In the bargain, a back yard was gained,
and planted to absorb a good share of storm water. The
houses were rehabilitated with environmentally sustain-
able materials, and the façades were carefully restored.

1st floor, 2nd floor, 3rd floor, after

Top row: Front elevation, before and after

Bottom row: Rear elevation, before and nearly complete
www.philaplanning.org 39
 Maintaining A Rowhouse
Maintaining your home is very important to keep Interior
it safe, working well and to preserve its value. The • Maintain all appliances and household equipment
easiest way to keep up with maintenance is to make such as furnaces, water heaters, humidifiers, air
a chart showing dates for various services that need conditioners etc. as described in owner’s manuals
to be performed. Keep all manuals, repair bills and
• Vacuum refrigerator coils and replace gasketing that
important phone numbers with the chart. Perform
is not sealing properly
repairs to infrastructure and equipment quickly to
prevent further damage or unsafe and inefficient • Watch for water stains on all surfaces
operation. Here are some basic maintenance tasks • Wriggle stair balustrade to test for sturdiness and
to keep your rowhouse in “working order”. repair any loose members
• Check for adequate ventilation in all rooms to keep
Exterior air circulating, look for signs of mildew in wet areas
• Consider removing paint on exterior masonry which • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on
can trap moisture inside and cause damage a regular schedule and replace batteries twice a year
• Watch for water staining on walls, look for rot in • Have a fire extinguisher on each floor and know
exposed wooden members how to use it.
• Check masonry and joints, stucco and paint for • Have all the fire extinguishers recharged and
signs of cracking and peeling inspected as recommended
• Clear the small weep holes near the base of a brick
wall so that moisture can drain Plumbing
• Look for signs of animal or insect damage or • Know where the shut-off valves are
droppings around cornice and in vents • Clear drains that discharge too slowly as this
• Clean gutters regularly to make sure they drain, look may indicate a clog
for signs of clogged downspouts or gutters during • Check for leaks; listen for any running water sounds
heavy rain while all valves are turned off
• Have a professional check roof surface for blistering • Unscrew shower head and rinse out debris periodically
and cracking at flashing and chimney caps • Replace any cracked or hollow sounding tiles in
• Hire a chimney sweep to clean and inspect chimneys kitchens and bathrooms, caulk missing grout to
once a year for animal nests and soot build up prevent water penetration
• Repair cracks in sidewalks and steps • Check all vents, especially at the dryer, so they are
• Trim back all plants seasonally to keep them from free of dust and blockages, and have no tears
attaching themselves to the house • Check and replace cracked or brittle washer hoses
• Call PECO to trim trees that are touching electrical • Inspect water heater inside for rust and clean out
wires: 1-800-494-4000 debris annually by draining the tank as described
in the owner’s manual

Electrical
• Look inside electrical panel to check for scorch marks
• With power off, secure any loose receptacles and
outlet covers
• Test grounded outlets regularly by pushing the
“test” and “reset” buttons

40 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

 Heating & Cooling Systems How Much Can You Do Yourself?
• Schedule regular furnace and air conditioner This manual is intended to provide rowhouse owners
maintenance who are not building experts with practical advice
• Change or clean filters regularly about taking care of their homes. Some projects look
• Check all hose connections for leaks and make
simple at the outset, but if something unanticipated
sure condensate tubes are draining freely happens, you need to call in a contractor to put your
house back together. Remember that your time has
• Brush or vacuum radiators, baseboard heating units
value as well, and sometimes it just makes more sense
or forced-air heating vents every three months to call in a professional even if you think you can
during the heating season do it yourself.
• Keep a 12-inch area around registers clear of
any objects Do-It-Yourself Projects:
• Check area around radiators for signs of leaking • changing filters
• Maintain clearance around condensing units • installing weatherstripping
for maximum efficiency
• replacing a screen
• painting
Energy Saving Measures
For every dollar the typical family spends on home Projects Better Left to the Pros:
energy, almost half goes to heating the home. And
• masonry cleaning and repair
for every one degree a thermostat is turned down,
heating costs are reduced by 3 percent—a good reason • re-pointing
to put a sweater on first and keep the thermostat set • roof repair or replacement
at the lowest level that is comfortable. A starting • structural repairs
place is 68 degrees or lower in the day and 55 degrees • installation of through the wall or roof exhaust fans
or lower at night. Old thermostats are not always
• floor refinishing, electrical and plumbing work
accurate, and a heat anticipating or electronic
thermostat is worth the modest cost. Thermostats
with timers can lower heat while you are away at
work, for example, turning it up to normal just
before your return. Always turn down the heat if
you leave the house for more than an hour.
• Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent
ones, more expensive to buy but they cost much
less to run and last longer
• Turn off lights you don’t need
• Shade south- and west-facing windows during
the hottest parts of the day with blinds or drapery
• Group cooking, showers and dryer loads if you can,
it is more efficient than spacing them out over the day
• Feel for drafts around windows and doors and
caulk any cracks where cold air seeps in or replace
weather stripping. Pulley holes on old double-hung
windows can be taped over to reduce drafts
• Keep fireplace dampers or glass doors closed
when not in use. A renovation underway in Gray’s Ferry

