Restoration of Old Houses: Advantages and Support

Old houses have a unique historical and architectural heritage that sets them apart from modern dwellings. The restoration of old houses is an effective way to preserve this heritage while reducing the environmental footprint, as it makes use of much of the existing materials, maintains the original integrity of the building, and helps to perpetuate its historical legacy.
Although it may seem like a simple process, the restoration of old houses is a considerable challenge, as these properties mostly present serious issues—many caused by rainwater infiltration that damages both structural and non-structural elements, such as wooden moldings or plasterwork.
In this regard, it is essential to carry out a preliminary assessment report on the condition of the property, gathering as much information as possible to enable an accurate diagnosis of the building. Want to know more? Keep reading the article.

What are the advantages of restoring old houses? And the disadvantages?

If you still have doubts about restoring an old building, discover the main advantages of purchasing and restoring an old house:

• Preservation of history: The restoration of old houses allows for maintaining their original history and architecture, turning them into a cultural and historical landmark for the community.
• Reuse of old materials: In restoration, it is possible to reuse period materials such as wood, bricks, and tiles, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible project.
• Property with identity: Restoration ensures the preservation of the house’s unique style and personality, making it a welcoming and distinctive space.

As for the disadvantages, the main ones are structural problems that must be addressed before intervention, the longer execution time compared to new construction, and technical challenges during the work. However, these difficulties can be overcome with a competent and dedicated technical team.

Are there support programs for restoring old houses?

Currently, there are several loans available for the restoration of old houses, with IFRRU 2020 standing out as a key support. This programme provides financing for the restoration of old buildings to support rehabilitation and urban revitalization projects, aimed at individuals or collective entities, both public and private. This support covers:

• The complete restoration of buildings that are 30 years old or more (or with a poor or very poor condition rating if they are less than 30 years old);
• Intervention in social housing buildings and public spaces;
• Restoration of abandoned spaces or industrial units.

Furthermore, the restored buildings must be intended for housing or other economic activities, whether for collective or private use.

What should you take into account when restoring an old house?

When restoring old houses, there are several essential aspects to consider:

• Preservation of the original architecture: It’s important to maintain the appearance and integrity of the original architecture, including elements such as windows, doors, finishes, and ceilings.
• Building materials: Use appropriate and compatible construction materials to ensure the durability and structural integrity of the house.
• Foundations: Inspect and reinforce the foundations, if necessary, to ensure the stability and safety of the property.
• Electrical and plumbing systems: Modernise electrical and plumbing installations to meet current needs, without compromising the original character of the property.
• Thermal and acoustic insulation: Ensure proper insulation to provide comfort and improve energy efficiency.
• Compliance with building regulations: Make sure the restoration meets all local construction codes and regulations.

5 Ideas for Restoring Old Houses

If you’ve decided to invest in the restoration of an old house, here are some ideas to inspire your project:

• Preserve historical elements: Keep original floors, windows, doors, and finishes to maintain historical integrity.
• Reuse old materials: Use wood, bricks, and old tiles in new design projects to complement the house’s style.
• Add modern spaces: Include modern kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms while preserving the original style.
• Create gardens: Develop green areas, such as a winter garden, to enhance the property and create leisure spaces.
• Proper lighting: Use natural light and artificial lighting to highlight architectural features and create welcoming environments.

To ensure the success of the restoration, make sure to collaborate with specialised professionals, especially architects, who can advise you throughout every step of the process.

Looking for a solution to restore your old house?
Request a quote and discover how we can help with the restoration of your old house, preserving its historical value while adapting it to modern needs.