Putting some well needed TLC into your home can be an exciting and rewarding time. But like any kind of home improvement, renovations may not always run as smoothly as you’d hope. Tearing off old wallpaper or ripping out a dated shower can make you breathe a massive sigh of relief, but it is common to unearth unexpected issues lying beneath the surface. However, don’t let this dampen your spirits. We are going to share with you some of the most common renovation issues and how to overcome them so you can continue building your dream home.
Water Damage
Over 4 million people in the UK have had experience with water damage, with over 25% facing this issue more than once. Water damage can have a detrimental effect on homes, so it is crucial to take appropriate action when you notice the problem. Damage can begin with water leaking through the roof or faulty plumbing and can go undetected for some time. Water damage is most likely to be discovered during a renovation. It may require a specialist to come in and assess the damage and deal with secondary issues such as mould to prevent any health issues for you and your family.
Foundation Cracks
You peel back the old wallpaper, and there it is, one of your worst nightmares, a deep foundation crack. Houses are, as they say, built to last, but they cannot always withstand the test of time. So what causes a foundation crack? The type of cement used in older houses can become weak and begin to crumble, and if the plot is retaining water, this can cause the soil under the property to expand.
Considering the weight of a house and the pressure on the foundation, it’s no surprise the concrete begins to crack. Foundation cracks need to be inspected by a structural engineer to assess the cost and the best recommendation to fix them. Foundation cracks can be resolved with steel braces bolted onto the house, underpinning the foundation with helical screws or concrete piers. In extreme cases, a completely new foundation may be the only option. A costly hurdle, foundation cracks need to be correctly dealt with as soon as you notice them.
Hazardous Materials
Many people discover old hazardous materials such as lead and asbestos when renovating. These old materials require special handling and have specific disposal guidelines put in place by the Environmental Protection Agency. To protect yourself and others at home, always ensure you contact a professional upon discovering any hazardous materials so they can be removed quickly and safely.
Tackling Bad Renovation
Many homeowners discover layers of bad renovation from previous owners during refurbishment. This can be anything from shoddy plumbing to poor carpentry by inexperienced contractors. Removing any amateur renovations is vital in preventing damage or ruin to your final finish and will save you money in the long run.
Don’t panic! There are a few key points to remember when renovating your home to help things run a little bit smoother. Speak to the professionals as early as possible, stay optimistic and upbeat and allow some wiggle room in your original budget if you uncover any historical problems.
Renovating is an exciting time and having the proper knowledge and knowing your options will ensure your renovation is as happy and successful as possible. Our team at Early Birds have pretty much seen it all. From Oast houses to Dutch barns, new builds to listed properties; every building has its story to tell.
We are proud to be able to advise and guide our clients through the renovation process, so you can go back to picking out wallpaper – and not panicking over the state of the walls. Our process involves regular meetings with our clients onsite and the use of a project progress software, so they can be sure they understand everything that is happening, and we can discuss options when a challenge arises.
When it comes to home renovations, many people have fears about the work, time and cost involved. But anyone who has embarked on a project like this will tell you that if you get the right team on board, it can be a happy experience from start to finish.
With our expert knowledge and top-of-the-line materials, we will provide you with a project you will be proud of. Speak to our team today about how we can help you make your dream home a reality.
