All homes require some degree of maintenance. An older home in particular may have things that you hadn’t considered before you decided to make the purchase. The charm of an older home has to be balanced with the costs of the upgrades that will need to be completed. Here are some of the updates that you need to look into completing right away.
Check out Your Electrical Situation
Unless your home had an electrical upgrade in the last decade or so, you’ll need to have it checked out. Older homes are notorious for needing to be completely rewired so that it can support the required amenities of modern life. Get some quotes from electricians so that you can factor this into your budget.
Investigate the Plumbing
The most common type of piping in older homes is galvanized steel. The problem with this type of plumbing is that it rusts from the inside out. This can cause your home to have low water pressure. If the rust is allowed to progress, it can result in a pipe breaking and causing damage to your home.
Look into Your Water Heater
Water heaters have a finite lifespan. The average water heater lasts about 10 to 15 years. This lifespan is significantly shortened if the previous owner didn’t flush it regularly. Try flushing it yourself and observe the condition of the water. If it’s dirty looking, it’s time to replace that old water heater.
Consider the Insulation
Over the years critters may have torn up the insulation in the walls of an older home. Another thing is that the code requirements have changed for the amount of insulation that should be in the attic. If you notice that your home seems especially warm in the summer or drafty in the winter, add insulation to help with your energy costs.
Inspect the Exterior
A truly older home may have some wear and tear on the outside. Inspect the condition of the siding, window frames, foundation, and the roof. Any one of these items being in poor repair could result in damage to the interior. Taking care of these issues now will save you money on more costly repairs later on.
There will always be projects that you need to complete around your home. Deal with the major ones first so that you can make your investment last. Minor renovations can wait until you’ve recovered your finances from purchasing your home and making the necessary updates.
