Even if an old home has been well maintained, it can still present hidden problems that homeowners of newer homes do not have to deal with.
Before you embark on a major renovation to breathe new life into an old home, look for these common problems and have them addressed ahead of time to avoid costly repairs in the future.
1. Termite damage
Malaysian homes are frequently exposed to termite infestations that can eat through structural parts of your home such as ceiling joists, wooden support beams, and posts. They’ll also chew through dry walls, wooden furniture, and metal siding, as well as personal belongings like books (or anything that was once wood).
Have all structural wooden elements inspected for termites before starting a major renovation, as older homes are more likely to have active termite infestations or preexisting termite damage due to compromised foundations.
To get rid of termite problems in your home, hire a pest control professional.
2. Mold and mildew damage
Mould and mildew are more likely to occur in older homes because moisture seeps more easily through cracked foundations and leaky pipes. However, because infestations can begin inside the wall, it is possible that you were not aware of it.
Mould can cause structural damage to your property as well as a threat to your health. Before you begin your renovation plans, take note of any signs of mould or mildew growth such wall discolouration and stains or unusual wall surface such as cracking, bubbling or peeling. A musty odour in a room is also a sign of mould growth.
Mould can be removed using store-bought mould spray or by scrubbing the mouldy area with abrasive sponges or brushes. Make sure your home has adequate air ventilation to help prevent mould growth. You can also buy a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.
3. Plumbing problems
Aged properties are notorious for having unreliable plumbing.
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If you've noticed low water pressure or water that's cloudy or rusty, you'll probably need to hire a plumber to install new pipes, as corrosion of old piping over time could lead to a burst pipe and flooding in the not-too-distant future. This can cause damage to your walls and floor, which will be costly to repair. Aside from that, water damage can lead to long-term issues such as mould infestations.
4. Old electrical systems
Old electrical systems found in old homes can be vulnerable to faults and can pose a serious health hazard due to the potential fire and electric shock risks. Moreover, with all of the new technology we use on a daily basis, the electrical systems in old houses are incapable of keeping up.
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Avoid attempting a DIY electrical project if you are not an expert in handling electrical issues. Your home’s electrical systems should be examined by a certified inspector and if any updates need to be made, you should hire a qualified electrician to fix them.
5. Outdated electrical appliances
Old homes are more likely to have old electrical appliances like air conditioning units, water heaters, lights and ceiling fans. While these appliances are still useful, they are typically less energy-efficient, resulting in ballooning utility costs.
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Consider replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models to save money and be more environmentally conscious in the long run. For example, you can choose lighting systems that use LED or CFL bulbs; these last longer, emit less heat and consume less energy overall.
Enjoy the benefits of home improvement without the headaches
When it comes to renovating an old home, it’s a good idea to work with an interior designer as they can help to speed up the home improvement process for you. When you hire an interior designer, you gain access to a network of home improvement vendors with whom the interior designer works, such as plumbers, electricians, or contractors.
Furthermore, an interior designer can create designs based on your brief, obtain a building construction permit (if necessary) and coordinate everything with the vendors so that the clients don’t have to, making your home renovation process less of a headache.
Find the right talent
One incredibly easy way to source for an interior firm is by sending a request for renovation quotes from Qanvast! We’ll match you with up to five talented designer firms based on your needs, budget and preferences.
All recommendations made by Qanvast will be protected under the Qanvast Guarantee scheme that covers 50% of your contract value, up to RM50,000, in the case that the recommended interior firm becomes insolvent.