Older Homes

If an 18th to early 20th Century dwelling is what you have in mind, then let me take you through what may seem the unfamiliar world of historic structures.

When buying an older home, you should generally expect the need for repairs, and higher maintenance costs. In most older homes there is usually at least one major system in need of updating. Keep in mind, most mechanical systems have been added to an old home and were not considered when it was originally constructed.
Typically, older homes are more work for the inspector. Therefore, you should hire an inspector who has taken the time for additional training in inspecting older homes. I enjoy learning about older homes. Not only have I taken (and plan to continue to take) additional training, I have also chaired the 4th,5th and 6th annual Hudson Valley Historic Home Seminars. The events are specific to historic homes, and we educate home inspectors in the proper inspection techniques and skills needed for properly inspecting historic homes.

Historic renovation and re-use are particularly delicate forms of architecture. They demand active research and a desire to understand a building's contribution yesterday as well as its potential contribution in the future.

The historic renovation of homes and buildings has become a very popular movement across North America. The National Trust for Historic Preservation (http://www.nationaltrust.org/) provides grants and guidance to organizations and individuals who are interested in renovating and/or preserving historical buildings.

Try to retain the original character of the house - don't "over-restore" the building.
Pay attention to details.
Try to stick to materials that were used when your house was built.
Keep elements like color, flooring, within the same historical period as your house.
Understand and respect as far as possible the original uses of rooms.
If fencing your property, look at genuine old fences, and observe the way they are designed and constructed.
Garden design will best complement your work on the building if you keep it in period with the house. Use plants and garden layouts of the time.
Additions and alterations should be in the manner and materials of the period in which your house was built.
Remember that it's a house, not a museum. Live in it and enjoy it and, at the right time, pass it on to someone else.

The information and recommendations contained here in are, to the best of A thru Z Home Inspection, Inc. knowledge and belief, are accurate and reliable. This document is offered in good faith. A thru Z Home Inspection, Inc. does not warrantee or guarantee accuracy, reliability, or completeness. It is the user's responsibility to satisfy himself as to the suitability and completeness of such information for his own particular use. We do not accept liability for any loss or damage that may occur from this information.