Most homeowners work with remodeling contractors to build their dream house from scratch. However, there are those who prefer taking historical homes into the modern era while preserving their timeless and classic design.
Historical renovations and restorations are very different from the usual remodeling projects. Here are a few tips on how to handle renovations for historic homes:
Check the Registry
Before you start planning for an extravagant bathroom or kitchen remodeling project on a historic home, you should check the National Register of Historic Places first. The United States keeps tracks of historic homes and usually limits what kind of renovations can be made on them. It’s important to see what options are available right off the bat to avoid future headaches and potential fines.
Modern Amenities
Historic homes have great aesthetic appeal, and this is their biggest draw for many homeowners. However, some of their parts might not be suitable for use in modern times. These include, but not limited to the following:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Insulation
- Heating and cooling
Allocate a good portion of your remodeling project to focus on and upgrade these important parts to make sure they are all up to code once the renovation is completed.
Hidden Costs
It’s not unusual for home remodeling contractors to uncover hidden problems in historic homes. There may be rot, mold or water damage obscured from view behind the walls and plaster. Fixing these problems can increase your renovation costs so make sure you plan your budget accordingly.
Home Inspections
Talk to your local renovation company about a full and thorough inspection of your historic home before you start any work. This can help you avoid the problems presented by the previous point, allowing you to prepare adequately for your project.
At Design Build Remodeling Group of Maryland, we can help you preserve the beauty of your historic home. Call us at (443) 300-2268, or fill out our contact form to schedule an inspection and request a free estimate on home renovations today. We serve homeowners in Eldersburg, MD, as well as the surrounding communities.
