There is something special about an old home. Maybe it’s the character that comes with age or the feeling of history surrounding it. Whatever it is, there is a certain allure to restoring an old home. However, if you’re thinking of buying and restoring an old house, there are some things you need to know first. This blog post will discuss some vital things you need to know before making such a big purchase:
Mold And Mildew:
One of the first things you need to be aware of when buying an old home is the potential for mold and mildew. These can often be found in older homes, particularly in damp or humid areas. If not addressed, mold and mildew can cause serious health problems for you and your family. Be sure to have a professional inspect the home for mold and mildew before making a purchase.
Mold spores are everywhere – in the air, surfaces, and dust. When these spores land on a wet or moist surface, they start to grow. Mold needs four things to grow: A food source (like wood, paper, or carpet), warmth, oxygen, moisture, or water. Mold can cause a lot of problems for your health like respiratory problems, headaches, and skin irritation. So if you have mold in your home, it’s essential to get rid of it as soon as possible with the best mold remediation company. Yours and your family’s health depends on it.
You can prevent mold by:
- Controlling humidity levels
- Fixing leaks ASAP
- Cleaning up any spills immediately
- Ventilating damp areas like the bathroom and laundry room
- Using an air conditioner or dehumidifier (especially in humid climates)
Plumbing Issues:
Older homes often have outdated or inefficient plumbing that can cause various problems. These problems can range from minor leaks to complete system failures. Be sure to have a professional inspect the home’s plumbing before making a purchase. Common plumbing problems include leaky pipes, low water pressure, clogged drains, frequent clogs, and outdated fixtures.
If not adequately addressed, these problems can lead to more significant issues like flooding or sewage backup. They can also be expensive to fix, so it’s important to be aware of them and have an emergency plumbing service on speed dial before making a purchase.
You can prevent plumbing problems by:
- Regularly inspecting pipes for leaks
- Fixing leaks and drips as soon as they’re found
- Cleaning out drains and gutters regularly
- Installing a water filtration system
- Use low-flow fixtures when possible.
Problems With Roofing:
Another common issue in older homes is roofing problems. This is because roofs are constantly exposed to the elements and they can start to deteriorate over time. Be sure to have a professional inspect the home’s roof before making a purchase. Common roofing problems include missing or damaged shingles, leaks, holes, and sagging. If not adequately addressed, these problems can seriously damage your home and be expensive to fix.
Poor Insulation and Drafty Windows:
One of the things you’ll notice almost immediately upon moving into an old home is how poorly insulated it is. This can be a serious problem, especially during winter when energy bills skyrocket. You’ll often find that the windows are single paned and provide very little protection against the cold. You might also notice cracks and gaps around doors and windows that let in drafts. Insulation and energy-efficient windows are two of the first things you should tackle when restoring an old home.
If your budget doesn’t allow for new windows right away, there are some things you can do to improve the situation. Caulking and weather-stripping are relatively inexpensive ways to seal cracks and gaps. You can also install storm windows over your existing windows to provide an extra layer of protection against the cold.
Outdated/Inefficient HVAC Systems:
Another common problem in old homes is an outdated or inefficient HVAC system. This can be a significant expense to replace, so you’ll want to consider it when budgeting for your restoration project. However, simply upgrading to a more efficient system will often suffice. This can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills.
If your HVAC system is beyond repair, there are some things you can do to make it more efficient. For example, adding insulation to your attic and crawl spaces can help keep heat from escaping through the roof and walls. You might also consider installing a programmable thermostat to better control the temperature in your home. Both measures can help reduce your energy consumption and save you money on your utility bills.
Foundation/Structure Issues:
If you find yourself with a home with foundation or structural problems, there are some things you can do to mitigate the damage. For example, installing supports and braces can help stabilize the structure and prevent further damage. You might also consider having a professional waterproof the basement to prevent moisture from causing further damage.
Dangerous Electrical Systems:
Old wiring is a common problem in old homes. It’s usually made of cloth or rubber, which degrades over time. This can cause shorts and fires. You should have an electrician inspect the wiring and update it to current standards. Even if you plan on doing some of the work yourself, having professionals check things out first is best.
Another electrical hazard is knob-and-tube wiring. This was common in homes built before 1950. It consists of ceramic knobs that support insulated tubes that run through your walls. The problem with this type of wiring is that it doesn’t have a ground wire. That means if there’s a short, nothing stops the electricity from flowing through your walls and starting a fire. Again, you’ll need an electrician to take care of this.
You should keep a few things in mind before buying and restoring an old home. First, although it may be a lot of work, it can be a very rewarding experience. With a bit of research and planning, you can end up with a beautiful and unique home that you will enjoy for many years to come!
Featured Image By: Pexels
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