Needless to say, there’s just something tremendous about older houses. Older homes have a charm that’s hard to beat; honestly, there’s something about them that newly constructed homes just can’t even replicate. From unique architecture to detailed craftsmanship, these houses carry a sense of history that new builds just can’t replicate. While they’re amazing, they’re also essentially fixer-uppers.
Old homes obviously can’t be as strong as a fortress forever, but it’s not just about their structural integrity. It’s also about the environmental aspect. So, many homeowners are looking to make their homes more sustainable. While there are always those small changes that any home can make, it’s usually the major ones (the more invasive ones) that are a cause for concern.
So, how can you make a greener home that doesn’t compromise the character that makes your home so special? Well, here’s what you need to know!
You’ll Have to Start with a Plan
When it comes to upgrading an older home, it’s about striking the right balance between modern needs and historical integrity, so first, take stock of what makes your home unique—whether it’s the original windows, intricate woodwork, or those antique fixtures that give the place its soul. Any changes you make should aim to boost energy efficiency while keeping these defining features intact.
For example, instead of swapping out old windows for brand-new ones, think about restoring them. Adding storm windows can give you that energy efficiency boost without messing with the home’s classic look. And when it comes to insulation, go for eco-friendly options that won’t disturb the existing plaster or woodwork such as foam— but it’s still a good idea to talk to a contractor that has experience in that.
Choose Sustainable Materials
When making updates, the materials you choose can make all the difference. Ideally, you should opt for sustainable options that fit in with your home’s original style. If the flooring needs replacing, consider reclaimed wood that matches the era of your home.
This way, you’re recycling and preserving the aesthetic at the same time. So, when it comes to walls and roofing, look for materials that mimic the original design but come with modern benefits.
And don’t forget about paint—low-VOC paints and finishes are better for the environment and will keep your home looking great without compromising its character. So, there are usually special businesses that solely focus on recycled and older materials for historical homes (it’s extremely niche, so you’ll want to look there for materials).
It’s About Minding the Details
For example, when it comes to exterior updates like garage door repair, it’s a good idea to choose a style that complements your home’s facade. You don’t need anything modern or even straight from the ‘90s, either.
But there are more than enough designs and colors out there that can help improve your home’s energy efficiency while keeping that old-time charm alive. So, this is just one example: think about blackout curtains of a certain color or style or even just using some smart light bulbs. Those little details tend to make the biggest difference.
Blend Old and New
So, this basically goes hand in hand with what was being mentioned right just above. So, needless to say, bringing modern technology into an older home can be tricky, but it’s totally doable. The key is to introduce tech in ways that don’t stick out like a sore thumb.
For example, if you have smart home technology like a smart thermostat, hide it behind a picture frame, use vintage-style gadgets that are actually modern (like a Smeg coffee maker), or avoid invasive installation in general.
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