- Follow us:
This Hooker Furniture Living Room Imperial Regal 3-Piece Stationary Sectional will look great in any old home.
There are two ways that you can be saddled with an old home issue; first, if you inherited one or if you bought one and are about to remodel it. Whichever scenario brought you this dilemma, you have to know that old home issues are sure to come up sooner or later so you might as well know what you’re about to face.
But what can be considered an old home?
This is going to be a subjective definition. Some would say that it is any house that’s been standing for 30 years or longer. This is why it is common for old house problems to materialize. Yet homes are supposed to age slowly and the problems that homeowners encounter often accrue gradually.
Religious maintenance can make a huge difference as can the quality of construction. Do accept, though, that the older the home gets, the likelier that you are going to encounter issues that would impact its livability as well as its safety.
Foundation Problems
You would require an inspection by a competent structural engineer if the floor that you’re walking on feels uneven. There are also less obvious signs that could manifest inside your home such as windows and doors that no longer latch properly. Such issues could also be spurred by foundation issues. Drywall cracks that are seen over windows and doors are also signs of a weakening foundation. Hairline cracks may appear harmless but a certified structural engineer would say otherwise.
A quick exterior inspection must be done right away. Check for any bulges inside foundation walls or any part of your home that no longer appears vertical. See also if there are chipping and flaking and if you do see any get a screwdriver to check the concrete’s hardness.
The cost for foundation repair could be as low as $1,000 or it could go a lot higher depending on the damage.
The Leaky Roof
The intrusion of water in your home is a sure death to the structure. The soundness of your roofing system is crucial to the overall health of every structure therein.
So how do you spot if you have a leaky roof?
If you spot staining on the ceiling, then this could be a sign of roof leaks. There could also be other issues that could cause this such as plumbing or window leaks, no matter, some repairs need to be done.
Water spots on the exterior walls can also be a sign of flashing issues. If you see these, you need to inspect the roof tiles or shingles to see if there are any problems like cracks, unsecured flashing, missing parts or cupping. Taking a quick look at the attic insulation should also reveal signs of moisture. Looking for daylight underneath the roof boards is also an effective way of seeing if the roof is still in perfect shape.
Roof repair costs vary so it is best to get an estimate from a contractor or a local roofer.
Old Features
Popcorn ceilings are removable though it could cost anywhere from $2,000 and up. The job becomes more hazardous if the ceiling contains asbestos (which is a probability). Allow a contractor to do the testing and the ceiling removal.
Old countertops and cabinets should also be replaced eventually. Painting jobs are relatively easy as would the replacement of fixtures but outdated furnishings need to be addressed right away. That heirloom cabinet might be housing not just your great grandma’s antique pieces but also some termites so watch out.
Waterproofing Issues
If there is a musty smell in your home then, chances are, you have waterproofing problems. It could be mold or mildew that has built up in the walls, the attic or even your under floor framing. Once you smell this, be sure to ask for a professional inspection. This is a potential major issue as it could require a new drainage or waterproofing.
Follow us on our social media
© McCreery's Home Furnishings | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy
