In this web page we will look at various time periods and a few items that should be looked after when considering carrying out any old house upgrades. 1. Wiring in a 1920's Home When modifying a 1920's property the electrical system was known as "Knob & Tube" because it was strung alongside wooden framing on ceramic knobs and then run through lumber via ceramic tubes. If your house has this type of wiring in your home it is important that you hire a contractor to upgrade your system as soon as possible as it is not safe for a number of reasons. 2. Removal of Steel Water Pipes Steel plumbing was used in residential and commercial properties from 1900 to 1940 and although they worked well until the mortgage was paid off after that they start to rust shut (much like an artery becomes clogged). Soon you will be aware that your water pressure has begun to drop if you have this type of plumbing in your home or else you may not be aware of a problem until a pipe actually ruptures. So it is vital that you remove and replace in your place before the problems begin to surface. 3. Wall Insulation Before 1940 many places did not have protection from the cold and the insulation below the roof often was not much better. However, if you wish to upgrade the insulation of your old home then why not contract for blown in insulation. All it takes is a small hole to be drilled in each wall and then the contractor you employ can blow in the insulation to fill the spaces and so warm up your own home. 4. Asbestos Heating Pipes and Ducts Up until the 1940's asbestos was used as insulation for heating systems. As we have recently discovered, this stuff is dangerous you will have to call up and arrange for an professional company who is qualified in dealing with asbestos problems to come in and take it away. You should also have them reinsulate the pipes for you with a non-toxic product. It may be wise at this stage to actually decide to upgrade the entire heating system to be upgraded as well. 5. Undersized Electrical Systems Most, if not all older homes will need to have their electrical supply systems upgraded as usually they will have one or more rooms on the same circuit. You may find that as soon as the compressor engages on the refrigerator the lights in your unit begin to dim. Therefore arrange for a qualified electrician to come in and review the wiring of your houseand agree to have it renewed as they see fit. 6. Replacing Windows Because most of the windows during the 1940's and 1960's were made from low quality steel or aluminium you will need to look at upgrading them in order to properly protect your house from the effects of mother nature. There are many firms around who can produce weather protection which will reflect the appeal of your home without you having to lose out on your comfort. Before you get your hammer out, study the above items as these are some things which will need to be considered when carrying out such a project.
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