www.philaplanning.org 41
 Renovations & Additions
More complex projects require the help of a Architect
professional. The following are some of the people An architect is the one professional with the training,
who can provide you with expert advice. experience, and vision to guide clients through
the entire design and construction process. Only an
Contractor individual with a state-issued license to practice
General contractors manage the budget and architecture may use the title “architect”.
schedule for a project and hire subcontractors in • Many local architects are members of the American
specific areas of expertise (plumber, tilesetter, etc) Institute of Architects, which provides an index of
• Only licensed contractors are allowed to work professionals who work with homeowners to renovate
on projects that require a building permit their rowhouses at www.aiaphiladelphia.org/find. Not
• Angie’s List is an online subscription service with all architects are members of the AIA, and can be
detailed recommendations for home repair services found in the Yellow Pages or on-line.
in your area. • A designer or interior decorator will be useful when
• Seek recommendations from friends and neighbors. you need help finding furniture, window treatments,
and selecting a color scheme for non-structural
improvements to your home.

HALKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

HALKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC
JEFFREY TOTARO/ESTO

Clockwise from top left: Interface Studio, LLC; QB3 Architects, LLC; WeberandCompany Architects; BFive Studio

42 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

 Landscape Architect
• A professional who holds a degree in landscape
architecture, which involves training in horticulture,
landscape design and planning.

Engineer

HALKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

• A licensed professional with education and certification
in a particular area (structural, mechanical, etc).
www.pacode.com/secure/data/049/chapter37/s37.31.html
Other design professionals may offer useful advice,
but may not call themselves architects or engineers
without state licensure.

Keys to Success When Working

with Professionals
• Know what you want, express your wishes

HALKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

clearly, ask for clarifications of things you
don’t understand
• Have a realistic budget, as well as a 10-15 percent
contingency fund. The unknown inevitably appears
when renovating old houses.
• Interview several architects and builders before
committing to working with them. Check
references, visit completed projects.
• Sign a contract that clearly defines the scope of
work for the professional and a payment schedule.
• Protect areas not affected by construction,
or for big jobs, move out for the messiest phases
HALKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

of work.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Working

with Professionals
• Don’t try to be your own general contractor.
• Don’t micro-manage, don’t substitute your
judgment for a professional’s.
• Don’t work with relatives or friends—business
disagreements often become personal.
GREGORY BENSON, PHOTOGRAPHY

• Don’t work without a written contract.

HALKIN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

• Don’t put down more than a 20 percent deposit

before work starts.
• Don’t release more than 95 percent of the total cost
before work is complete to your satisfaction.
Top to bottom: QB3 Architects, LLC; Kass & Associates;
Brett Weber Architects PC; James Oleg Kruhly & Associates;
Atkin Olshin Schade Architects

