Knowing how to restore an old house properly will help you save time and money.
Restoring an old house is an expensive process. There is a lot of work your builders have to do to bring your property back to its former glory, including repairing and upgrading utilities and damaged areas and adding modern features.
You can choose to build a house from scratch but living in an old house also has its perks. An old house has unique beauty and character. History alone can make an excellent conversation starter.
But if your old house has never been restored or the last restoration was a failure, it is time for you to call your builders.
Restoring an old house is an essential process to ensure living there is safe. Outdated house utilities, such as electrical, heating, or water systems, can pose a safety hazard to your family. Not to mention the toxic materials that might be lurking behind the walls.
Restoring an old house will also add to its curb appeal. If you plan on selling it in the future, it will sell for more than one that has never been lived in or needs work. It also lets you update your home to adjust to a modern lifestyle.
What to Expect If You Want to Restore Your Old House
But before you jump right into the restoration and make the calls, here are some things you need to know:
Old house restoration is expensive.
Expect many upgrades and repairs if your house hasn’t been restored, renovated, or maintained for a long time. Yes, there are ways to save money, but it doesn’t mean the restoration process will be cheap.
Remember, you might deal with tons of work, such as upgrading your utility systems or possibly the whole house to adhere to modern safety standards. Repairs, especially the ones brought by water damage, will require you to replace the essential areas of your home, such as the sill plate or other structural parts.
This process is required as it will pose a safety hazard to your family if left unrepaired.
You must have realistic expectations.
Unless you want to knock down your old house and rebuild a new one, you can’t have all the modernisations and features you want. Remember that you need to work around an already-built structure to include modern living features. If you insist on having what you want, it may require sacrifices that can end up ruining the beauty and character of your home.
If you want all the conveniences of a new house in your old one, it might be more practical and cheaper to build a new home with the features of the older homes you like.
Practical Money Tips on How to Restore an Old House
As mentioned, old house restoration is expensive, but there are some practical ways to save money or get the most out of your investment. Here’s how:
Consider the resale value.
Even if you currently don’t have any plans to sell your house in the future, still consider the resale value.
Besides, you can’t tell what will happen in the future. An unexpected situation might require you to let go of your house. You don’t want to be at a disadvantage and remorse about the bad budgeting decisions you made when you restored your home.
Don’t do all the restoration tasks yourself.
We understand how expensive it is to restore your old house, but it doesn’t mean it’s safe or advisable to DIY. To save money, you can do the repainting or the tiling yourself but leave the challenging tasks to the experts.
Dealing with outdated utility systems and asbestos removal is fatally dangerous and may cost your life. Don’t attempt it, even if there are tutorials available online.
Attempting to do everything yourself can cost you more money in the long run. It is dangerous to try and deal with outdated utility systems or asbestos removal. Moreover, you may damage the property further, needing you to call in the experts anyway.
If you want to save money, stick to the basic tasks and leave the more complex and dangerous jobs to the professionals.
If you don’t have the money, start by repairing the damage.
In old house restoration, you cannot just choose to start anywhere. Start with the most important: controlling the damage.
If you must start partly to adhere to your current budget, begin by dealing with the damage. Fix any leaks, replace rotten wood, and patch the holes.
Note that some damages may not be visible. Hire a professional inspector to check the property for any hidden damage lurking behind walls and floors.
Keep non-hazardous imperfections
Some imperfections are worth keeping. For example, if you have a low-ceiling room, don’t waste money renovating it. Work around it by making it into a child’s room or a playroom.
Final Thoughts
Painting and tiling can cover up an old house’s imperfections. They can help make your home look new, but they don’t fix the underlying problems.
Unlike cosmetic renovations in modern houses, restoration is crucial for an old house. You need to upgrade the electrical system, remove the asbestos, and fix any water damage. These necessary repairs will make your home safe for your family.
If you don’t have the budget for a complete restoration, call the builders and start by repairing the damage. Don’t attempt to DIY, as it might cause more expensive problems. Work on the most critical areas first, and then you can slowly work your way around the rest of the house.
Restoring an old house is a considerable investment, but it’s worth it. Not only will you get to keep the charm and character of your home, but you’ll also increase its resale value.
If you need restoration services, request a quote today!
Also read: Your Ultimate Guide to a Heritage House Restoration
