Sold on Old? What to Watch for Living in/Buying an Older House

5/11/2023 (Permalink)

What's lurking behind your walls?

It’s been said that old structures are full of charm, rich history, and memories of what once was, but what else may still be lurking in the walls and halls? Not every part of a home will and should stand the test of time. It’s important to be aware of the structural and safety issues that come with an old house. Depending on what year your home was built, here’s what to look out for:

Before 1989:

The EPA issued a final rule banning most asbestos-containing products this year, no new products containing asbestos are to be manufactured. Asbestos exposure can cause several different types of cancer,

 so it’s crucial to know what to look for. 

Before 1980:

Cast-iron pipes were popular before 1980 for their durability and longevity. One of the reasons cast-iron pipes are no longer used is their susceptibility to corrosion and rust. 

Before 1978:

Lead paint in exterior and interior paint is likely to have been used if it was built before this year. 

Before 1970: It’s likely your home doesn’t have any mitigation system in place since radon gas was not considered a serious threat until the 1970s. Unlike newly constructed homes, older homes don’t have the proper ventilation to direct radon gas out of living space. 

Between 1960- mid-1970s:

Aluminum wiring on its own isn’t considered a hazardous material. When connected to a terminal made from copper or another metal a corrosive chemical reaction could occur, leading to an electrical fire. 

Between 1890s-1930s:

Knob and tube wiring do not have a ground wire, making them incapable of servicing any three-pronged appliances. This type of wiring is far more likely to have unsafe modifications than modern wiring. The age alone of knob and tube wiring is the main reason it can be so unsafe. 

Don’t let this information scare you! Most of these problems can be dealt with and resolved if handled properly. SERVPRO® Team McCabe has the resources and skills to help you with these issues, so feel free to reach out!