Renovating a home can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. It allows you to take an old property and transform it into your dream home. However, it is important to know that there can be some challenges along the way. Time can take its toll on homes; once the renovation begins, you may find some unexpected issues.
We’ve seen many problems during our time in the construction and renovation business. Some are more common than others, but they can all cause serious issues for your renovation project. Today, we will talk about some of the most common problems we see and how to deal with them. With this knowledge, you can be prepared for anything during your renovation.
1. Foundation Cracks
A foundation crack during a renovation can be a homeowner’s nightmare. The problem is sometimes diagnosed by the appearance of cracks in walls and floors, gaps along the edges of rooms, or doors and windows that stick. The issue can also be discovered during site work. Foundations can be damaged by the type of cement used, water retention, the house’s weight, or the earth’s settling. Fixing the damage can be very costly.
If you think your foundation might be cracked, you should have a structural engineer come and take a look. They’ll be able to tell you how bad the damage is and what needs to be done to fix it. Sometimes, the damage can be fixed by bolting steel braces onto the house. In other cases, the foundation may need to be underpinned with concrete piers or helical screws. In the most extreme cases, a new foundation might be necessary.
2. Outdated Plumbing and Electrical Work
Your home’s plumbing and electrical systems are not up-to-date with the current building code requirements. This can be a problem when renovating your home, as the old systems may not be able to support the new construction.
Old plumbing that uses galvanized pipes is prone to corrosion, clogging, and leaking. It is recommended that these pipes be replaced with newer, more modern pipes. Common modern pipe materials include PVC, CPVC, and copper. PEX pipe is a newer, more cutting-edge option that is more flexible, easier to use, and faster to install. It is also much less expensive than copper and more reliable than copper or CPVC.
3. Water Damage
Water damage is a problem that homeowners often face. It can be caused by several things, such as a leak in the roof or faulty plumbing. Water damage can be sneaky, and you may not even realize there is a problem until the walls are opened up for renovation.
Water damage can also be dramatic, with flooding being one of the most serious issues. If water damage is found during renovation, your builder will ensure that any structural and roofing issues are repaired. They may also need specialists to deal with secondary issues such as mould removal.
Conclusion
Home renovations can be a great way to improve your home’s value and appearance. However, they can also be a source of stress and frustration if not properly planned. Research, create a budget, and hire a reputable contractor to avoid issues. Your home renovation can be a smooth and enjoyable experience with a little preparation.
Contempo Renovation Solutions Inc. is a full-service construction and project management company committed to offering a professional service for your upcoming residential project. We combine a strong passion for design and quality craftsmanship with a thorough understanding of project management, budgets, and scheduling. If youโre looking for home renovation contractors in Toronto, we can help. Get in touch with us today!