A significant number of homes in the UK were built before 1980 and about 4.7 million were constructed pre-1919. The main reason why the UK’s housing stock is so old is that most are brick or stone-built and therefore designed to be long-lasting and weather resistant. They are not well insulated, but that’s a whole other conversation.
The good news if you buy an older, period property is that it will likely be larger and probably cheaper than a modern home. It may also still have a lot of attractive period features, which are a selling point. However, renovating such a property requires a bit of care, so you don’t end up ruining the features that make it more attractive. Read on for some tips.
Is it a Listed Building?
Be mindful of whether the property is a listed building. There are currently just under 22k Grade II listed buildings in England, many of which are residential homes. Renovating a listed home is a lot trickier, as written consent must be obtained before alterations and other building works are carried out. Even something as routine as replacing a kitchen or bathroom may be a problem, depending on which features are to be protected. Ignore the rules at your peril.
Tackle the Underlying Problems First
Many older homes have damp issues because they don’t have modern damp-proof courses. Back in the days before central heating and uPVC windows, damp wasn’t an issue because houses were naturally well ventilated. Drafts came in under doors and around windows and were swept up the chimney, effectively removing moisture from the walls and floors. When drafts are eradicated, moisture has nowhere to go, so it rises up walls and lingers, creating damp patches.
If your property has a damp problem, you can inject a chemical damp-proof course into the brickwork, replace timber floors, and more. It’s best to speak to an expert for advice, as the problem may be caused by any number of issues. The wiring and plumbing may also need to be upgraded. Check the roof too, as roofs generally do not last as long as the rest of the building. These are all issues that should be fixed first.
Preserve Original Features Where Possible
Even if the building is not listed, it is better to retain the original features where possible. Instead of installing UPVc windows, look at replacing rotten timber windows with modern timber sash windows from Timbawood in London. You can retain the original look but enjoy modern benefits, such as high-security fasteners and acoustic glass. Try to preserve plaster cornices and decorative ceiling features. Many more experienced plasterers can repair damaged plasterwork and recreate original cornices.
Visit Architectural Salvage Yards
Look for old fireplaces and the like in architectural salvage yards. A beautiful fireplace from the right period will enhance a room in a period property, as will stripped timber doors and period door furniture.
Renovating a period property is often a labour of love. Take your time and do things the right way, instead of cutting corners and trying to save money. It may take longer, but the house will be worth more if it is restored sympathetically.
