Living in an older home has many benefits. Older homes can feature stylish architecture and luxury features, like hardwood flooring, and are often situated on larger lots of land. These features are attractive to many home buyers, but the idea of remodeling an older home can sometimes be a deterrent. Remodeling an older home can provide tremendous value for homeowners who seek a unique, modern living space while keeping a home’s history intact. Let’s take a look at important considerations when remodeling an older home.
Foundation
The process of laying a foundation has changed significantly in the past 30-50 years. Homes that are much older may need to have the foundation inspected or fortified before starting the interior remodeling process. Depending on the home’s original construction, changes in soil, home usage, and climate can lead to deterioration of the foundation over time. Before starting the remodeling process, it’s a good idea to have your home’s foundation inspected and possibly repaired.
Removal of Toxic Substances
If a home was originally built in the late 1970’s or earlier, there’s a good chance the home contains lead-based paint or asbestos. In fact, until the early 1980’s many pipes were still soldered with materials containing lead. In the process of remodeling, exposure to these substances can lead to serious health problems. Furthermore, the remaining lead can travel through water and soil, potentially contaminating food and water. Prior to starting a Columbus home remodeling project, contact a restoration specialist to discuss the risks associated with asbestos and lead-based paint.
Water Damage
Over time, water damage can lead to mold and mildew buildup inside a home’s structure. Many homeowners do not realize the extent to which their home has been damaged until they begin the remodeling process. If left untreated, water damage not only encourages the growth of mold but also facilitates the growth of bacteria and termite infestation. To safely restore an older home, homeowners need to ensure areas damaged by water are replaced.
Plumbing and Electrical Restoration
Unlike modern homes, older homes typically include outdated plumbing and electrical systems. For the sake of energy efficiency, many homeowners choose to update these features of an older home during the remodeling process. While this can add costs to a remodeling project, it saves homeowners from higher energy costs in the long run.
Windows and Doors
Older homes often have more windows and doors than modern homes, as many older homes were not built with air conditioning systems. If not replaced, an older home’s original windows and doors may not provide the protection from the elements they once did. As a result, remodeling an older home without updating the windows and doors can lead to reduced energy efficiency and pest infestation.
Working with Professionals
Although homeowners may want to undertake projects themselves, remodeling an older home poses potentially serious safety risks. Most importantly, choosing to work with professional home restoration specialists in Columbus, Ohio allows homeowners to ensure their remodeling projects will stand the test of time.
Are you considering remodeling your older home in Columbus? Contact RH Homes today for a free consultation.
