Updating an Older Home
Updating an older home isn’t just a renovation—it’s a revival. It’s about breathing new life into spaces that hold stories, quirks, and a level of craftsmanship that newer constructions often can’t rival. But let’s not sugarcoat it. Renovating an older home comes with its own brand of headaches. There will be dust, surprises behind walls, and moments where you question every decision. But, oh, the payoff? It’s glorious.
At Homes By Hendriks, we’ve turned dozens of tired, timeworn spaces into dream homes that blend historic character with modern comfort. With over six decades in custom home building and luxury renovations, we’ve seen—and handled—it all. If you’re considering taking the plunge, here’s what to expect.
Understanding the Charm of Older Homes
Older homes have an undeniable charm. From crown moldings to ornate banisters, every inch tells a story. They were built in eras where details mattered, with real wood, hand-carved touches, and enduring materials.
These homes often feature:
- Arched doorways
- Real wood floors
- Stained glass windows
- Cozy fireplaces with original mantels
They don’t just shelter; they speak. But restoring that charm while making the home functional for today? That’s where the challenge begins.
Why Renovating an Older Home Is Worth It
Let’s face it—renovating can be daunting. But the emotional and financial payoff can be substantial. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:
- Equity Growth: Older homes in established neighborhoods tend to hold value better.
- Customization: You get to blend old-world charm with your unique taste.
- Sustainability: Restoration is inherently eco-friendly—reuse over rebuild.
The journey might test your patience, but the end result often surpasses what a new build can deliver in character and heart.
Setting Realistic Expectations from the Start
Expect the unexpected. If you’re imagining a quick, clean TV-style renovation, press pause. You’ll want to budget realistically—not just money, but time and mental energy.
Key expectations to manage:
- Budget overages (add 20–30% buffer)
- Delays due to inspections or sourcing materials
- Emotional ups and downs—yes, that’s normal!
Transparency is your friend. And the right contractor will keep you grounded and informed, every step of the way.
Common Structural Surprises in Older Homes
Behind every 100-year-old wall could be a mystery—or a mess. Common structural issues include:
- Cracked or shifting foundations
- Warped joists
- Dry rot and termite damage
During the initial inspection, a seasoned contractor like Homes By Hendriks will know exactly what to look for. Addressing these early prevents nightmares later.
Plumbing Pitfalls You Might Encounter
Did your water come out brown? Welcome to galvanized pipes. Outdated plumbing systems can be a major issue:
- Galvanized or lead pipes
- Low water pressure
- Improper slope or drainage
Expect to gut and replace most of it. And if you’re doing a full kitchen or bath remodel, upgraded plumbing isn’t optional—it’s vital.
Electrical Systems That Need Upgrading
Knob-and-tube wiring might’ve been state-of-the-art… in 1920. But now it’s outdated and potentially dangerous.
Watch out for:
- Insufficient outlets
- Ungrounded systems
- Panels not up to code
Electrical upgrades are often one of the costliest parts of older home renovations—but also the most crucial for safety.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency Challenges
If your utility bills are sky-high, blame poor insulation. Most older homes have little—or none at all.
Problems we often fix include:
- Single-pane windows
- Drafty doorways
- Insufficient attic insulation
We often recommend spray foam, weather sealing, and high-efficiency windows to improve comfort and costs.
Dealing with Asbestos and Lead Paint
This is serious business. If your home was built before 1980, there’s a good chance asbestos and lead are present.
Handling it means:
- Hiring licensed professionals
- Abatement before renovations
- Higher upfront costs—but necessary for health
Never DIY these. Trust a reputable builder to coordinate safe removal.
Historic Preservation vs. Modernization
Where do you draw the line? Should you keep the old wallpaper or open up the floor plan?
The secret is balance:
- Restore trim and mantels
- Replace old kitchens with clean, timeless options
- Keep the soul, modernize the flow
At Homes By Hendriks, we work closely with homeowners to strike this delicate balance beautifully.
Navigating Permits and Building Codes
Older homes often fall short of today’s building codes, which means:
- Needing permits for almost everything
- Surprise violations discovered mid-reno
- Additional engineering reports
This is where an experienced builder becomes crucial. They’ll manage the paperwork, so you don’t have to.
Budgeting for the Unexpected
Here’s the rule: if you think it’ll cost $100,000, budget for $130,000.
Unexpected costs usually stem from:
- Structural discoveries
- Required upgrades
- Longer labor hours
We encourage our clients to pad their budgets and remain flexible. It reduces stress and makes for a smoother experience.
Timeline Realities When Renovating Older Homes
Dreaming of a 3-month flip? Think again. These projects often run longer.
Factors affecting your timeline:
- Permit wait times
- Weather delays
- Availability of vintage materials
We build realistic timelines and communicate clearly. Your sanity depends on it!
Choosing the Right Contractor Matters
You wouldn’t hire a dentist to fix your car—same goes for home renos. A contractor experienced with older homes is non-negotiable.
Why Homes By Hendriks?
- 60+ years in custom home transformations
- Deep knowledge of heritage construction
- Transparent project management
You’re not just hiring for skill. You’re hiring for peace of mind.
How Homes By Hendriks Tackles Old Home Renovations
Our approach combines precision craftsmanship with genuine care. We respect every home’s history while crafting your future within it.
What sets us apart:
- Collaborative design-build process
- Custom millwork to match original details
- An experienced, respectful crew
We don’t just renovate. We preserve legacies.
FAQs
What is the biggest challenge when renovating an older home?
Unforeseen structural or electrical issues are common, and they can significantly affect cost and timeline.
Can you live in your home during the renovation?
It depends on the scope, but full gut renovations often require temporary relocation for safety and convenience.
Is it cheaper to build new or renovate old?
Renovations can sometimes cost more upfront but retain charm and location advantages that new builds can’t offer.
How do I know if my older home has asbestos or lead?
A professional inspection is the safest and most accurate way to detect these hazards.
How do I make an older home more energy-efficient?
Insulation upgrades, window replacements, and high-efficiency systems go a long way.
Should I preserve original features like wood floors and moldings?
Absolutely—these features add unmatched value and character when properly restored.
Final Thoughts on Renovation Realities
Renovating an older home is a journey of patience, vision, and resilience. But with the right team, like Homes By Hendriks, it transforms into one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever undertake. These homes deserve to shine again—and you deserve a space that honors the past while embracing the present.
