An old building may have an old-world charm, traditional design elements, tall ceilings, a good locational advantage, and a lot of space that is not available in newly constructed homes, making the purchase and renovation of an old building a wise investment. Although remodeling a home is usually an exciting process, it’s likely that one will run into some unforeseen difficulties when renovating an ancestral home or an older, more than thirty-year-old property. This article will alert you to potential hidden issues that may surface when renovating an older home.
Damage due to moisture
One of the main issues with older homes is water seepage. Leaky plumbing lines, the walls, and the roof are potential entry points for water leaks. It is important to hire a waterproofing consultant who can locate the damaged walls and seal them using fresh plaster and damp-controlling compounds. As you renovate the house, replace any leaky pipes and make sure there is adequate ventilation. Moisture and water seepage may come from the gaps in wooden windows and doors. Selecting contemporary uPVC windows that mimic the appearance of wood is advised. The development of mold, mildew, or an active termite infestation—which loves moist environments—could also cause damage to the building. It is advised to dispose of the termite-infested damaged wood. Select a pest control company that offers specialized termite treatment services.
Cracks in the foundation
Visible fissures in the building’s foundation are another serious issue, particularly if the residence is an ancestor’s over 60-year-old home. Typically, water retention in the foundation or settling soil beneath the structure cause cracks to appear. Select a qualified structural engineer who can examine the structure, spot any cracks, and resolve any structural issues the building may have.
Outdated plumbing lines
Antiquated galvanized plumbing pipes found in older buildings corrode with time. New PVC pipes must be installed in place of all the galvanized pipes.
Poor workmanship
Examine the building’s exterior and interior for poor workmanship before beginning any renovations, and then take the necessary steps to fix it.
Old electrical wiring
The weight of contemporary home appliances, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, microwaves, gadgets, and geysers, is too much for the electrical wiring of an older structure. It is imperative to upgrade the electrical system with the help of an experienced electrical contractor because outdated electrical fittings can be dangerous and cause a fire. The number of electrical fixtures, appliances, and air conditioners that must run in parallel throughout the house determines how much load the electrical wiring must support. To support all the appliances, replace all the switchboards and add enough plug outlets to the kitchen, bathroom, and other rooms of the house.
Outdated layout
The outdated floor plans of some older homes don’t make the most of available space. Consequently, it is imperative to rearrange the area without interfering with the building’s structure. Hire an interior designer who can reconfigure the space to make the home practical and suited for a contemporary way of life. Older homes typically have narrow hallways, a small, closed kitchen, and other characteristics.
Before beginning any renovations, have London planning consultants inspect the property. The work will be completed more smoothly with the assistance of the professionals. Make sure you have enough money set aside for unforeseen expenses when renovating older homes by creating a budget and keeping enough money on hand.
