COMMON SITUATIONS FOUND IN OLDER HOMES: (A Good To Know Read)
Single pane windows (older windows)
Energy inefficiency is probably the number-one issue with older homes. Most older homes were constructed with single-pane windows; if these windows are still there, they likely don’t fit very well. Replacement windows can be very expensive, but will contribute immensely to reduced energy use and heating and cooling costs. Most replacement windows are available in several styles, so finding one that suits the look of your older home is easier than ever.
Poor Insulation:
Like single-pane windows, poor (or no) insulation will also result in wasted energy and money. The most important and easiest area of the home to insulate is the attic, but walls and floors above ventilated crawlspaces should be insulated as well if possible. The attic may already have insulation but it may be inadequate by current standards.
Electrical: Knob and Tube Wiring
Outdated electrical systems can still sometimes be found in older homes and may not only be dangerous, they can make the house uninsurable. Even if no danger is present, we use so much more electricity in our homes now that the capacity of your older system may be inadequate. Only a qualified electrician should attempt any repairs or updates to your home’s electrical system.
Definition:
“Knob and tube” wiring was used for about 50 years starting in the early 1900s. It is characterized by the use of separate wiring, ceramic insulators, and no junction boxes. For example: knob and tube wiring was installed so that the two wires required to create a circuit (one white, one black) run separately rather than bundled together. And, rather than being run directly through holes in the structural components, knob and tube wiring used protective ceramic tubes placed in the holes to prevent the wire from chafing against the woodwork.
Problems:
Some homeowners do their own renovations, adding outlets without proper connections. Some also over-fuse, that is, use 25 or 30 amp fuses to eliminate the 15 amp fuses from blowing out. The wiring is “ungrounded,” which means that it will not support three-prong plugs and appliances. Wires and insulation can become brittle and more susceptible to catching fire.
Electrical: 60-Amp Electrical Service
Definition:
New homes commonly have 100-amp service included in their construction, replacing the older 60-amp service that was used before 1950.
Problems:
Some homeowners have made their own repairs or upgrades, which are not necessarily safe. These increase the risk of overheating the wire distribution within a room
Electrical: Aluminum Electrical Distribution
Definition:
From the mid 1960’s to the mid 1970’s, single strand aluminum wiring was used extensively in homes. The use of aluminum wiring is still common and acceptable for 220 volts.
Problems:
Because aluminum tends to oxidize and is incompatible with certain fittings designed for use with copper wiring, problems have been reported with overheating and the failure of aluminum wiring terminals. Signs of these problems include discoloration of the wall receptacle, flickering lights, and the smell of hot plastic insulation.
Heating: Fuel Oil Tanks
Definition:
Oil tanks containing fuel to heat homes can be outside, either above or below ground, or inside in the basement.
Problems:
Just like other systems, as these tanks age, they often start corroding from the inside out, so that failure is not immediately visible or detectible. Condensation can build up and since oil is lighter than water, the water sinks to the bottom and corrosions begins. Signs of problems include the odor of oil in the air, rust or corrosion will appear where the legs meet the tank, or the tank could start leaking. Regardless of where the tank is located, the main concern is the leakage of oil into the soil and groundwater. Clean up, including environmental testing, can be extremely expensive.
Plumbing
If your home has older water pipes, have them checked to identify the material and determine if they need to be replaced. Some older materials such as galvanized steel, iron, and even lead are subject to deterioration and are still in use today even though new construction does not allow them. Replacement options include copper and CPVC piping.
Galvanized Plumbing
Definition:
Galvanized plumbing, in which the pipes are coated with zinc, was installed in homes prior to 1950.
Problems:
As they get older, the pipes tend to rust or corrode from the inside out. Problems can be detected by the reduction in water pressure and restricted water flow. The worse case scenario is leaking and flood damage to the home. Since galvanized plumbing’s life expectancy is approximately 40–50 years, the risk of leakage after that period is very high.
WHAT TO DO?
For knob and tube wiring:
- Have a qualified electrical contractor check for signs of deterioration, poor connections, overheating, or alterations.
- Have a home inspector check for visible electrical safety concerns
For aluminum wiring: (You will need an ESA Report done by a qualified Inspector to get insurance for the home.)
Add an electrical contractor to the home inspection for a total safety check.
For fuel oil tanks:
Contact the fuel oil supplier prior to closing to determine if inspections have been completed
