PDP
Period properties make for wonderful homes. You have the opportunity to own a piece of the past, which can be far more attractive than modern properties, with their tendency to lack character. A period property is an investment in the history of the building as well as the building itself.
While the history behind a period property is all part of its charm, it can also be problematic. A house with history is a house with a past, and inevitably, somewhere in that past there was an owner who didn’t take maintenance chores too seriously. While it is possible to buy a period property that has been upgraded and maintained as it should have been, these tend to be incredibly expensive. For most buyers, if they want a period property, they have to accept a few foibles. For most, this is a worthwhile exchange: the character of an older house is more than worth the hassle of a few necessary renovations.
If you own a period property that hasn’t been maintained to perfection, then it’s almost certainly going to need at least one of these three renovation tasks completed— preferably ASAP!
#1 – A new roof
Period properties are infamous for their roof problems. Roofing, arguably more than any other area of construction, has changed hugely over the centuries. If your period property has not had its roof updated in the last 30 years, then this should be at the top of your renovation list.
Unfortunately, the task of reroofing a period property is not a small one. Converting an old structure to handle a reliable modern roof can take time and money, but the potential risks of failing to provide a new roof are serious enough to justify the expense.
#2 – Basement work
If your period property has a basement, then it’s almost certainly going to be in need of some TLC. A damp proofing course is an essential, while window well replacements are a key component that is likely to be necessary.
Even if you only intend to use your basement for storage or laundry, you still need to undertake this work. Structural problems frequently begin in the foundations of your home, so the construction and security of your basement is your first line of defense. Rising damp, for example, is a problem you’ll need to halt as soon as you identify it. Additionally, if your window wells are rusted, then they are a security risk, so they need to be replaced as soon as possible.
#3 – Rewiring
Rewiring is a task that many owners of period properties tend to find themselves having to fund. When electricity was first used in homes, no one was entirely aware of the dangers it posed, so wiring work was often haphazard. If you suspect your house has not been rewired since its initial construction, contact an electrician as soon as possible.
In conclusion
While the above can be incredibly expensive and difficult to manage, there’s no doubt that there’s something special about period properties that somehow makes all the stress absolutely worth it.
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