Author: Andrew Wells
September 29, 2025
Working on old houses is challenging. How do you know what is inside the walls? Even the most experienced builder/remodeler will tell you that there is always something new to learn. Applying basic skills and standards while discovering what is inside the walls will ensure an optimal outcome. The principles of any craftsman are level, plumb, square, and true. However, in some instances, this is insufficient. In addition, specific design knowledge is required to lay the correct “foundation” for the repair or remodel. In a perfect world, the best method is an exploratory demo or surgery of the existing structure to expose all hidden elements. This is not always viable. People living in their homes, especially with children and pets, may be unable to live in exposed parts of their home for long periods. Temporary measures can always be taken to provide livable space during the exploratory phase, but this will significantly increase the cost and may not fit the budget. A good remodeler will know that you need to be familiar with the original construction methods for the home you are working on. This allows for proper replication, repair, or remodeling. New or different methods may not always mix or fit with older methods.