www.philaplanning.org 43
Permits And Codes
Building codes have been developed to assure that a review committee or offer assistance. A new Zoning
structures are built well and are safe for occupancy. Code Commission is currently reviewing the Zoning
Zoning codes are written to regulate where certain Code and making recommendations for its reform
types of building uses should be located (separating and change. Visit www.zoningmatters.org
residential from industrial and commercial uses, Some permits can be obtained online and do not
for example), and what shape the buildings should require the submission of drawings: roof coverings,
take, specifying maximum height and area, distances window replacement in existing openings, porch floor
from property lines and similar criteria. The Zoning replacement and nonstructural interior demolition.
Code also regulates parking. The requirements of (If you don’t know what’s structural—meaning it
both codes are legally binding. holds up your house—and what’s not, seek professional
In Philadelphia, a building permit is required for new assistance before applying for the permit.) These EZ
construction, additions, alterations, demolitions, and Permits or WebPermits can be obtained online at
some repairs. Contractors can obtain a permit if they the L&I website.
are licensed by the City. Otherwise, the homeowner The National Park Service has a series of
will be responsible for obtaining the permit and technical publications and useful preservation
making sure the project is completed according to briefs, some of which are free, at
the permit—expertise you may not have. www.nps.gov/history/hps/tps/technotes/tnhome.htm.
For alterations costing $10,000 or more, drawings
of proposed construction and additions must be
submitted with the seal or stamp of a licensed architect
or engineer, see p. 42
Construction in Philadelphia must comply with
the International Code Council’s International HISTORIC PROPERTIES: Altering historically designated
Residential Code, published every three years, and structures requires pre-authorization and a different
local amendments which are available at approval process. Check to see if your property is listed
on the City’s Historical Register before beginning work:
www.phila.gov/LI/codes/BuildingCode2007.pdf. www.phila.gov/historical/index.html, 215-686-7660
The Philadelphia Zoning Code can be downloaded
from the City of Philadelphia website:
www.amlegal.com/library/pa/philadelphia.shtml.
To find what how your home is classified, find
your address on the Zoning maps visible at
http://citymaps.phila.gov/Zoning/
The City of Philadelphia has recently streamlined
the permit process for homeowners. Many questions
you have may have can be answered by visiting
http://webapps.phila.gov/li/. Permits are obtained at
Licenses and Inspections (L&I) on the Concourse
Level of the Municipal Services Building.
Many neighborhood civic organizations can advise
you on what to prepare to apply for a building permit. The Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia has
Some keep a list of recommended contractors. If produced "How to Navigate the Historical Review
Process in Philadelphia; A Guide for Property Owners"
your work requires a zoning variance, consult your which you can download at www.preservationalliance.com/
neighborhood civic organization, which may have pulblications/CitizensGuide_updated.pdf

44 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

This is one of the manuals published by the City to guide owners of historic properties in
their home improvements. The information is valuable for any old houses. This, and manuals
for other districts, can be downloaded at www.phila.gov/historical/base.html

This pamphlet is among many useful guides to the city’s permit process. It was produced by the
Foundation for Architecture, and is available thanks to the Community Design Collaborative.
You can download it at www.philadelphiacfa.org.

