Renovating an old home is a big decision, especially if it’s been in the family for generations. You need it to be done right. It can become a stressful situation, especially when you’re on a tight budget. If this is your first time renovating, there are several things you should know before getting started. You know you need to hire the right team for the job, but where do you start? How do you know they’re the right team? Do they have enough experience?
These are all excellent questions, and Winthorpe Design & Build is here to help. We know how stressful and confusing renovating is, and we are dedicated to making this process as painless as possible. When you work with us, you don’t need a separate architect because we do the planning and the construction. Architects are expensive and take extra time to coordinate with the build team, so why not hire a team that does both?
Is Renovating the Same as Remodeling?
No. Although people often use the two terms interchangeably, they have different connotations. Remodeling involves drawing up a design and replacing what you have with something new. Renovating refers more to the restoration or renewal of what is already there. Essentially, the difference is the severity of the changes being made.
Should I Renovate My Old Home?
The decision is yours, but the reasons for renovating are often more than aesthetics. Old homes often hide a range of health hazards, some of which can’t be fixed without a renovation.
The United States didn’t regulate the use of Asbestos until 1970. Asbestos is dangerous because it naturally sheds microscopic fibers. When a person breathes asbestos particles in, they become lodged in the lungs and lead to serious diseases, including cancer and mesothelioma.
The US didn’t ban the use of lead in construction until 1978. Lead, when ingested, can affect the production of blood cells, the absorption rate of calcium (which is necessary for bone health), muscle movement and strength, and the function of nerves. At higher levels, it can cause permanent organ and brain damage.
Older houses are also more prone to leach radon, a harmful elemental gas, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Old homes generally have poor insulation and inadequate water protection, making them more susceptible to mold and mildew. Prolonged exposure to any of these factors can be harmful to your health, especially as time goes on.
Is Renovating Worth My Time and Money?
Renovating an old home takes a lot of time, money, and effort. Some people may not see the appeal, while others think it would be foolish not to. Is renovating an old house worth everything you put into it, or should you opt for something newer and more modern?
Renovating an old home does take more effort, it doesn’t always take longer, and it is often cheaper than buying a new home. Not only does renovating an old house give your home more character, but it also gives it more value. 
Should I Stay in the House During Construction?
Many homeowners prefer moving out while the renovation process is underway. They find that it’s less stressful, there are fewer people in the way, and the construction workers also benefit. Living away also means that you don’t have to plan the construction around your schedule, which means the project won’t take as long, and you won’t have to pay as much. Ultimately, though, the decision of whether or not to move is yours.
How can Winthorpe Design & Build Help?
Winthorpe Design & Build is a design-build firm that has the expertise you need. We’ve been doing business with the people of Maryland and Washington D.C. for roughly 30 years, and we’ve just about seen it all. When renovating an old home, you must hire a firm with experience and first-hand knowledge of construction. Otherwise, there can be miscommunication and unnecessary setbacks.
Luckily, Winthorpe Design & Build has all the experience necessary to deliver flawless results quickly and efficiently. Our mission is making sure that you have an enjoyable experience and go through as little stress as possible. We pride ourselves on our expertly practical scheduling and careful planning abilities.
Renovating your old home is an arduous task, so don’t put yourself through any more effort than you have to. Hire the best design-build firm in the Maryland / D.C. area and leave the work to us. Hire Winthorpe Design & Build, because we’re here for you every step of the way.
For more information go to our website. We offer virtual chats and online consultation so you can plan your next project from the safety and comfort of your own home.
Feel free to call us any time at:
301-854-2092 (our office number)
Or
202-600-2515 (our metro number)
We look forward to working with you!
