View of the outside of an older single story home.

Renovations of older homes should start with a foundation inspection.

Remodeling an older home can be a rewarding experience. Older homes often have charm and unique architectural features, and updating these kinds of properties allows homeowners to enjoy those quirks along with more modern features. But anyone considering a remodel of an aging home should expect challenges and prepare for potential pitfalls that can derail even the best-planned renovation projects.

If you’re planning to remodel a home built several decades ago (or more!), it’s important to be aware of common mistakes and oversights homeowners often make. Addressing these early on can save you time and money, as well as headaches and heartbreak. Here are seven of the most common older home remodeling mistakes we see and some tips for how you can avoid them.

Underestimating the cost

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when remodeling older homes is underestimating the cost of the renovation. Older homes often come with hidden issues, such as outdated wiring, plumbing, structural damage or even termite infestation. In north Georgia, where heat and humidity can exacerbate certain conditions like wood rot and mold growth, these issues can be especially problematic.

Many homeowners set a budget based solely on visible repairs or aesthetic changes, without accounting for the cost of upgrading infrastructure to meet modern building codes. For example, an older home might require a complete electrical overhaul to comply with current safety standards, a project that could significantly raise the overall cost.

Working with a professional design-build firm experienced with remodeling older homes is one way to avoid this issue. Another wise move is to have a contingency fund of at least 10% to 20% of your total budget to cover any unexpected expenses.

Overlooking structural issues

The foundation of an older home is one of the most critical components to inspect before beginning any remodel. In Georgia, the mix of red clay soil and the region’s climate can lead to foundation issues, such as cracking or settling over time. Not only can foundation problems be costly to repair, they impact the overall safety and structural integrity of the home.

Understandably, homeowners tend to focus on cosmetic upgrades, like new floors or paint, and neglect to have a professional inspection of the foundation. A structural engineer or a qualified contractor can evaluate the foundation before beginning any renovations. If there are problems, knowing them from the outset means they can be addressed early on rather than having to deal with them after completing other updates.

Ignoring outdated electrical, plumbing

Older homes in northern Georgia may still have electrical and plumbing systems that are decades old, sometimes even original to the house. A common mistake is assuming these systems will continue to function properly without inspection or upgrading. However, outdated wiring or pipes pose safety hazards such as fire risks from old electrical panels or water damage from leaking pipes.

If you’re remodeling an older home, it’s essential to have a licensed electrician and plumber assess the existing systems. Like many places, Georgia’s building codes have changed over the years, and your home’s electrical or plumbing system may need to be brought up to current standards. Even if things appear to be working, they may not be able to handle modern appliances and usage levels, potentially leading to problems down the road.

Using the wrong materials

When remodeling an older home, it’s important to use materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also appropriate for the house’s age and style. Another common mistake when remodeling an older home is using modern materials that clash with the character of the home, such as replacing original wood floors with laminate or installing vinyl windows in a home designed for wooden frames.

Climate considerations also should play a role in material choice. For example, certain materials may not hold up well to Georgia’s high humidity levels, leading to mold growth or deterioration over time. Consulting with a local contractor or design-build professional who specializes in historic or older homes can help you choose materials that not only fit the style of your home but are also suited to our environment.

Shrugging off preservation guidelines

Georgia is home to lots of historic properties, and many cities have strict historical preservation guidelines when it comes to such homes. These guidelines dictate what can and cannot be done to homes in historic districts, especially when it comes to changing the façade, windows, roofing, or other more visible aspects of the house.

Don’t make the mistake of failing to research whether your home falls within a historic district or has historical significance that requires adherence to specific guidelines. Making unapproved changes to a historically significant home could result in fines, penalties or even being required to reverse the changes, costing more money in the long run. Homeowners in these areas should consult with a local historical preservation society or government bodies to ensure they are following all regulations.

Skipping inspections and permits

No one likes paperwork or waiting on the wheels of bureaucracy to churn. However, skipping necessary inspections and permits is a mistake that can cause significant legal and financial trouble. Some homeowners try to cut corners by proceeding with renovations without obtaining the proper permits or having the work inspected. This can lead to fines, work stoppages, or worse, having to undo work that doesn’t meet local building codes.

In Georgia, building codes are enforced at the local level, and the requirements can vary depending on the county or city where the home is located. Before starting any remodeling work, it’s important to understand what permits are required. This is especially critical when making major structural changes, upgrading electrical or plumbing systems, or adding new rooms. Hiring a professional design-build firm well versed in the permitting process of your area can make this step a lot easier and save possible headaches later in the renovation project.

Rushing the remodel

Patience, please. Any remodeling project is a process, and older homes often require more time and attention. Rushing through the project in order to finish quickly can come back to bite you in the end. Getting in a hurry to finish can lead to overlooking important details or skipping necessary steps, such as allowing time for inspections, properly curing materials, or ensuring that repairs are thorough and likely to last.

Practicing patience is key when renovating an older home. Taking the time to address potential issues properly will ensure that your remodel is successful and that your home remains safe and functional for years to come.

At Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling, we employ a team of skilled specialists with decades of remodeling experience, including older homes.

Photo: courtesy Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling