The 7 Biggest Challenges to Overcome During Old Home Restorations
Discovering the challenges of a home restoration project prior to beginning one can help make the process much easier.
You’ve always dreamed about living in an older home that encapsulates the essence of the old days of yesteryear. The plaster walls, the original hardwood floors, and that sweet little picket fence stole your heart the moment you walked in. But now that it’s yours, it’s time to plan a home restoration project to fix the plaster walls that have cracked and the hardwood floors that have began showing their age.
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the challenges that lie ahead. Here’s everything you need to know so you can overcome them while restoring your old home.
1. It’s going to be more expensive than you think it will be.
One of the biggest challenges of restoring an old home back to its former glory is budgeting. Home renovations are expensive, but restorations come with a heftier price tag, especially if you require the approval of a Heritage Alteration Permit with the city of Kelowna. Before you plan the project, be sure to put aside a healthy amount of money.
2. Water damage will likely be the number one concern.
Older homes have a tendency to develop water problems. Things like mold and mildew are often plentiful and will need to be dealt with safely by home improvement contractors.
3. The foundation will probably need lots of attention.
Older homes are subject to more cracks in their foundation, simply because of the length of time they’ve been standing for. If the cracks are bad, you may even require the ground around the home to be dug up, which can become costly and tack more time onto the project.
4. There may be asbestos present, and it will need to be removed.
Older homes will require asbestos abatement services. Homes built before 1990 are subject to asbestos. Before you begin any kind of home remodelling or restoration, have your home tested for asbestos.
5. You may have to replace the current electricity system.
Older homes don’t usually meet today’s electrical standards. This means you’ll likely have to have your home rewired, the outlets may have to be relocated or removed, and the panel may need to be upgraded.
6. You’ll probably want to replace the windows.
If your home is still sporting the original windows, you’ll want to replace them. Besides being easier to see out of, new windows will help reduce your heating and cooling bills.
7. The home could be full of lead prior to the home restoration.
Whether it’s in the plumbing pipes or the paint, there’s a really good chance the home you’re planning on restoring is full of lead. A qualified renovation specialist and contractor can help ensure the lead is properly removed and that your home is safe for you and your family.
Planning on doing the work by yourself? Don’t make the same mistakes these homeowners did: 4 DIY Home Improvement Jobs Gone Really, Really Wrong.
If you’re looking for professional, qualified home improvement contractors to help you plan and execute a home restoration project, contact Rafter 4K Contracting. With almost 30 years’ experience in the industry, our team of professionals can help you with any home improvement project, big or small.
