My Tried & Tested 21 Ways for Renovating an Old House
Staring at peeling wallpaper and creaky floors in your old house? I know that feeling.
Those charming period features drew you in, but now the reality hits – you’re stuck with outdated wiring, mysterious wall stains, and a budget that keeps growing.
Every weekend brings a new surprise hiding behind those vintage walls.
But here’s something hopeful: I’ve helped restore dozens of old homes and learned what really works. In this guide, I’ll walk you through 20 tested tips that will save you time, money, and stress.
No more guessing games or costly mistakes – just clear steps to bring your historic home back to life while keeping its character intact.
21 Ways to Renovate Your Old Old House
These tips help make old houses work better while looking good, too. Each change makes your home more comfortable and up-to-date.
Start with what bugs you most – even small fixes feel great when they’re done!
1. Upgrade Kitchen Cabinets
I’ve found that kitchen cabinets can look brand new without spending too much money. You can paint them yourself with a good primer and paint.
Want something different? Try taking off some cabinet doors to show off your nice dishes.
New handles can make a big difference, too!
2. Modernize Bathroom Fixtures
Small changes in your bathroom can make it feel like new. I suggest starting with a new sink faucet – it’s an easy weekend job.
Fresh light fixtures near your mirror will help you see better.
A new showerhead can turn your daily shower into something special.
3. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
Nothing beats paint for giving rooms new life.
I like to test colors on small wall spots first. Light colors make rooms feel bigger, while darker shades add warmth.
Don’t forget to buy good brushes and rollers – they make the job much easier.
4. Replace Flooring
New floors can change how your whole house feels.
I recommend vinyl planks for wet areas – they’re tough and look great. Real wood works well in living spaces.
Want something cheaper? Laminate gives you the wood look without the high cost.
5. Install Statement Backsplashes
Your kitchen deserves some style!
I like using tiles to protect walls from splashes and add color. Glass tiles sparkle nicely under cabinet lights. Ceramic tiles come in many patterns.
You can do this project over a weekend – I tried it myself with stick-on tiles first.
6. Create an Accent Wall
One special wall can change your whole room!
Pick a wall that people notice when they walk in. Try bold paint colors or pretty wallpaper. Wood panels add texture and warmth.
This is a fun weekend project that won’t break the bank.
7. Upgrade Lighting
Good lighting makes every room better! Put small lights on the ceiling for even brightness.
Hang pretty lights over kitchen islands or dining tables.
Add strips of lights under cabinets to help you see better while cooking. New lights can make rooms feel bigger and more welcoming.
8. Replace Old Doors
New doors can make your home feel fresh! Sliding barn doors save space and look nice.
Panel doors add style to bedrooms.
Don’t forget that door handles are like jewelry for your doors. Even painting old doors can make them look new again.
9. Add Built-In Storage
Smart storage makes life easier! Build shelves into wall spaces between studs. Add a bench with storage by a window for a cozy reading spot.
Put cabinets in empty corners. Built-ins give you more space without taking up floor room.
10. Refresh Outdoor Spaces
Make your outside areas feel like extra rooms! Clean and paint your porch or deck. Add comfy chairs and some potted plants.
String up some lights for evening time. A nice outdoor space gives you more living areas when the weather’s good.
11. Install New Countertops
Better countertops make cooking more fun!
I replaced my old counters with butcher block – it’s warm and natural. Granite stays cool for baking. Quartz resists stains and scratches.
Even laminate comes in nice styles now that look like stone but cost less.
12. Replace Hardware
Small changes make big differences! New handles on cabinets can update your whole kitchen.
Pick finishes that match your faucets. Mix knobs and pulls for interest.
This quick fix takes just an afternoon but changes how everything looks.
13. Add Smart Home Features
Make your housework smarter! Put in thermostats, which you can control from your phone.
Try lights that turn on when you walk in. Add cameras to see who’s at the door.
These gadgets help save energy and make life easier.
14. Install Crown Moulding
Trim makes rooms look finished! Add molding where walls meet the ceiling. Paint it to match your walls or make it stand out.
You can start with simple styles.
It’s like adding a nice frame to make a room look complete.
15. Update Windows
New windows keep your house comfy! They stop cold air in winter and hot air in summer.
Better windows mean lower energy bills. Double-pane glass cuts down on outside noise.
