Reconstruction in Portland, OR: what we see locally
Portland is the largest city in Oregon, with around 635,000 residents and dramatically varied housing stock. The east side has dense neighborhoods of Craftsman bungalows from the 1900s–1920s; the southwest has 1950s mid-century and modern hillside homes; northwest has converted warehouses in the Pearl plus older single-family in Nob Hill.
Portland's older housing stock means significant pre-1940 construction with plaster walls, original supply lines, and unique restoration considerations. Lead paint and lath/plaster require specific demolition handling. Many homes have full basements that flood during heavy rain or sewer-backup events.
Portland's combined sewer/stormwater system in older parts of the city is particularly susceptible to backups during heavy rain. The city has invested in separated systems over the last two decades but combined sections remain in many central neighborhoods.
Typical reconstruction scenario in Portland: Portland reconstruction frequently involves pre-1940 Craftsman details — original plaster walls, lath construction, period-specific trim profiles, hardwood floors that need careful matching. We carry the trade depth and material sourcing for pre-war residential work.
