3 Tips for Preserving an Older Building's History When Remodeling
Ken Carney • October 28, 2019
Modernize it without losing that old-world charm
Many old buildings have character and charm. However, age and neglect can make these qualities harder to see. If you recently purchased an older property and you want to modernize it without losing that old-world charm, these three home remodeling tips can help.
How to Maintain the Historical Charm of Your Home When Remodeling
- Address Foundation Cracks
If the home is over 50 years old, you’ll need to have someone inspect the foundation. Cracks can allow water in, which can lead to mold and wood rot. Radon can also seep through any weaknesses. Make sure the foundation is solid before working on the rest of the building. - Remove Dangerous Elements
Older homes were built with a lot of unsafe materials, such as asbestos and lead paint. You’ll need to pay close attention to these chemicals along with other components, such as the electrical and plumbing systems. Through the 1940s, balloon framing was a popular construction method that involved a wood stud wall that extended from the foundation to the attic. While sturdy enough, flames can quickly travel up it, posing a serious fire hazard to your home. You can address these potential hazards in your home without detracting from the building’s historical aesthetics. - Touch up the Aesthetics
The fun part of home remodeling begins once you’ve ensured that the foundation is strong and you’ve taken care of the hazardous elements. Look at the home’s features and decide what to clean up and what to replace. Consider replacing the flooring, windows, and plasterwork to make the home more efficient and comfortable. Have a professional assess the safety and stability of the older architectural elements. Preserve what you can to keep your home’s charm intact. If you must replace these items, decide if you want to keep each piece as close to the original as possible or if you want something new.
Looking to remodel an older property? Turn to Baybrook Remodelers in West Haven, CT. For over 20 years, our home remodeling experts have been helping homeowners restore and update their properties while surpassing expectations. Visit our website
to take a look at some of their previous projects or call them today at (203) 937-6400
to schedule a consultation.
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