If you are house shopping, you may have noticed a few differences between older and newer homes. Many older homes that were at the forefront of construction technologies when they were built fall woefully behind compared to modern houses. If you have fallen in love with an older home, it’s a good idea to have it checked for these three problems before making any commitments.
- Foundation Trouble
Foundations can become degraded over time. This is true even if they are built very well at the start since concrete is vulnerable to water and other natural elements. Wear can lead to uneven settling or cracks, which may contribute to other potentially serious complications.
It’s a good idea to have an engineer check the foundation and main structural components of any older home. If you notice any signs of water damage, look into mold inspection & testing services to see if that is a concern.
- Lead and Other Toxic Materials
Homes built before the mid-1960s probably have a coat of lead paint somewhere inside. That in and of itself doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker, but you should be aware of the risks and how you can minimize them.
There are other materials that can also be hazardous. Radon is an excellent example. It is a carcinogenic gas that occurs naturally as uranium breaks down in the ground. While it usually dissipates, it can get trapped in older homes. A simple radon test kit can tell you if this is a concern.
- Outdated Electrical Wiring
Wiring has changed a lot over the years, but many older homes haven’t kept up with those changes. If you notice an old-fashioned fuse box, a 100-amp or smaller breaker panel or non-copper wring, you will want to have an electrician do a full inspection before moving forward.
Older homes have a lot of charm and character. They can also have hidden problems. A full inspection to check for structural problems, mold, toxic materials and faulty wiring can help you avoid headaches down the road.