As homes get older, they gain a certain charm. Years of memories and worn-in usage gives an older home a smooth and gentle polish that makes it feel lived-in and homey even when it's empty. But older homes also have older materials, dated looks, and often lack the usefulness you might need in your home. Fortunately, you can make improvements to totally change all that.
Paint or Wallpaper
Whether the walls were painted in a glossy or matte finish or had wallpaper smoothly pasted in place, eventually it begins to fade. There may be some spots that are more faded than others where pictures and other things were hanging as the sun offered it warms rays. On top of that, certain paint colors and wallpaper patterns start to look dated after a few years (or decades) have passed. Updating your home's walls with fresh paint or new wallpaper can take years off its age.
Windows
A window replacement is a very common improvement in older homes. You might choose to replace them for aesthetics, to let more light in, or to make them more energy-efficient. If your home is much older, replacing them with newer energy-efficient ones may be a priority so you can decrease your energy bills.
Heating or Cooling Systems
Depending on the exact age of your home, at some point you'll need to replace or upgrade the heating or cooling systems. Whether it's changing a coal furnace in an old home to something more modern or simply replacing an air conditioning unit that was installed 20 years ago, these systems will need attention. The good news is these expensive improvements often decrease your energy bills and last for decades.
Switches, Outlets, Plates, and Fixtures
As the years pass, homeowners make home repairs as needed. Swapping out switches, outlets, plates, and light fixtures as they need to be replaced usually results in a house having a variety of shapes and styles. Ones that aren't replaced or updated can end up yellowing or being painted over. Taking the time to replace all the switches, outlets, plates, and fixtures to match (or at least create a pleasing complementary look) can make you more comfortable in your home. Hiring an electrician to do it can also help uncover any hidden electrical problems you might need to address.
As your home ages, it needs attention just as your own aging body does. And if you bought an older home to begin with, it's important to keep an eye on things from the beginning. Set aside money a little at a time so you're prepared for the expense of eventual improvements. Your home, and the sense of peace you feel inside it, will appreciate it.
