Although it’s true some of us enjoy a cozy vintage look in our homes, that doesn’t mean you have to live the log-cabin life when it comes to daily tasks. New home technology can prevent injury and sickness and make life all-around more convenient and simple. Below are five of the many ways to remodel your house while keeping your own signature style.
Using New Outlet Sockets
The sockets installed in a house built twenty years ago tend to hold a bit more of a fire hazard as outlets have improved. Replacing these socket relics can be good to not only lower the risk of an electrical fire, but also update the overall appearance of your house. Adding outlets can also be helpful in older homes where they might not be placed in the most convenient places for newer appliances. Be sure to update your smoke detectors and electrical safety equipment here as well. Smoke detectors are required in every home in California, and most other states. Be safe and smart by updating this crucial piece of your modern home.
Replacing the Thermostat
Most, if not all, of the thermostats made years ago contain mercury, which can be lethal in the event of a leak. There’s no reason to continue living in a house that has a constant, potential health hazard if you can help it, but that doesn’t mean the thermostat gets your house. Get a professional to do some rewiring and return to normal life knowing that you’re no longer sharing a house with poison. Today’s smart homes use technology that merge your thermostat with a home alarm or security systems. These are great for monitoring your house from afar and being able to control the temperature from a smartphone.
Redoing Light Fixtures
There’s nothing that says, “old house” like an outdated light fixture, and while this doesn’t pose a health risk like mercury, it’s still a drag on your new look. Fortunately, all this takes is a quick trip to a home improvement store to combat the appearance of owning your childhood home.
Get Fresh Insulation
Most houses built before 1980 had asbestos built into the insulation, meaning your walls and ceiling. Breathing in the particles can cause potentially deadly cancer over time, and the prevention of that is as good a reason as any to change the insulation for something less detrimental to your health. It may sound like a big job to remove the current insulation and then put in new, but your lungs will thank you.
Replacing Appliances
Hardware like faucets, drawers, and door knobs, and appliances of things like refrigerators, freezers, ovens, or dishwashers are generally time-specific. It may take you a weekend or two and little bit of planning, and money to replace all these, but it’s all just part of the process. A little love here can help update any old-looking room.
With these updates, your house will look better and be safer all-around. Use your best judgement and be sure to plan for your budget as you make your old house meet the 21st century.