100 Year Old House: Real‑World Renovation Tips

If you’ve just bought a century‑old cottage or inherited a Victorian villa, you’re probably excited—and a little nervous. Old houses have charm, but they also come with quirks that newer builds don’t. Below are the most useful things you can do right now to keep the structure safe, keep the character intact, and avoid costly surprises.

Spotting Common Problems Early

First thing’s first: walk the house inside and out and make a quick notes list. Look for cracks in walls, uneven floors, and doors that stick. In a 100‑year‑old home, a few of these signs are normal settlement, but larger cracks—especially around windows or at the foundation—can mean real trouble.

Check the basement or crawl space for dampness. A musty smell, water stains, or peeling plaster usually means the foundation is letting moisture in. If you see a crack that’s wider than a pencil line or one that keeps getting bigger, call a structural engineer. Fixes can be as simple as adding a drainage system, or they might need epoxy injection to seal the crack.

Next, inspect the roof and gutters. Older roofs often have a mix of slate, tile, or wooden shingles that have been patched over years. Look for missing pieces, rusted flashing, or gutters that are clogged. A leaky roof will quickly ruin new flooring or plaster you just installed.

Don’t forget the electrical and plumbing. Many historic homes still have knob‑and‑tube wiring or copper pipes that are prone to corrosion. If you notice flickering lights, frequent tripping of breakers, or a drop in water pressure, it’s time for a professional upgrade. Modern wiring and PEX plumbing are safer and can be hidden in existing walls without altering the look.

Respectful Upgrade Ideas

When you start the makeover, think about what you want to keep and what you can replace. Original features like sash windows, decorative plasterwork, or exposed brick add value and character. Preserve them whenever possible, but don’t be afraid to improve performance.

For windows, consider adding discreet secondary glazing. It keeps the original frame while improving insulation and reducing drafts. If the frames are rotten, replace them with replicas that match the original profile.

Flooring is another big decision. In high‑traffic rooms, durable laminate or engineered wood can look like hardwood without the expense of a full lay‑down. In lower‑traffic areas—like a formal sitting room—restore the original boards or lay a thin layer of reclaimed timber for an authentic feel.

When you’re ready to paint, pick breathable paints for plaster walls. Traditional lime paint lets walls “breathe” and prevents moisture from building up behind the surface. It also gives the soft, historic look many owners love.

Finally, think about energy efficiency. Adding insulation to the roof space is usually safe and gives a big boost to heating bills. Wall insulation can be tricky in old homes because you don’t want to trap moisture, so talk to an expert about breathable insulation options.

Renovating a 100‑year‑old house is a mix of detective work and careful upgrades. By checking the foundation, roof, and services early, you’ll avoid costly fixes later. Preserve the details that make the house special, and use modern solutions where they matter most. With a clear plan, you’ll turn that old gem into a safe, comfortable home that still feels like it’s been there for a hundred years.