Renovating An Old Home: 3 Inspections You Should Perform Before Work Begins

14 June 2016
 Categories: , Blog

Share

Whenever you renovate an older home, you don't know what's lurking behind the walls. What you think is going to be an easy job can turn out to be anything but if you encounter hidden dangers, such as mold, asbestos, and termite damage. These hidden issues can lengthen your timeframe and increase your budget exponentially. Fortunately, you don't have to go into a renovation blind. By performing several vital inspections before you open up the walls, you can find problems and work the solution into your budget and renovation plans. Following are a few inspections you should perform before work begins. 

Mold

Any home that has a moisture problem can have toxic, black mold. Sometimes the mold grows where you can see it; sometimes it's hidden from sight. The problem with tearing into a home that has black mold is that demolition can cause mold spores to become airborne, which can be very dangerous. Whenever black mold is present, a remediation team has to come in and remove the mold in a contained way that does not allow mold spores to escape. 

Asbestos

Homes constructed or remodeled between 1930 to 1977 may contain asbestos, a cancer-causing construction material that was used in insulation, tiles, shingles, wall treatments, etc. While these materials don't cause problems if they are intact, demolition can cause the fibers to break free and become airborne where they can be breathed in. Like mold, asbestos has to be removed in a controlled environment to prevent health problems. Fortunately, you can have materials tested before demolition begins. If they test negative, you can proceed without any issues. If they contain asbestos, however, you will have to have an asbestos team remove them. 

Termites

Termites might not make you sick if you uncover a nest that you don't know about, but they can sure wreak havoc on your budget and your project. Hidden termite damage can weaken and undermine hidden structures within your home that are vital and load bearing. If your home has termite damage, you may have to replace these structures before you can begin your remodel. Since additional work can get quite costly, it's a good idea to know what you're up against before you get started. 

As you can see, there are several inspections that can help you spot potential renovation issues before they become huge, unexpected problems. If you uncover problems, you can increase your budget or make other arrangements regarding your remodel. 

For professional asbestos removal, contact a company such as Delfa Contracting LLC.