Seven Tips for Renovating an Old House

Renovating an old house is quite different from building a new one. Because when you’re renovating an old house, you don’t start from a blank slate. So there will be unexpected circumstances and expenses that will make the process complex.

That’s why it’s essential to have a plan in mind before you start the twists of the renovation path. With some planning and experience, you can ensure your renovation project is successful. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything from assessing the condition of your house to choosing the right contractor. So if you’re planning a renovation, read on!

1. Rent a Storage Unit First

It’s not apparent how much stuff we gather daily in our homes, but things get messy when the remodeling project begins. And that’s when people realize that the store in their houses isn’t big enough to accommodate all their belongings.

That’s why it’s essential to move your belongings to a storage unit beforehand. This will protect your belongings from dust, debris, and construction noise. It will also give you more space to work in and make it easier to keep your work area clean.

According to NYPost, the average homeowner in the United States hoards more than 23 items that aren’t useful. A survey said that 39 percent of the respondents have stuff lying around that isn’t useful. 

Take the county of Grand Island as an example. Even though houses here are bigger compared to New York, people still hoard stuff like there’s no tomorrow. This is one of the many reasons why house cleaning services are thriving. 

If you want to save on investing in house cleaning services, you should get yourself a storage unit to store your stuff rather than risk losing it. An easy way to find a storage unit would be searching for Grand Island storage units on any popular search engine. 

Once you’ve chosen a unit, contact the company to schedule a time to get your stuff picked up and delivered to the unit. With that out of the way, you can focus on renovating your place, knowing that your belongings are safe.

2. Inspect the House Before Starting

When undertaking any renovation project, it is essential to inspect the house’s condition from the inside out before the procedure begins. This will help you identify potential problems that could impact the renovation work. 

Here are a few things to look into:

• Cracks in the foundation or walls
• Leaks in the roof
• Signs of pests
• Electrical or plumbing issues

You can save time and money in the long run if you know where to spend money. If you cannot make the assessment, call a professional to help. 

3. Don’t skimp on quality

Though cutting corners to save money may be tempting, it can get expensive in the long run. Sub-par materials and a lazy workforce will make a mess of things, necessitating more frequent repairs and replacements. 

Investing in high-quality materials and an experienced workforce will pay off in the long run, as your renovation will last longer and require less maintenance. When renovating an old house, quality should be your top priority.

4. Prioritize the Building Style

It is of utmost importance that you prioritize the style of your house when renovating it. This entails being thoughtful about the changes you make and ensuring that they complement the stricture of the house. 

Sometimes making changes for the sake of change is expensive, and if it isn’t planned well, it can result in a home that looks out of place and doesn’t reflect your personal taste.

5. Be Aware of the Risks

While renovating an old house can be a fun and rewarding experience, it’s essential to be aware of the risks involved. One of the biggest risks is finding hidden damage. As homes age, they become susceptible to mold and leakage. These damages can cause significant problems if not found or repaired before renovation.

Another risk to be aware of is the possibility of lead paint. Older homes may contain lead paint, which can be dangerous if disturbed during renovation. If you plan on painting the house, it is vital to have the area tested and take proper precautions to protect yourself and your family from lead and asbestos.

Renovating an old house can be a risky endeavor, but it can also be rewarding. By being aware of the risks, you can ensure that your house will hold up over time and look its best for years to come.

6. Hire a reputable contractor

When renovating an old house, you must hire a reputable contractor with a good track record. This is because a good contractor can advise you on the best way to renovate your house, considering its age and condition. They will also be able to carry out the work to a higher standard, using quality materials.

You can do a few things to ensure you find a good contractor. Firstly, you can ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had similar work done. Secondly, you can check online reviews to see what others have said about the contractors you are considering. And finally, you can contact the contractor directly and ask them any questions you may have.

7. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance that something will go wrong. That’s why it’s crucial to prepare yourself for the unexpected. Here are a few tips to help you be prepared for the unexpected when renovating your house:

• Have a contingency fund set aside to cover unexpected costs.
• Expect that the project will take longer than expected.
• Be prepared to make changes to your plans as the project progresses.

If you’re not prepared for the unexpected, you may be in a difficult situation. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared before starting your renovation project. By being prepared, you can ensure that your renovation goes smoothly and that you don’t end up in a difficult financial situation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, renovating an old house is a challenging and complex task that should not be taken lightly. But there are several things you can do to ensure the process goes smoothly. Try to assess the house before renovating and rent a storage unit to protect your belongings. 

Don’t forget to use quality materials and hire an experienced contractor. Last but not least, you must also be aware of the risks and ensure proper safety measures are in place. Good luck.