Owners of older houses are often justifiably proud of the architectural beauty and elegance of their homes. However, if your home is more than 50 years old, it may be stately but also dangerous. These are some of the most common potential hazards homeowners face. Some are prevalent only in older homes, while others endanger homes both old and new.
Mold
Mold grows wherever there is moisture, and almost all houses have some mold growth. Not all people are affected by mold exposure. However, if you are sensitive to mold you may experience eye irritation, nasal stuffiness, wheezing, and skin irritation. People in contact with large amounts of mold sometimes experience fevers, shortness of breath, and fungal infections in the lungs.
Usually you can see and smell mold, and you can treat it yourself with a solution of one cup of bleach in one gallon of water. When applying it be sure to wear rubber gloves, goggles, and an N-95 facial mask. Sometimes, moldy carpets and walls need to be removed and replaced. This, of course, is a job for a professional. Professional mold testing generally costs $200-$300 for sampling and a report. Replacing mold-saturated carpets and drywall will cost considerably more.
Lead
Lead was banned for use in house construction in 1978, but older houses invariably contain some lead. Children under six are most at risk, and the danger is mainly from lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust. Lead can harm brain, kidney, and nervous system development, so keep children and pregnant women away from peeling or flaking paint.
It is usually sufficient to avert the threat by painting over the old paint. Wipe damp windows and wet-mop floors frequently. Plant grass over bare soil outside, and have children play in a sandbox instead of in the dirt. A professional inspection by a lead hygienist costs about $500. If the situation requires professional lead paint removal it will be a major renovation project.
Asbestos
Because asbestos is heat resistant it was commonly used in ceiling and floor tiles, roofing shingles, insulation, ducts, and exhaust systems. Inhaling asbestos can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, a scarring of the lungs for which there is no treatment. Exposure occurs only when asbestos material is disturbed, deteriorated, or damaged. If the asbestos material is in good condition you can leave it where it is. Otherwise, you need to either cover the asbestos or replace it. A professional asbestos inspection costs between $350 and $650, and the cost of material replacement will depend on how much area needs to be replaced.
Old Wiring
Older homes are subject to house fires because wiring corrodes over time. The rubber insulation compound used before 1950 becomes brittle and deteriorates. If your circuit breakers trip frequently, if you are subject to shocks, if your lights flicker, or if you notice unusual electrical smells, your home's electrical system may require renovation. For about $100 a professional electrician will inspect your system and make an estimate of what needs to be done.
You can handle some potential dangers in your home yourself. However, for more serious and complex jobs such as stripping away lead paint or removing asbestos and replacing it, professionals may have to come in with hazmat suits and special equipment. When in doubt, have professional inspectors come and assess home dangers.
This article was provided by Chase Roberts, professional interior and exterior designer. If you have have popcorn-style ceilings that may contain asbestos, Chase recommends visiting www.wadearch.com for more information on wood ceiling installation.
You can also learn more at the DIY Gorilla page.
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