Buying an Old House? Upgrade These Things First
It’s never a bad time to buy a fixer-upper. Whether you are looking to flip and re-invest, or you just want to make it your own passion project, it’s a valid way to increase value. Buying older homes can often give you a good deal, especially when compared to the higher prices of all its surrounding homes. But you know that when you invest, you are in for a repair project. It might take some time to complete a list of things that need to be fixed or upgraded in the house. But some things take priority over others. Our New Generation Plumbing team wants you to know which emergency plumbing services are a must-have when upgrading your old home.
The Foundation
The infrastructure of the home should be the first and most important assessment. Without maintaining structural integrity, the entire house could collapse. Cracks and creaks are usually a sign of foundational damage; however, not every type of crack is cause for concern. Inspectapedia makes a comprehensive list of the different types of foundational cracks and what to look for in your home.
The Roof
Damage in the roof can destroy the entire structure of the house. Cracks and weak spots can make the home prone to leaks, and seeping moisture will cause more foundational damage. It’s important to solve any roof problems as quickly as possible, as it only becomes more difficult to replace the more damaged it gets.
Some signs of a damaged asphalt-shingled roof include:
- Broken, cracked, or loose shingles
- Blistering on one or more shingles
- Bubbling of the asphalt
- Cracks or holes in the asphalt
You should also check the status of the gutters, exhaust pipes, and other areas where the roof makes contact with the walls.
Plumbing
Making sure the house is structurally intact is a great first step, but that still does not guarantee that the house is livable. A home with plumbing issues may not be able to provide hot water, or any water at all until the issues are resolved. If you notice during a home inspection that there are issues with running water, you need to invest in emergency plumbing services as soon as possible.
Our New Generation Plumbing experts make emergency plumbing and water heater repair services available for those who are looking to fix and upgrade their old homes. Some of the most critical places to check for plumbing issues include:
- Supply lines
- Drains
- Fixtures
- Water filtration systems
- Water heater
- Shut-off valves
- Venting systems
- Sinks, showers, and toilets
A full inspection of your pipes is recommended before moving into your new (old) home.
Windows
Working windows are essential to regulating indoor temperatures and keeping contaminants out of the home. If you don’t want to feel constantly drafty, you might want to invest in a window inspection and replacement service before settling in.
There may be nothing wrong with your windows at all, but they can still be outdated and require an upgrade. For example, single-pane glass windows are extremely energy inefficient. They will not help keep the home insulated or regulated. Replace old windows to give your home a nice upgrade.
Invest in Pasadena and Highland Park Plumbing Services
At New Generation Plumbing, we will always bring you our very best. When you’ve purchased an old house and you want to start on the necessary repairs to turn it into the home of your dreams, our team can be there to help. We offer emergency plumbing services and repairs to help with replacements or new installations. Count on our Pasadena plumbers for affordable, reliable, and punctual service. Interested in being a new customer of ours? Check out our specials! For more information, or to schedule your consultation, contact us online or call us at (323) 274-4863 and we’ll get started.