When purchasing an older home, it is essential to consider the renovation process that lies ahead. Most often, one of the first steps is to clean out the house, which can come with challenges and risks. Whether planning to do the cleaning yourself or hiring professionals, it is important to consider the potential safety hazards. This blog will discuss five safety tips when cleaning an older home.
Protect Yourself from Mold and Asbestos
Older homes are often prone to mold and asbestos, which can cause respiratory problems and severe health issues. Make sure to wear protective suits, gloves, and respiratory masks when cleaning out an older home. Also, be careful not to disturb any asbestos materials, such as insulation or flooring tiles. It is best to have a professional inspect the home for these hazards before you begin cleaning.
Use Proper Lighting
Older homes may have unstable structures, loose floorboards, or broken stairs. To avoid injuries and falls, it is important to have proper lighting throughout the house. Using a flashlight can be helpful when going into dark or poorly lit spaces. Make sure that all light bulbs are working and replace any broken fixtures before starting to clean.
Handle Chemicals with Care
Older homes may have leftover chemicals from previous owners, such as paint, pesticides, or cleaning products. These chemicals can be harmful if not handled properly. Wear gloves and protective clothing when dealing with chemicals, and dispose of them properly. Using an airtight garbage disposal bin can be helpful when storing disparate chemicals for disposal.
Be Careful of Electrical Hazards
Older homes may have outdated electrical systems, which can pose a fire hazard if not properly maintained. When cleaning an older home, be careful not to overload electrical circuits or use damaged wiring. It is also important to have a professional inspect the electrical system before any work is done.
Keep a First Aid Kit Handy
Accidents can happen, and it is always best to be prepared. Keep a first aid kit handy, and know how to use it in an emergency. Also, make sure to have a working phone or communication device to call for help in the event of a serious injury.
Cleaning out an older home can be a lot of work, but with these safety tips, the process can be much safer and more manageable. Remember to protect yourself from mold and asbestos, use proper lighting, handle chemicals carefully, be careful of electrical hazards, and keep a first aid kit handy. Taking these precautions will help ensure your renovation goes smoothly and you can enjoy your newly refurbished home with peace of mind.
