9 Common Issues To Take Care Of Before Moving Into an Old Home

Older homes offer more spacious rooms, charm, and character than many new ones. You’ll enjoy the serenity of a vintage home that doesn’t cost as much as a newer property. However, there’re issues to look into before taking the plunge into homeownership. Doing so will help you avoid costly and time-consuming repairs. Here are nine possible issues to fix before moving companies near me into an old house.

Pest Problems

One of the most common problems with older homes is pest infestation. Ants, termites, spiders, and other pests can cause a lot of damage to your home if left unchecked. Be sure to have a professional inspect the home for pests before moving in. Pests can also damage the roof, foundation, and other parts of the home.

Note that any existing gaps or roof issues will only provide pests with an even bigger opening to invade your home. Consult Bucks County roofing company for inspection and repair guidelines. Have all pest issues resolved before you move in to avoid long-term damage.

Water Damage

Another common issue in older homes is water damage. It’s due to leaky roofs, faulty plumbing, and poor drainage. Water damage can lead to mold growth, poor air quality, dampness, and weak insulation. Have the home inspected for water damage before moving in. Replace old or faulty plumbing, fix any leaks, and install proper drainage to reduce the risk. Insulate the pipes, the basement, and other areas to prevent water damage in winter.

Lead Paint and Asbestos

Lead paint was commonly used in homes before 1978. It’s harmful, especially to children and pregnant women. There’s a good chance an older home contains lead paint. Have the home tested for lead paint and any areas that contain it professionally removed.

Asbestos was once a common building material, but it’s now known to be dangerous. If your home contains asbestos, have it removed by a professional. Asbestos can cause lung cancer and other respiratory problems if inhaled.

Structural Issues

Older homes are more likely to have structural issues. They include loose or missing tiles, cracked walls, and rotting wood. Have a professional inspector check the structural issues before moving in. Repair any damage that’s found to avoid further problems down the road.

Old Electrical Wiring

Older homes often have outdated or old electrical wiring. The problem poses a serious fire hazard. Have a professional inspect the wiring before you move in. If it’s faulty, have it replaced immediately. 

Also, check whether it can accommodate your current and future electrical needs. If the house has aluminum wiring, replace it as soon as possible. Aluminum wiring is a known fire hazard. Don’t forget to check whether the property meets all electrical codes.

Heating and Cooling Issues

Older homes often have outdated heating and cooling systems. These can be costly to repair or replace. When replacing, get quotes from different companies to discover the best deal. Also, go for a unit that will accommodate your current and future needs. Opt for energy-efficient models to save on heating and cooling costs.

Insulation

Older homes often lack proper insulation. Poor insulation leads to higher energy bills and decreased comfort. Add insulation to the attic, walls, and other necessary areas. The exercise will keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you’re considering a roof replacement, go for an energy-efficient model to improve your home insulation.

Lighting

Older homes often have outdated or inefficient lighting. This can lead to higher energy bills and decreased comfort. Update the lighting before moving in. Replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient models and add more lighting fixtures to dark areas. Also, think of increasing the amount of natural light in your home with windows and skylights.

Consider Improving Efficiency and Convenience

Transforming the home into a smart one can make life more efficient and convenient. Installing smart devices like motion sensors, thermostats, and security cameras will save you time and money. You can also improve your home’s energy efficiency with solar panels and wind turbines.

Solve The Issues Before Moving In

If you’re planning on moving into an older home, be sure to take care of these common issues first. You’ll avoid problems down the road and make your home more comfortable and efficient. Additionally, you’ll prevent costly, stressful, and dangerous repairs down the line.