Home Renovations

If there is one thing that really gets me excited, it is the idea of taking something old or poorly conceived and turning it in to something spectacular. Of course I am not very hands on so I typically only get to play a part in the idea conception stage. But even if that's the only thing I get to do in the process, for me it is very rewarding. Here in Raleigh home remodeling contractors seem to thriving and there is no shortage of talented people who can help bring your home remodel to a new level.

However there are several things that can pop up and handicap your efforts.

1. Moisture

Water is arguably one of the biggest detriments to consider. Moisture in general can the start of nasty to come down the road; mold, mildew, bacteria, and eventually termites.

If you find moisture behind wall boards you might have to replace the studs before being able to continue with your remodel.

2. Foundation Cracks

Older homes around 40 - 50 years old may find some underlying problems in the foundation. Foundations where not as stable and just can't stand the test of time. During this time is was common for sealers to not be used and water would creep in and create cracks in the foundation.

In addition cracked foundations can be a source of exposing Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas. Radon is believed to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

3. Lead

Both paint and old plumbing pipes could potentially contain lead.

Although many older pipes from back in the 1940s, the solder used to join copper pipes together up through much of the 1980s. Water filtration systems can be installed to combat this but effective systems can be as much as $2,000.

Another potential concern is with paint chips. If lead based paints chip off the house and land in a vegetable garden the lead can be ingested through the vegetables. It is highly recommended to not sand blast this paint off the house, rather remove the siding and encapsulate it in latex paint.

4. Electricity

Many older homes where not grounded properly due to not having to adhere to any specific codes. However times and codes have changed and it's important to realize that this could be another issue that you're going to have to address.

In these older homes it is normally a good idea to replace the old electrical boxes with new boxes as well. You may also want to consider replacing all the electrical "behind the wall" wiring with new electric wire, perhaps through base boards for concealment.

5. Asbestos

There are some states where lurking asbestos will stop your project dead in its tracks due to regulations about having to dispose of it immediately.

Older floor coverings and duct insulations used asbestos in their products, so it is quite a common find with older home remodels.

6. Wells, tanks, and cesspools

It is not uncommon to unearth old oil storage containers, septic tanks, or perhaps a well during a remodeling project.

Most of these can be simply dug up or filled it, but if you find and old oil storage tank, which was used for heating, then your contractor may have to acquire a special permit in order to dispose of the tank.

Raleigh home remodeling contractors are well versed in these issues and know full well how to handle them as they come up.

As you begin your project remember to have fun and don't let these things stress you out. Just keep your eye on the prize!