Do you feel as if modern homes today are too bland? Are you thinking of buying a new property, but cannot imagine forking out a lot of cash for one of those "cookie cutter" houses in suburbia? If so, you will undoubtedly have your eye on an older property, with a great deal of character. However, you'll want to maintain its appeal and will also want to make sure that it is up to date in terms of its fixtures and fittings. You can expect to run into some issues here, particularly in relation to the plumbing, as your work progresses. What are some of the challenges you have ahead of you?
Turning Back the Clock
The plumbing system in the typical period home is quite different to that of the modern-day version. People may have lived simpler lives back then, but that's not to say that you have to do so today. Therefore, you are going to have to introduce some upgrades in order to make you and your family happy. It's quite probable, for example, that there aren't enough toilets in relation to the number of bedrooms.
System Integrity
Also, you have to look at the integrity of the basic plumbing system in place and it's likely to be based around the use of galvanised pipes, as they were commonplace "back then." Over the years, previous owners may well have replaced some of the piping system when problems arose, but other areas are likely to be affected by corrosion to a certain extent and may tend to clog quite easily.
The first thing to check is the water pressure. If it's low when you turn on the hot tap, this could indicate that some of the galvanised pipes are rusted, as hot water versions are particularly susceptible to this.
Checking the Sewer
What about the sewer line? Remember, it's your responsibility from the property itself all the way to the boundaries and you need to have a look at the integrity here. Tree roots in and around your home could have infiltrated the sewer lines, especially as many of them were made from cast iron, modified tar paper or clay. Today, these would not pass inspection, especially as tar paper can contain asbestos. Also, cast-iron pipes rust easily and clay pipes won't put up with tree roots.
New Looks like Old
Once you've looked at all of the basics, turn your attention to the plumbing fixtures inside. You might like the look of the old taps and want to retain that "retro" appeal. The good news is that you can buy brand-new plumbing fixtures today that are designed with the old look, but are far more efficient in helping you to save water.
Don't Go It Alone
If you need help renovating the plumbing system in your home, get in touch with a professional for their advice.