Bringing History Back to Life: Handcrafted Storm Doors for a Historic Canandaigua Home
By Burky’s Woodwork – Geneva, NY
There’s something special about working on a historic home. These homes have a soul — a story that’s been shaped over generations — and when you add or restore any part of them, it has to be done with care, respect, and craftsmanship.
Recently, I had the opportunity to design and build a pair of custom storm doors for a beautiful historic home right in the heart of Canandaigua, NY. This project wasn’t just about building doors. It was about honoring the past while creating something strong enough to last well into the future.
Respecting the History Behind the Build
Historic homes aren’t typical builds. Every fixture, every hinge, every line tells a story. The goal for these storm doors was clear:
✔️ Match the original architecture
✔️ Preserve the home’s historic character
✔️ Use authentic materials, not modern reproductions
✔️ Build doors durable enough for New York’s tough winters
Before any wood was cut, I spent time studying the home, its trim, its style, and its existing craftsmanship. You can’t rush into a project like this — you have to understand the home before you can enhance it.
Sourcing Authentic Antique Hardware
One of the most rewarding parts of this build was tracking down true antique hardware. Historic doors deserve historic components, not mass-produced replicas.
I reached out to antique experts across state lines, made new friendships, learned more about rare hardware pieces, and sourced real, era-appropriate parts. No reproductions — just authentic history restored to life.
These details matter. They’re what make the final piece look like it’s always belonged there.
Craftsmanship That Blends Past and Present
The storm doors were built using premium hardwood, carefully milled to match classic profiles and proportions. Every joint, every bevel, and every panel was built intentionally — the way craftsmen did it generations ago.
For the finish, I used Rubio Monocoat’s DuroGrit, a durable and highly weather-resistant coating that’s perfect for doors facing harsh New York winters. It protects the wood while letting its natural beauty show through, making the doors both functional and timeless.
The Final Result
The finished storm doors look like they were always part of the house — blending seamlessly into the historic facade while offering modern durability.
Projects like this are why I love woodworking. It’s not just building something new — it’s connecting with the past, honoring the style of the home, and creating something that will last for decades.
Have a Historic Home That Needs Custom Woodwork?
Whether it’s storm doors, entry doors, built-ins, or custom cabinetry, Burky’s Woodwork can help you bring craftsmanship and authenticity back into your home.
📍 Based in Geneva, NY
🏡 Serving Rochester, the Finger Lakes, and shipping nationwide
💬 Reach out anytime — I’d love to help bring your vision to life.
