When buying an old house, there are various factors you need to think about. Even homes that were built fifty years ago may have roofs that need replaced or faulty wiring. While some issues with these homes may just be because building codes have been updated, others are due to the age of the home.
If you have found your dream home that you wish to fix up, here are some things to think about when renovating an old house.
Older homes may contain toxic materials. Homes that were built several years ago were considered safe for that time. But now, we find that if these substances are released into the air during renovation, they can harm humans.
One of these materials, asbestos, is found many times in homes that were constructed before the 1980s. Spray-on insulation, texturized paints, flooring tiles, and steam pipes are generally the culprits for this. During the demolition process, asbestos is released into the air, which settles in our lungs, causing damage to our health.
Lead-based paints are an issue, too, especially if you have children in the home or someone is pregnant. These paints have been known to cause physical and mental damage. A whopping 87% of homes built before 1940 will contain lead-based paint, while 24% of houses constructed between 1960 and 1978 will have this paint.
If you do decide to renovate a home that has either of these toxic materials, call a professional to assist with the renovation.
A second issue many homes may see is mold and mildew. This is because older homes are more prone to moisture. The basement is a prime place to look, as is any dark area. What’s more is that if you have a home by the ocean or in humid weather, mold and mildew have higher chances of forming.
Mold and mildew may cause issues in those that have asthma or other breathing conditions. Not to mention that it has a nasty odor. When left untreated, mold and mildew can lead to rotting.
If you find mold in your home, you can use bleach or hydrogen peroxide to remove it. Safety protection, such as goggles, gloves, and a mask, should be worn. Use a fan or open the windows to keep the area well-ventilated.
Many times in old houses, the roof is not up to par. Many of these homes have wooden shingles, which can easily mold or rot. This material is also susceptible to leaks and fires.
With these roofs, there is a chance they are not up to code. The material may not be considered safe anymore, or there could be a chance that the material is too thin.
When having a roof installed, have a professional company assist you in the matter to be certain all codes and safety regulations are followed.
Foundations should also be looked at when renovating an old home. As a house age, the foundation has a higher chance of becoming cracked. Bad construction, tree roots, and draining issues are all problems that can cause a home to crack. Should you notice bulges by the cracks, it could indicate a much larger issue. If you find cracks that keep growing, you need to have them fixed. For any crack under 1/4 inch, use an epoxy sealer from the store. But for cracks that are larger, call a licensed professional.
If you are renovating an old house, call Hybrid Construction LLC in Tampa, FL. They can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your home will be renovated safely.
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