Many people are drawn to the beauty, charm and character of older homes. If you have chosen to purchase and remodel an older home, there are some important things to keep in mind. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Schaumburg, one of the top kitchen and bathroom remodelers in the area, shares the reasons why remodeling an old home can become expensive.
Plumbing & Electrical Systems
The outdatedness of these systems depends on the home’s age and the last time it was remodeled. Keep in mind that older circuits can’t provide adequate power to all the appliances and other electrical devices we use today. There is also the danger of worn-out wiring, which is likely to cause shorts, power failures and even electrical fires.
When it comes to plumbing, be sure to check if your pipes are made of lead, a substance that can lead to chronic health problems.
Hazardous Materials
Aside from lead pipes, lead can also be present in paint that covers door, trim and wall surfaces. Past owners may have covered the lead paint with modern paint numerous times, but scraping it off could expose everyone to lead’s harmful toxins.
Asbestos is another hazardous material to look into when planning a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project. It is a fire-retardant building material that was used in construction during the first half of the 20th century. It was subsequently banned because of its link to numerous health risks caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.
Bad Patch Jobs
Many old homes have undergone small upgrades and major remodels. However, careless planning on the part of the homeowners and remodelers often led to a loss of their original charm and character.
While rebuilding your old home’s historically accurate architectural elements can be costly, it is a long-term investment that pays for itself. Removing odd add-ons and repairing some of the damage sustained through the decades can help bring a residential property back to its former glory and preserve its traditional aesthetic.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
For all your kitchen and bathroom renovations, turn to DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen. Our remodeling specialists are committed to delivering a design plan that meets your specific needs. Give us a call at (847) 973-5097 or fill out our contact form to schedule a virtual consultation. We serve homeowners in Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Bartlett and nearby communities.
