Whether they’re on the coast of Maine or Rhode Island or tucked away in Massachusetts or Connecticut, older New England homes are picture perfect. New England has some of the greatest architecture in the country, including Colonial-era homes to 1920s apartments and more. Regardless, if you’re moving to the area or about to buy one of these older homes, there are some important tips to know for renovation. Read this guide on must-know renovation tips for older homes to learn more.
Don’t Gut the House
When working with an older New England home, your first instinct may be to gut it from the inside out. However, doing so may not be the best idea. For starters, gutting an older home is one way to lose its charm and aesthetic quality. Even if you want to update it with modern technologies and appliances, you can do so without sacrificing the charm that initially attracted you to the property. Take each project one at a time with the appropriate time, energy, and resources that respect the current property but still address your concerns. After all, if you live in an older colonial home, you want to protect that architecture as best you can.
Realize More Work Can Be Better
While this might sound contrary to not gutting it, you sometimes need to put in a little work to make the home stand out. Older homes, especially in New England, are notorious for having a plethora of minor and major issues. These can be as small as untreated landscaping or peeling paint or as major as sagging or sloping floors. New England winters can be brutal, so ensure the house has proper insulation as well. If you’re uncomfortable doing this work yourself, call contractors to help. They have the knowledge and experience to make all necessary renovations promptly with minimal risk of getting further damages.
Respect the Property
New England has some gorgeous homes, from the coasts of Rhode Island to the suburbs of Connecticut and Massachusetts. So there are some beautiful properties that deserve proper treatment to ensure they last for many years to come. As previously mentioned, New England has a large number of colonial-era homes that require consistent maintenance to avoid extensive damage. New England faces inclement weather during the summer and winter months due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Therefore, taking precautions like waterproofing your home and using proper insulation can reduce damages. These projects can get costly, so set an appropriate budget. Remember, the more work you do now, the less you need to worry about later.
Address Safety Concerns
Water isn’t the only risk for New England homes. One must-know renovation tip for older homes is to address safety risks. Older homes often have various issues that can affect the health and wellness of the homeowner. Mold, mildew, pests, foundation repairs, plumbing, and electrical wiring pose significant risks to the property and buyer. Do yourself a favor and inspect all at-risk areas before buying so that you know what to expect. If you’re unfamiliar with what to look for, hire a property inspector to evaluate the site for you. They’ll provide a detailed report with everything you need to know.
