What Problems Do Older Homes Face and How Can You Solve Them?
Although there has been a focus in recent years of the problems that many owners of new homes discover in their properties, older homes will always be more prone to issues. These could hinder your quality of life, your property’s value, or even your ability to live in your house. To make sure that you can catch these issues early, read on to find out more about some of the most common problems in older homes.
Foundation Issues
Drywall cracks are a common sign of foundation problems in older homes. As a house settles over time, stress can cause the drywall to crack and create visible imperfections on the walls. These cracks can range from small hairline fractures to larger fissures. Ignoring drywall cracks can lead to further damage and compromise the structural integrity of your home.
Foundation issues are one of the most disruptive issues that you may face as a homeowner, as they can completely destroy your property. Foundation issues can be caused by many different elements, including flooding and water damage, disturbances from nearby trees, roots and plants, poor construction, and even changes to temperature and the type of soil around your home. You may begin to notice foundation issues within your home if cracks start to appear on the walls, if there is noticeable settling or sinking, if your floors begin to become uneven, or if gaps start to appear between your walls and your windows and doors. To fix this problem, you should call out Quad Cities foundation repair services, who can help to save and preserve your beloved home.
Damp and Mold
Damp and mold exist in many homes, but it is even more likely to occur in older properties, as they can be prone to poor ventilation, leakages, and condensation. Mold and damp can wreak havoc in your home, however, leaving you unable to sell your home or to live in it without suffering from health issues. Although damp and mold are notoriously difficult to remove, you can prevent them from returning by damp proofing your home, filling cracks, clearing plants from the exterior of your home, and repairing guttering and leaks.
Toxic Substances
Many older homes often contain materials that are now known to be toxic, such as asbestos, which is often found in insulation. This can damage your health and leave you suffering from asbestosis if this substance is disturbed. You can check for toxic substances by calling out a surveyor. However, you should never remove it yourself, and you should call out a professional to remove it for you.
Poor Electrics
Electrical systems should be replaced every twenty years, and yet some homeowners leave their electrics to fester for years on end due to the perceived disruption that renewing your electrics causes. However, if you fail to do so, this could leave your home at risk of fire or even raise the chances of being electrocuted when you are using sockets. Therefore, you should call out a professional to re-fit this, especially if your plugs are sparking or have stopped working.
Low Energy Efficiency
Single glazed windows are a common feature in pre-21st century homes. While homeowners do not often see new windows as an urgent renovation, these can allow cold draughts into your home. Even if you enjoy living below room temperature, single glazed windows can lower your energy efficiency and increase your carbon footprint. You should look at opting for double or triple glazed alternatives.