Old house architecture has a charm and character seldom seen in modern “cookie cutter” houses. Old buildings were built for longevity, and are likely to outlive their more modern counterparts.

Remodeling old home architecture, however, can be unnerving. Too many people build additions onto old buildings that ruin the look of the home. A home architect should be able to fulfill your needs without altering an old house architecture style.

Old buildings also come with unique challenges to the process of architecture. Unfortunately, these usually go unnoticed until the design process of architecture is finished and construction begins, resulting in costly and time consuming revisions.

The following are some potential problems with old house architecture that can interfere with the process of architecture.

Old Buildings: Cracked Foundations

If old buildings have finished basements, you may not realize it until you start tearing down the walls. Cracked foundations are a source of serious problems, including:

• Mold
• Radon
• Termites
• Water damage.

Depending on the extent of damage, you may need to seal your basement as part of the process of architecture. A home architect may also need to plan for proper drainage. While you can’t foresee hidden cracks, complete a radon test before starting the process of architecture to see if you’ll need to budget resources to fix this problem. (Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and leaches into homes through cracked foundations.)

Electricity and Old Buildings

Old house architecture was not designed with today’s appliances and electronics in mind. You may discover a number of problems with electrical working in old house architecture, including:

• Bathrooms and kitchens without ground fault interrupters in case of water to wiring contact
• Electric boxes wired for 60 to 100 amps instead of 200 amps
• Old, frayed electrical wiring
• Ungrounded wiring (outlets may have two instead of three prongs).

Plumbing, Insulation and Old House Architecture

Tearing apart walls and floors in old buildings can reveal some unexpected surprises. Imagine pulling up old carpet to discover it’s been hiding solid wood flooring.

More often, however, the surprises are much less pleasant. Opening up a wall may reveal structural damage, plumbing problems or termites. Suddenly discovering portions of your plumbing are the original lead pipes can cause delays and expenses to your home architect project. Some old buildings still contain asbestos insulation, a carcinogenic compound requiring special removal techniques. (Your home architect can’t even touch asbestos legally without a special permit).

Professionals recommend budgeting for delays to home architect projects when dealing with old house architecture. Before starting the process of architecture, imagine the worst case scenario. Budget for your home architect project as if that problem is a reality. (This advice doesn’t just apply to old buildings. Always budget for unexpected problems with any architecture project).

Old home architecture can be sturdy, long-lasting and well designed. Remodeling old buildings may cost extra over the short-term, but the results often extend the form and function of a beautiful home.