www.philaplanning.org 45
Resources
The following is a partial list of Carbon Monoxide PECO
some of the many useful sources www.exeloncorp.com/ourcompanies/
of information and products for Carbon monoxide is an odorless, peco/recores
the rowhouse owner. colorless toxic gas, often released by
poorly maintained appliances, like Philadelphia Gas Works
furnaces or water heaters. The first www.pgworks.com
Accessible Housing line of defense is to regularly maintain
HOUSING AND DISABILITY TECHNICAL
these appliances. Carbon monoxide
detectors (some in combination with Fire Safety
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
smoke detectors) are widely available. Change the batteries twice a year
Information about accessible rental
and homeownership housing, fair www.epa.gov/iaq/co.html on your smoke detectors. Practice an
housing laws, financial and technical emergency exit. Have a look at
resources and other issues. the useful Home Fire Safety Checklist:
Community Gardens
Philadelphia Office of Housing U.S. Fire Administration
Neighborhood Gardens Association/ www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/
and Community Development
Philadelphia Land Trust home_fire_prev/alarms/
215-576-1150, ext. 4
For Philadelphians lacking enough
www.newsontap.org
space for their own garden, more
than 29 community gardens offer Funding for Home Repairs
Building Materials neighbors small plots for their own
Before you sign for a home-
use. You can raise cut flowers or grow
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN improvement loan, check out these
enough vegetables to feed a family.
Greenable free home-repair programs as well
Some are so popular they have
as the city’s low-interest rate loan
126 Market Street waiting lists. If your neighborhood
program. Income guidelines and
Philadelphia doesn’t have a community garden,
other eligibility requirements apply.
215-922-6066 think about starting one: Contact
www.greenable.net the Neighborhood Gardens
BASIC SYSTEMS REPAIR PROGRAM
Association/Philadelphia Land
The Environmental Home Store Free adaptations to house or
Trust go to www.ngalandtrust.org/
550 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia or call 215-988-8797 apartment of physically disabled
215-844-4733 homeowners and renters.
www.enironmentalhomestore.com Philadelphia Housing
Definitions Development Corporation
REPRODUCTION BUILDING MATERIALS
Can't tell the difference between 215-448-2160
Period Homes
a mullion and a muntin? Or www.phdchousing.org
The professional’s Resource for a banister and a baluster? Useful
Residential Architecture information can be found in the EMERGENCY HEATER HOTLINE
www.period-homes.com Free minor heater repairs.
Old-House Dictionary
by Steven J. Phillips or go to Energy Coordinating Agency
ARCHITECTURAL SALVAGE
www.doityourself.com of Philadelphia
Recycling the Past
www.thisoldhouse.com Homeowners: 215-568-7190
Barnegat, NJ Renters: 215-686-2590
www.recyclingthepast.com www.ecasavesenergy.org
Provenance Energy Conservation
1610 Fairmount Ave., You can save money by installing HISTORIC PROPERTIES
REPAIR PROGRAM
Philadelphia, PA 19130 energy-conservation features in
1-215-769-1817 your home. Following is a partial list Grants for exterior repairs and
www.oldsoularchitecturalsalvage.com of local agencies that provide free restoration work to owner-occupied
energy cost-cutting advice. homes to maintain neighborhood’s
historic character.
Energy Coordinating Agency
of Philadelphia The Preservation Alliance for
215-988-0929 Greater Philadelphia
www.ecasavesenergy.org 215-546-1146, ext. 2
www.preservationalliance.com/
Philadelphia Housing programs/historic-repair-grant.php
Development Corporation
Free weatherization and energy-
efficient improvements to
owner-occupied and rental units.
215-448-2160
www.phdchousing.org

46 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

PHILADELPHIA HOME IMPROVEMENT
LOANS (PHIL)
Low-interest home improvement
loans up to $25,000 to
qualified homeowners through
participating banks.
Philadelphia Redevelopment
Authority
877-487-4452
www.PhilaLoan.com

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT

10-year tax exemption on increased
value of renovated home.
City of Philadelphia
215-686-4334
www.brtweb.phila.gov

SENIOR HOUSING ASSISTANCE

REPAIR PROGRAM (SHARP)
Free minor repairs to homes of
elderly Philadelphians.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
215-765-9040
www.pcacares.org

Homeownership
These programs are designed to help
you purchase a home for the first time
in Philadelphia. Income guidelines
and eligibility requirements apply.

AMERICAN DREAM
DOWNPAYMENT INITIATIVE
Up to $10,000 toward down
payment and closing costs to
qualified first-time buyers in specific
new-construction developments
or specific rehabilitated houses.

SETTLEMENT GRANT ASSISTANCE

Up to $800 toward closing costs to
qualified first-time buyers of
Philadelphia homes. Must apply to an
approved housing counseling agency
before signing an agreement of sale.
Philadelphia Office of Housing and
Community Development
www.phila.gov/ohcd
215-686-9723

SHERIFF SALES
Tax-delinquent properties are
sold to the highest bidder at
public auction.
Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office
www.phillysheriff.com
215-686-3535