Plus, clean new windows let in more light.
16. Modernize Appliances
New appliances save money over time!
Look for energy-saving labels when shopping. Stainless steel looks clean and matches everything. Check for sales at big stores.
Modern appliances often use less water and power than old ones.
17. Create a Home Office Nook
Turn a small space into a work spot! Find an unused corner or closet.
Add a simple desk and good lighting. Put up shelves for storage above. A small filing cabinet can hide under the desk.
Now you have a proper spot to work!
18. Install Wainscoting
Wall panels add class to any room! Put them halfway up walls in hallways or dining rooms.
Paint them to match or contrast with the upper walls. They protect walls from scuffs, too.
This old-style detail works in new homes, too.
19. Redo Fireplaces
Make your fireplace the star! Paint old brick for a quick update.
Add stone or tile around it. Change the mantel for a new look. A fresh fireplace makes the whole room feel better.
It’s worth the work since everyone notices it.
20. Improve Curb Appeal
First looks matter!
Fresh paint makes houses look loved. Plant flowers near the door.
Fix up the mailbox and house numbers. Clean windows and power wash walkways.
Good outdoor looks make coming home feel better.
21. Add Multi-Functional Furniture
Make furniture work harder! Get Ottomans with storage inside.
Try beds with drawers underneath. Use coffee tables that lift for eating.
Smart furniture helps small spaces work better for living.
DIY Guide for Remodelling an Old House
Tools and Materials Required
- Drywall and framing materials
- Cabinet sets for the kitchen
- Tiles for bathroom and backsplash
- Wood accents for walls
- Paint supplies
- Flooring materials
- Basic demolition tools (hammers, etc.)
- Pest control supplies
- Dumpsters for waste removal
Step-by-Step Process for Renovation
1. Initial Cleanup
- Remove all trash and debris
- Clear overgrown yard
- Take out damaged furniture
2. Structural Assessment
- Check for water damage in walls and ceiling
- Look for pest problems (like carpenter ants)
- Test wall stability
3. Demolition Work
- Remove damaged drywall
- Take out rotted walls
- Clear damaged ceilings
- Strip old flooring
4. Basic Repairs
- Treat pest issues
- Fix structural problems
- Install new drywall
- Add fresh framing where needed
5. Room Updates
- Install new flooring
- Put in kitchen cabinets
- Add bathroom fixtures
- Place backsplash tiles
6. Final Touches
- Paint walls
- Add wood accents
- Install lighting
- Clean and prepare for sale
An Approximate Budget Required for Renovations
| Category | Cost Details | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Costs | General contractor fee | 10-15% of total project cost |
| Plumbers | $45-$150 per hour | |
| Electricians | $50-$130 per hour | |
| Painters | $20-$70 per hour | |
| Carpenters | $35-$100 per hour | |
| Material Costs | Cabinets (35% of budget) | $5,250-$17,500 |
| Countertops (11% of budget) | $1,650-$5,500 | |
| Flooring (7% of budget) | $1,050-$3,500 | |
| Hardware and fixtures (3% of budget) | $450-$1,500 | |
| Permits and Fees | Building permits | $500-$2,000 |
| City permit fee (varies by location) | 1% of total construction cost | |
| Kitchen remodelling | Minor updates | $5,000-$20,000 |
| Mid-range remodel | $29,000-$64,000 | |
| High-end remodel | $60,000-$125,000 | |
| Bathroom Renovations | Total cost range | $5,000-$25,000 |
| Bathtub | $800-$6,000 | |
| Cabinets | $600-$3,900 | |
| Countertops | $450-$1,500 | |
| Shower | $800-$8,000 | |
| Toilet | $120-$800 | |
| Living Room Upgrades | Total cost range | $2,500-$10,000 |
| Flooring | $1,000-$3,800 | |
| Fireplace | $1,000-$5,000 | |
| Crown molding | $400-$1,100 | |
| Window updates | $400-$1,000 per window | |
| Bedroom Remodels | Total cost range | $1,500-$5,000 |
| Paint | $350-$1,400 | |
| Flooring | $300-$2,000 | |
| Trim work | $500-$1,500 | |
| Ceiling fan | $150-$350 | |
| Flooring Costs | Laminate | $1,400-$3,400 |
| Hardwood (multiple rooms) | $1,000-$3,800 | |
| Carpet | $400-$3,000 | |
| Tile (varies by room size/material) | Custom pricing | |
| Painting Costs | Interior painting | $1,200-$4,000 |
| Exterior painting | $1,800-$3,200 | |
