Keeping your old home in good condition for years to come is a simple process. There are many things that you can do to keep the house in good shape, despite its age. You’ll want to focus on upgrades first, like new windows and doors, but also be sure to take care of some smaller pieces. This will allow your investment in time and money to pay off over multiple years. Here are ways to keep your old home in great condition.
The Leak-Free Roof
The roof is one of the most important things to take care of in your home. If it has begun to leak, it may be time for new shingles to be put in place, along with some flashing around the area where the chimney meets the roof. If you live in a particularly rainy place, ensure that you have a couple of inches of good drainage pipe from your gutters. Hire a roofing company to install these pieces, as experience is a major part of keeping your roof in great condition.
Take Care of Foundation Issues
Foundation issues can be a major problem for any home, regardless of age. In some houses, the concrete walls for the basement are no longer in good condition and need to be replaced. If this is the case, you’ll want to hire a professional to come in and do that work. Sometimes it’s as easy as replacing one piece of concrete, but if the entire wall is older than thirty years, it may be better to build an entirely new wall.
Check for Mold
If mold is around in your home, you will want to take care immediately. If you can’t find any signs of it, use some caution and a magnifying glass. It’s unlikely that mold will be in the way of your safety, but if it does appear, you’ll need to remove it immediately. Be sure that the people at the house know where your allergies lie and what sort of mold might appear in your house. If you know that you’re allergic to mold, it may be better for a professional to come in and remove it if needed.
Update Outlets, Plates, and Light Switches
Updating your outlets, electric plates, and light switches are easy ways to make your house look brand new. While you’re at it, you should probably add a few newer and more efficient appliances. Having updated outlets is helpful when it comes to finding the charger for your newest phone or tablet. You won’t have to look around for the correct adapter if you have a modern outlet.
Install Some New Windows
New windows can also be a great way to keep your house in shape. Replacing windows that have become old or have seen a lot of use for a few years will keep the house cool and provide better ventilation. Your house won’t be as warm when the wind blows, and you won’t be as likely to have condensation gathering inside. This is likely a good investment, especially in the warm winter months.
Keeping your old house in great condition is a simple process. You’ll want to focus on major upgrades, like new windows and a new roof, but also be sure to take care of some of the smaller pieces. This will help you keep your investment in good shape and ensure you can use it for years. Be sure to check things regularly and consider an inspection every few years. This will ensure that things are running smoothly and there are no major problems you’ll need to deal with later.
About the author:
Emma is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2