Renovating an older building can be one of the most exciting projects you can undertake, as there is often a certain character that you wouldn’t find with modern buildings. However, keep in mind that the process might also feel stressful and overwhelming at times, as you may encounter different challenges as you go. For example, it’s important to focus on preserving the original aesthetic while giving the space a new purpose. Although this can be a major project to take on and many aspects of it could go wrong, there are some ways to make things easier. Today we will share a few key steps that you can follow when you are renovating an older building to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Decide What You Want To Do
Firstly, it’s important to start by considering your vision for the building. There will be different things to focus on, depending on whether you plan on living there, selling it, or renting it. Your decision is crucial, as it can affect the design process. For example, think about what can help you add value if you plan on selling or renting the property. Once you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, it’s best to come up with a schedule and a detailed plan that you can follow.
Conduct Building Surveys
It’s essential to figure out exactly what you are working with so that you can reduce the chances of delays later on in the project. When it comes to older buildings, it might be a good idea to conduct a bat survey. 24 Housing is a great resource that you can use to learn more about bat surveys and the actions you need to take, as well as the survey costs you may encounter. This will help you check for the presence of bats and take the necessary steps to avoid long-term damage to a pre-existing bat population. You will also find out why bats are protected and ensure you are not engaging in illegal activity.
Learn How To Handle Common Problems
There are a few problems that you may have to deal with, as older buildings might not have been used in a long time. You might need to check for weather damage or other repairs which will need to be taken care of. For example, leaks can often be found, so you will need to react quickly to avoid further damage. Look out for cracks, as they might indicate more significant structural concerns. Also, it’s crucial to address electrical faults as quickly as possible to prevent further issues.
Secure The Site
You will also need to ensure security, since older buildings are often more susceptible to breaches, trespassing, and theft. Therefore, it’s important to take these risks into consideration and determine what types of solutions you can implement. For instance, it might be a good idea to install high-quality locks and cameras. In addition, you should make sure that your building is protected against damage, fire, and other issues. It might be helpful to use waterproof sheets to secure missing roof sections and metal shutters to protect windows and doors.
Get Help
Don’t hesitate to ask for help throughout the renovation process, as there might be some things that you may be unsure about. This is why, you may want to consult an expert who can help you plan your budget and prevent delays. You might need support with securing a home improvement loan or insurance, so it may be a good idea to ask for guidance and clarification. Also, it’s best to consider which tasks you can undertake on your own and which ones you might want to leave to a professional, such as an architect.
Prepare For Unexpected ExpensesÂ
Remember that when you are working with older buildings, it’s possible that you may encounter unexpected problems. This means that you should always be prepared for unforeseen expenses. Although it’s important to stay positive about the prospects of an older building, a little extra budget can go a long way. There will be plenty of things that might come up, so you should do your best not to panic at every issue. In the end, you should strive to make the most of the process.
Preserve Unique Elements
Another key thing to consider are the unique elements you will likely encounter while renovating an older property. This is one of the most significant reasons why people decide to reuse existing buildings instead of buying new ones. These unique elements can’t be found in new structures, which means that they will make your property more valuable. For example, you may have beautifully stained glass windows in the living room, that will likely draw the attention of your visitors. Before work begins, it’s advisable to consider what makes the building unique and focus on preserving the features, which could not be found anywhere else.
Retain The Building’s History
While you will likely want to modernise the building as much as possible, don’t forget to retain its history. For example, it might be beneficial to look for old photos, which represent what the building was like in the past. Consider documenting the process of redesigning it at various stages, as this might help you uncover new aspects, which are worth preserving. It’s best to concentrate on your wish to save the building, as this will help you create a unique place to live. Also, it can be a good idea to reuse materials so that you can reduce the negative impact that building projects often have on the environment.Â
Take Your Time
Finally, it’s recommended not to rush the process and try to get things done too quickly, as this can lead to costly mistakes. It can be tempting to want to complete everything within a short period of time, especially if you are planning to live in the property. However, taking the time to research different aspects of the building and plan your budget will help you in the long run. Older buildings can be unpredictable, so don’t get disheartened, if things don’t always go as planned.