| Cabinet painting | $900-$3,800 | |
| Window Replacement | New windows (per window, including installation) | $400-$1,000 |
| Roof Repairs | Full roof replacement | $5,700-$16,000 |
| Asphalt shingles | $3-$6 per square foot | |
| Metal roofing | $5-$16 per square foot | |
| Tile roofing | $7-$25 per square foot | |
| Exterior Upgrades | Total cost range | $6,000-$20,000 |
| Landscaping | $2,000-$4,000 | |
| Siding | $2,800-$15,800 | |
| New garage door | $550-$1,800 | |
| Deck or Patio | New deck | $2,200-$10,000 |
| Paver patio | $1,900-$6,800 | |
| Screened porch | $600-$3,500 | |
| DIY vs. Professional | DIY kitchen or bathroom remodel | $2,500-$12,000 |
| Professional work | $20,000-$50,000 | |
| Unforeseen Expenses | Budget for unexpected issues (10-15% of total cost) | Structural repairs, code updates, damage |
Certain Safety Precautions to Consider
When remodeling old houses, protect yourself from harmful dust, mold, and structural hazards. Always wear a mask, goggles, and gloves. Test for asbestos and lead before starting work.
Personal Protection Equipment
- Wear safety glasses for eye protection
- Use thick gloves for hand safety
- Put on dust masks for lung protection
Air Quality Management
- Keep windows open on both sides
- Set up fans for proper air movement
- Plan extra ventilation for paint jobs
Power and Wiring Safety
- Cut power at the main breaker
- Use voltage testers before touching wires
- Work in natural daylight when possible
Material Safety Testing
- Check for lead paint in pre-1978 homes
- Test popcorn ceilings for asbestos
- Buy home testing kits for safety checks
Code Compliance
- Contact local offices about permits
- Learn about building regulations
- Ensure work meets legal standards
Some Essential Home Maintenance Tips I Tried
Before fixing my home’s small issues, I check all areas carefully. Regular checks can prevent costly repairs. Set up a monthly schedule to spot problems early.
1. Indoor Cleaning and Care
- Clean floors and surfaces weekly with soap and water
- Fix paint chips when you see them to stop bigger damage
- Put coasters under drinks to protect tables and counters
- Check water pipes in sinks and toilets for drips
2. Kitchen and Bathroom Care
- Clean faucets with vinegar to remove buildup
- Check under sinks for water leaks each month
- Seal stone counters once a year to prevent stains
- Replace broken caulk around sinks and tubs
3. Air and Ventilation
- Replace air filters every 3 months
- Clean air vents with a vacuum
- Open windows regularly for fresh air
- Check for drafty windows and fix seals
4. Exterior Maintenance
- Clean gutters twice a year
- Look for roof leaks after heavy rain
- Wash house exterior when dirty
- Fix any peeling outside paint
5. Regular System Checks
- Get heating/cooling checkup once a year
- Test smoke alarms monthly
- Service major appliances yearly
- Look for any water damage signs
Conclusion
Taking care of an old house needs time, effort, and careful planning. I shared these tips because I know how much work goes into keeping these homes standing tall. From basic cleaning to major fixes, each step matters in keeping your house safe and comfortable.
Why does this matter to you?
A well-maintained old house not only stays strong but also keeps its worth. Your home tells a story, and good care helps tell that story for years to come.
Begin with simple tasks like checking for water leaks or cleaning gutters.
Want more help?
Sign up for my monthly newsletter with extra tips on old house care, or leave a comment sharing your own home maintenance stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Renovating an Old House Worth It?
Yes, if you love its character and location. Old houses can gain value when fixed up well but expect higher costs and more time than modern homes.
What Should I Renovate First in An Old House?
Start with the basics: fix the roof, update electrical wiring, repair plumbing, and check the foundation. These keep your house safe and prevent bigger problems later.
How to Restore a 100-Year-Old Home?
First, get expert inspections of structure, wiring, and plumbing. Fix any safety issues. Then, update systems while keeping original features—work step by step to manage costs.
