Historic homes offer a certain charm that modern structures may not, but remodeling an older home comes with a few necessary considerations to retain its character and historical quality. Before jumping into renovations, there are a few errors to be aware of that can make the process stressful. Below are five to avoid.

What to Avoid When Remodeling a Historic Home

1. Buying Without a Professional Assessment

Before purchasing a historic home, have qualified contractors do a walkthrough to check the entire property. Their professional eye will detect hidden issues in critical areas like plumbing, electric, window and door insulation, property grading, and even structural components. They can assess for potential mold or asbestos trouble, especially if fixtures and other equipment seem in disrepair or old, and can give you a good idea of what renovations will cost you.

2. Forgetting to Pad Your Budget

Even after a professional walkthrough, surprises may show up. Make sure to pad your renovation budget to account for these new repairs so you are prepared financially. It is better to have extra funds set aside than to be stuck trying to pay for something you were not expecting.

3. Ignoring the House’s Character

Historical houses are attractive because of their specific elements from the time period in which they were built. Noting details, like porches, moldings, trims, cornices, and even the window and door styles, will keep renovations in line with the charm of the house.

4. Not Checking With the Historical Society

Some areas have a historical society that governs what can and cannot be done to historic buildings. Find out if your new home falls under their umbrella and make sure you know what the rules are for renovations.

5. Compromising Safety

While you may want to stay as true as possible to the home’s original quality, it is important to upgrade certain areas to match modern standards for safety and comfort. Electrical panels, plumbing pipes, heating and cooling systems, and equipment like water heaters should all be brought up to code to ensure the house is secure and also comfortable for residents.

When you are ready for renovations on your historic home, call the general contractors of Eagle Construction in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Since 1976, the remodeling company has offered professional, reliable construction services to both residential and commercial clients. With a focus on customer service and a highly trained staff, projects ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to home additions are in qualified hands. Call (715) 424-1147 to speak with someone about your project or visit them online for their gallery.