Are you looking forward to starting work on the old fixer-upper that you just bought? If so, then you’re in for a challenging yet rewarding task. Thus, if this is your first time attempting to fix up a house, you’ll need to know where to look for crucial problems. After all, it may not be apparent which areas of the home need fixing at your first glance. Carefully read through the guide below to learn what to look for when fixing an old house.
Foundational Issues
If the home is older than 50 years, the chances are high that there are at least some foundational problems. To keep your home livable, you’ll need to address these issues as soon as possible. Foundational problems include cracks, damaged supports, and more.
It’s normal for some foundational problems to show up from general wear and tear. Beyond that, wet soil and frequent seismic activity can also cause damage. When inspecting your home for these types of problems, here’s what to look for:
- Any windows that you can’t open
- Uneven surfaces and walls
- Wall cracks on the inside and outside
- Doors that don’t fully latch when shut
Rotting or Damaged Roof
Many older homes often have worn roofs due to their age. Old roofs are not only harsh to look at, but they’re also dangerous. For instance, leaks can lead to cave-ins that spell disaster. Not only that, but older shingles are susceptible to mold that can cause health issues. Here’s what to look out for on your roof:
- Moisture on the ceiling of your top floor
- Leaks
- Missing shingles
- Damaged shingles
- Gutters that bow off to one side
Broken Chimney
Suffice it to say, you should ensure that your chimney is in proper working condition. If it’s not, you should repair it as soon as you can. This task is critical because chimney problems can cause health issues, foundational issues, and more. Here’s what to watch out for during your inspection:
- Damaged mortar
- A build-up of creosote
- Missing chimney caps
- Rotting wood
However, these are only a few of the telling signs. There is a wide range of signs your chimney needs repairs, so take time to learn the ropes if you want your fireplace operating safely and efficiently.
Key Takeaways
The details above outline the top areas to check when gauging the repairs you need to make. In doing so, you’ll be able to identify all the most pressing issues that could cause more severe problems down the line. Remember to check the foundation, roof, and chimney of the old house you want to fix. Now that you know what to look for when fixing an old house, you can start planning the project today.
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