www.philaplanning.org 47
Housing Counseling Radon Trash & Recycling
Housing counseling agencies, Although professional testing TRASH DAY—BEING NEIGHBORLY;
located in neighborhoods citywide, is always the most reliable, home HANDLING IT LEGALLY
provide free pre- and post-purchase monitoring devices are available Trash and recycling should be set out
counseling to first-time homebuyers. from many websites, such as: after 7 PM the night before collection
Services include counseling regarding www.healthgoods.com/Shopping/ day and before 7 AM the next morning
predatory loans, mortgage foreclosures Home_Test_Kits/Radon_Testing.asp at your regularly scheduled pickup
and reverse mortgages. Income site. If a pickup falls on a holiday, put
www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/citguide.html
guidelines and other eligibility the trash out the day after. If you are
requirements apply. unsure of your collection day, call the
Safety Streets Department at 215-686-5560.
DON’T BORROW TROUBLE HOTLINE Place trash on your property.
Predatory lenders try to high- Operation Town Watch
Residents are required to keep their
pressure you into signing for a loan Town Watch groups proactively property and the sidewalk free of
with excessive fees and penalties. take charge of reducing crime in trash and litter. Sweep litter into proper
Call the hotline for free advice their neighborhoods. Operation containers, never into the street.
BEFORE borrowing against your Town Watch, helps residents work
Clearing sidewalks of snow is also a
house for home improvements, with police to reduce crime and
resident’s responsibility. No later than
mortgage refinancing or debt drug-related activity.
six hours after the end of a snowfall
consolidation. Also call the hotline www.phila.gov/townwatch/contact.html or freezing rain, you must clear a
if you think you’ve been a victim. or call 215-686-1453. path at least 30 inches wide. Do not
Office of Housing and shovel the snow into the street.
Community Development Street Trees City of Philadelphia, Customer
www.phila.gov/ohcd Affairs Unit
SELECTING TREES
215-523-9520 www.phila.gov/streets/sweep.html
Street trees not only beautify a block,
215-686-5560
they add to a home’s value. You
Lead Poisoning can obtain a list of species best for RECYCLING
Philadelphia’s climate from the
Houses more than 25 years old often The City of Philadelphia requires that
Fairmount Park Commission. The
have paint, soil or dust containing all households recycle. Containers
Commission is also responsible for
lead which, if ingested by young are provided for storage during the
the planting, maintenance and
children, can cause brain damage. week. You can recycle more materials
removal of all street trees.
(plastics, cardboard, etc) at certain
CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING Fairmount Park Commission locations throughout the city.
PREVENTION PROGRAM www.fairmountpark.org/streettree.asp Recycling Alliance of Philadelphia
Arranges inspection, risk assessment 215-685-4363
www.cleanair.org/recyclingalliance/
and lead-hazard abatement of privately
owned housing where children under TREE CARE TRAINING
6 have been identified as lead-poisoned Offers free courses such as Windows
or at risk for lead poisoning. Tree Tenders and TreeVitalize.
HARD TO FIND WINDOW PARTS
City of Philadelphia The Pennsylvania
1-800-842-0974
www.phila.gov/health/units/lead Horticultural Society
www.windowrepairsystems.com
215-685-2797 www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.
org/phlgreen/city_gardner.html STORM WINDOWS
215-988-8844 www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_
home/windows_doors_skylights/index
.cfm/mytopic=13490
www.img.diynetwork.com/DIY/2003/
09/18/hes101_3fr_e.jpg

48 Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual

 The diagram we used throughout the manual is based on a full sized model house that was built in
1893 for the World’s Fair in Chicago. Philadelphia was known as the City of Homes.

“The two-story dwellings of this city are, beyond all question, the best, as a system, not only owing to the
single family ideas they represent, but because their cost is within the reach of all who desire to own
their own homes. They have done more to elevate and to make a better home life than any other known
influence. They typify a higher civilization, as well as a truer idea of American home life, and are better,
purer, sweeter than any tenement house systems that ever existed. They are what make Philadelphia
a city of homes, and command the attention of visitors from every quarter of the globe.”
FRANK H. TAYLOR, ED,. THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA AS IT APPEARS IN THE YEAR 1894, 2ND ED. (PHILA, 1894)

Between 1887 and 1892, nearly 45,000 new houses were built, most of which were rowhouses, worth an
average of $3,000. Many of them were variations on this two story model. More citizens owned their own
single family homes in Philadelphia during this time than any other major American city. Because of the
growing industrial production in the City, good affordable housing for working people was a necessity.
Between 2001 and 2006, 1,350 new homes were built, at an average cost of $160,000 each.
 PHILADELPHIA ROWHOUSE MANUAL: A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR HOMEOWNERS

Philadelphia
Rowhouse Manual
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Office of Housing and Community Development
Philadelphia City Planning Commission