If you have acquired a heritage home or bought an old house because of your tight budget, you will have to make some arrangements around the house. You need to be aware of the pitfalls and key problems that could arise.
Since old houses are prone to problems, it’s important to know what to look out for and how many underlying issues might affect your budget. Arrange an inspection for your property so you know what you’re letting yourself into. Like you may need to renovate the kitchen and install new Roofing before you move in.
Here are some tasks that you will likely run into during your renovation journey.
Leaky Roof
When buying the house, look for cracked tiles, crumbling cement, and loose flashing. Since it is an old house, you may have to replace the deteriorating roof that’s no longer watertight.
Look for moisture in loft insulation, water stains on the floor, and rotten timbers. Also, inspect the underside of the roof for cracks of daylight. Hire experienced services for home roof installation that can last up to many years.
Inefficient Heating System
If the heating system is outdated, it can lead to cold and drafty houses. Even if the house has a strong roof, there might be issues elsewhere in the house. Poor insulation in the attic or uninsulated gaps between the floorboards might be the issue.
Even if the insulation system is repaired, you need to replace the old boiler or fit pipes for underfloor heating.
Unsafe Electrical Wiring
Old electric wires can be vulnerable to faults and even pose a serious fire hazard in the home. You should look out for outdated fuse boxes, plug sockets, and faded light switches.
Consider replacing them with new ones to avoid any power outages. Hire a professional electrician to carry out the electrical tasks.
Mold and Damp
Poor ventilation and excess moisture over time can lead to dampness, mold, and mildew which can negatively impact indoor air quality. Mold spores in the air can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and other health concerns. Testing the air quality, with the help of a service specializing in Air Quality Testing in Danbury, CT, can help determine the extent of mold contamination and whether remediation is needed.
If you see any signs of mold, start by identifying the source. Examine the exterior from the top down, checking the chimney, roof, and underside of the roof. Damage to these areas may prevent proper drainage, allowing moisture to seep in.
Next, inspect window frames for damage and check for cavity walls, as debris buildup over time can trap moisture, increasing the risk of mold growth.
Plumbing Issues
If you leave the leaky pipes as it is, they can cause severe damage to the walls and foundation of the home. Get help from a professional to identify any plumbing issues in the house.
Check where the plumbing pipes start and see the color to identify if there is any problem. If the lead pipework has turned silver then it is likely scraped. If the property includes trees, then check if any pipework was damaged by roots, especially the sewage system.