Really old homes were built on a foundation of large stumps under each corner of the home. Homes from the past century often have poured concrete foundations instead. Either way, you’re likely to find some issues at some point. Concrete foundations that show cracks will need to be reinforced with steel straps or undergo other repairs. Wood foundations may need the replacement of the support beams. This requires placing supports beneath the house while repairs are made. The foundation of the home is a crucial element, so you’ll need to decide if repairs are something you can manage and if you’ll need to pay for professional help. Managing Foundation Issues
Plumbing Tasks
Plumbing is another major home system that may be due for an upgrade. If the home has copper pipes you’re probably in good shape. However, all types of pipe will show wear with time. Be ready to put on your plumber’s apron if you invest in a vintage home. There will be leaks, rusty pipes, and backflow issues to deal with. Along with the plumbing related to sinks and showers, you may need to upgrade the water heater or deal with the septic system. You’ll also want to be comfortable replacing dated toilets since your home will likely have inefficient models that may not even be up to code. Fortunately, swapping out a toilet is a fairly easy DIY project. There’s no need to call in a plumber if the pipes are in good condition and you’re simply installing a toilet to replace an older one. If you need to reroute plumbing to relocate the toilet, it’s still possible to do it yourself. However, removing wall materials, flooring, and old pipes is much more comprehensive. In addition, you’ll need to know how to reinstall those materials. One tricky aspect of dealing with plumbing in older homes is they may not have an easily accessible shut- off valve like modern-day houses. In this case, you’ll need to turn your home’s water off at the main. When you put the system back together, include a shut-off valve so the job is easier next time around. One other note here. If you have a shut-off faucet, be prepared for it to be stuck or even to break during use. It’s common for these types of old faucet knobs to corrode. Know where your main shut-off is before you begin, just in case you have problems. Older homes provide a romantic snapshot of a different era. That history comes with some additional responsibilities, but you can enjoy the nostalgia and a comfortable home with some well-earned DIY skills and a plan.
Adding Insulation
Your house might not have insulation. It’s no wonder old houses lack energy efficiency with no attics for airflow and no insulation at any level. Any insulation you do have may have deteriorated over time, causing it to lose R-value. If updates are required, you’ll need to spray or roll new insulation throughout the home.
Maintaining the Fireplace
As houses move, shift, and settle, it creates separation in the bricks within the chimney and the firebox. These air gaps create a vacuum that can increase fire risk. If your home has a fireplace, thoroughly inspect the chimney for cracks or gaps. Then do the required masonry work before using it as a heat source. Also, clean your chimney one to two times each year.
Driveway Repairs
Whether the driveway is stone, asphalt, or gravel, it’s probably going to need some upkeep and repair. When stones become uneven, you need to unbury them, level the ground beneath, and reinstall them. Concrete or asphalt may need to be patched, coated, resurfaced, or replaced. Dirt and gravel driveways will probably need to be graded, and new materials laid out and compacted.
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HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
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