Home Blog Living History: Restoring and Maintaining a Historic Home in Mazatlán and Mérida Living History: Restoring and Maintaining a Historic Home in Mazatlán and Mérida by Brent May January 27, 2025 by Brent May 55 Owning a historic home in Mexico is both a privilege and a challenge. In Mazatlán, with its vibrant historic center, and Mérida, renowned for its colonial charm, buyers are often captivated by the idea of preserving a tangible piece of history. These homes, whether adorned with neoclassical flourishes or Art Deco details, reflect the architectural heritage of their cities. But ensuring these treasures endure requires a thoughtful and methodical approach to restoration and maintenance. Let’s explore the practical steps to revitalize these properties while respecting their character and meeting modern needs. Navigating Regulations and Permissions Restoration starts with understanding the legal framework. Historic properties in Mexico are often protected under federal and municipal regulations. Both Mazatlán’s Centro Histórico and Mérida’s colonial districts fall under preservation laws aimed at safeguarding their architectural significance. Consult Local Authorities Early In Mazatlán, properties within the historic center are governed by the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) and the city’s historical preservation office. These agencies enforce restrictions on changes to facades, rooflines, and other significant features. In Mérida, owners of colonial homes may also need INAH approval for projects that alter the structural integrity or aesthetic of the building. Visit the municipal office to clarify what permits and approvals are required before starting any work. Understand What’s Non-Negotiable Exterior features such as original plaster, balconies, and cornices are often non-negotiable elements in protected properties. Altering these without permission can result in fines or legal issues. This is particularly important for international buyers unfamiliar with local laws. Embrace Collaboration Working with preservation officials ensures your plans align with local standards while avoiding costly delays. Open communication can also help identify grants or financial incentives for restoration projects, particularly in Mazatlán where initiatives to preserve the Centro Histórico are active. Restoring Architectural Integrity Historic homes in Mérida and Mazatlán are known for their distinctive architectural details. From pasta tile floors to intricate ironwork, these elements give the properties their character. Preserving them requires expertise and patience. Flooring and Tiles In Mérida, original pasta tiles are a defining feature of colonial homes. These hand-crafted tiles can often be salvaged, cleaned, and re-laid. Missing tiles can be replaced with reproductions made by local artisans. In Mazatlán, traditional clay tiles are also common and can be restored with care. Avoid replacing these with modern materials, as they detract from the authenticity of the home. Woodwork Wooden doors, windows, and beams in historic homes are often made of durable tropical hardwoods. Over time, they may suffer from layers of paint, termite damage, or general wear. Stripping paint to reveal the natural wood, treating for pests, and refinishing can restore their beauty. Collaborate with local carpenters who specialize in traditional techniques to ensure the results are true to the home’s origins. Plaster and Walls Lime-based plaster, commonly used in historic Mexican homes, is a breathable material that prevents moisture buildup—a key concern in both Mazatlán’s coastal climate and Mérida’s tropical environment. When repairing walls, use traditional lime-based stucco instead of modern acrylic products, which can trap moisture and lead to long-term damage. Ironwork and Metal Features In Mazatlán, wrought iron balconies, gates, and railings are a hallmark of historic homes. These features often require cleaning, rust removal, and a fresh coat of paint to restore their appearance and durability. Engage local metalworkers who understand the craftsmanship involved in creating these decorative elements. Incorporating Modern Comforts Living in a historic home doesn’t mean compromising on modern amenities. However, adding conveniences such as air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical upgrades requires a careful approach to preserve the home’s character. Electrical and Plumbing Many historic homes in Mérida and Mazatlán have outdated electrical and plumbing systems. Rewiring and installing modern plumbing are essential for safety and convenience but must be done with minimal disruption to the structure. Work with contractors experienced in retrofitting older properties to ensure compatibility with the existing architecture. Cooling and Ventilation Both cities have warm climates, with Mérida experiencing particularly high temperatures. While air conditioning is often necessary, it can be installed discreetly. Mini-split units, which are compact and efficient, are a popular choice. These can be mounted in unobtrusive locations or hidden behind decorative screens. To enhance natural ventilation, consider restoring original windows, installing ceiling fans, or using decorative celosías (wooden or stone latticework). Kitchen and Bathrooms Updating kitchens and bathrooms is often a priority for modern buyers. Retain the historic charm by incorporating traditional materials, such as Talavera tiles, natural stone countertops, and custom wooden cabinetry. Avoid overly modern designs that clash with the home’s aesthetic. Addressing Structural Challenges Older homes often come with hidden issues, from foundational cracks to roof leaks. Identifying and addressing these problems early can prevent costly repairs down the line. Foundations and Stability Many homes in Mérida are built on sascab, a porous limestone material that can shift over time. Foundation reinforcement may be necessary, particularly if the property has been neglected. In Mazatlán, the combination of age and coastal humidity can lead to structural wear. Hire a structural engineer to assess the home and recommend necessary reinforcements. Moisture Management High humidity in both cities can cause problems like mold, mildew, and water damage. Use lime-based plaster to allow walls to breathe, and ensure proper drainage around the property. In Mazatlán, periodic inspections for salt damage on masonry and metal are essential due to the proximity to the ocean. Roof Restoration Historic homes often have clay tile or flat roofs. These can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks. Repair or replace damaged tiles with matching materials, and ensure proper waterproofing to prevent further issues. Working with Local Craftspeople Both Mazatlán and Mérida are home to skilled artisans who specialize in restoring historic properties. Hiring local experts not only ensures quality results but also supports the community. Finding the Right Team Seek recommendations from real estate professionals, local architects, or other property owners who have undertaken similar projects. Look for craftspeople with experience in historic restoration, as they’ll understand the nuances of working with traditional materials and techniques. Custom Fabrication Many features of historic homes, such as custom tiles, ironwork, and carpentry, can be replicated or repaired by local artisans. This ensures that any replacements match the original design while preserving the property’s authenticity. Ongoing Maintenance Once restoration is complete, schedule regular maintenance to keep the property in good condition. This might include periodic inspections for pests, resealing plaster, and repainting surfaces exposed to the elements. Restoring a historic home often costs more than expected due to unforeseen issues and the need for specialized labor. Set aside 20-30% of your budget for contingencies. Materials like traditional lime plaster or custom pasta tiles can be expensive but are essential for preserving authenticity. Additionally, factor in the costs of permits, professional fees, and ongoing maintenance. Preserving the Soul of the Home Every historic home has a story, and your restoration should honor that legacy. In Mérida, this might mean retaining visible marks of past renovations, such as layers of lime wash in different colors. In Mazatlán, it could involve restoring a plaque that tells the story of the home’s original owners. By preserving these unique elements, you contribute to the cultural fabric of the city while creating a space that blends historical charm with modern comfort. Whether you’re investing in Mazatlán’s growing real estate market or embracing the tranquility of Mérida’s colonial streets, a restored historic home offers a living connection to Mexico’s rich past. Read more: How to Make Your Vacation Rental Property Eco-Friendly Etc 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail Brent May Brent May is the GM and Founder of Mexico Living. He is highly motivated and strives for excellence in order to provide the best service possible for foreigners buying property in Mexico. He understands some of the frustrations people may have while searching for a property in paradise and has learned from his own experiences buying and living in Mexico. Brent and his wife are grateful for the opportunities they have and to be able to live in a place most people vacation in. 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