redoing attic in two hundred year old nj colonial

[amapl]

Current situation: Finished walk-up attic with fibreboard in varying states of disrepair over fiberglass/wool? batts(probably done in the

60's) in the walls and roof. Attic has no soffit vents only two gable vents at either end. Clapboard is nailed directly to wall studs. HVAC unit located in attic that supplies second floor and attic (currently kept closed). No return in attic. Roof is approx 5 years old. Want to rip the whole thing out and start over. How should I proceed? Need some ideas before talking to the contractor since most aren't used to the peculiarities of old house.

[Malcolm Hoar]

Sounds like a sizable and complex job with pleanty of scope for major c*ck-ups. I'd seriously consider talking to an architect, esp. if you can find a positive recommendation, say from a neighbor that has done a large remodel.