Making an old house safe and healthy for your family can be daunting. There are so many things to consider- the age of the home, the materials used in its construction, potential lead, and asbestos poisoning, just to name a few. But with a little bit of know-how, you can make your old home safe and healthy for your loved ones.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
Get a Home Inspection
A home inspection is a great way to assess the safety of your old home. A professional inspector will be able to identify any potential hazards, such as lead or asbestos poisoning and suggest ways to fix them.
If you can’t afford a home inspection, you can also do a DIY inspection by checking for certain warning signs, such as peeling paint or asbestos insulation.
Check for Lead Paint
Lead paint is a serious hazard and can cause several health problems in children and adults. It’s important to check for lead paint in your old home and take steps to remove it if found.
Some common warning signs of lead paint include:
-Peeling paint
-Chipping paint
-Paint that is flaking or cracking
-Windowsills, door frames, or baseboards that are painted a different color than the wall
If you suspect that your home contains lead paint, it’s important to get it tested as soon as possible. Contact a professional lead abatement company to have your home tested and, if necessary, removed.
Test for Asbestos
Asbestos is another serious hazard that can be found in old homes. It can cause several health problems, including lung cancer, if not removed properly.
If you suspect that your home contains asbestos, it’s important to get it tested as soon as possible. Contact a professional asbestos removal company to have your home tested and, if necessary, removed.
Repair and Clean Old Furniture
When it comes to furniture, old is often better. It tends to be more sturdy and durable than newer furniture, but it can also be much more beautiful and unique. However, if you don’t take proper care of your old furniture, it can quickly become faded, tattered, and even dangerous.
That’s why it’s important to regularly repair and clean old furniture. By sanding down any scratches or chips in the wood and cleaning the fabric with a mild soap and water solution, you can keep your furniture looking its best for years to come.
However, it’s important to use a different approach for metal furniture. Using sandblasting services to remove any built-up rust and corrosion can help to restore the furniture to its original condition.
Clean Up Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can be a serious hazard in old homes, as they can cause several health problems, including asthma and allergies. It’s important to clean up any mold and mildew regularly to keep your home safe and healthy.
The best way to clean up mold and mildew is with a mixture of bleach and water. Simply spray the mixture onto the affected areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, scrub the area with a brush or sponge until the mold and mildew are gone. Be sure to rinse the area well afterward to remove all bleach residues.
Install New Electrical Outlets
Old homes often have old, outdated electrical outlets. These can be a serious fire hazard, as they are more likely to overheat and start a fire.
That’s why it’s important to install new electrical outlets in your old home. By replacing your old outlets with new, safe ones, you can reduce the risk of a fire.
When choosing new electrical outlets, be sure to choose UL-rated ones. This means that they have been tested and approved by an independent safety organization.
Replace Old Windows and Doors
Replacing old windows and doors is a great way to improve the safety and security of your old home. Not only can they help to keep out the cold and the rain, but they can also help to keep out burglars.
When choosing new windows and doors, be sure to choose ones made from high-quality materials. This will help to ensure that they are durable and will last for years.
It’s also important to choose windows and doors sized correctly for your home. This will help to ensure that they fit properly and don’t let in any air or water leaks.
Conclusion
Making an old house safe and healthy for your family can be a daunting task, but it’s important to do it to keep your loved ones safe and healthy. By following the tips in this article, you can make your old home safe and healthy for your family.
