The renovation of an old property may be a good investment, as it might include traditional design features, tall ceilings, a good location and lots of space, which is not available in newly constructed homes. Renovating a home is a thrilling process, but chances are high that one will face some unexpected hurdles when renovating an ancestral property or an old property which is more than 30 years old.
In this article we give you tips on spotting the potential dangers that can arise during the renovation of older homes.
Damage Due To Moisture
Seepage from water and dampness can damage old-construction homes, especially in areas of high rainfall. Hire an experienced waterproofing consultant with a proven track record to identify and seal the damaged walls with new plaster, then apply waterproofing compounds to control dampness. Additionally, the installation of new or refurbished pipes, as well as proper ventilation during the renovation of the home, will greatly improve its overall quality.
The cracks in wooden doors and windows can lead to water seepage and moisture. Replacing them with new-age UPVC windows will replicate the look of wood, but at a fraction of the cost.
The building may also be damaged by the growth of mold, mildew, or an active termite infestation. It is recommended to get rid of the damaged wood that is infested by termites.Get a pest control service which provides specialized treatments to exterminate termites.
Cracked Foundation
Problems with the foundation of a building can be particularly devastating when the house is an ancestral property that is more than 60 years old. Cracks in a foundation may be caused by water retention or sinking soil beneath the building.
Leaking Plumbing Lines
Old buildings with their antiquated galvanized plumbing suffer from high levels of corrosion to the piping within. It is essential to replace the corroded pipes with PVC piping, ensuring that you do not experience plumbing leaks as a result of using the old galvanized pipes.
Poor Workmanship
Prior to renovation work, you should inspect the interiors and exteriors of the building for poor workmanship and take adequate measures to rectify the same.
Old electrical wiring
Home appliances that didn’t exist when a building was built like geysers, air conditioners, and microwave ovens can send too strong an electrical current through old wiring, causing fire hazards.
As an essential part of any remodelling project, hiring an experienced electrical contractor to upgrade the electrical system will allow for better lighting and safer wiring.The load calculation of the electrical wiring depends on the number of electrical fixtures and appliances that will be used in the house.
Install enough electrical outlets in the master bathroom, kitchen and other areas of the home to support all the appliances.
Outdated layout
Some older houses’ design prevents the maximization of space. The interiors should be redesigned to improve living conditions without changing the structure of the building.
Choose an interior designer to modify the layout of an old house, so that it is functional and appropriate for a modern lifestyle. Some of the typical features of an old house are a small closed kitchen, narrow hallways, and other items that can be adjusted by a good designer.
