Baton Rouge Roofing: Caring For Older Homes

Editor's note: This post was originally published on December 3, 2015 and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.

To say that Baton Rouge has some history would be an understatement. From its key location on the Mississippi River, its Civil War lineage and rich cultural reputation, our south Louisiana city has plenty to offer. Battle sites and 5-star restaurants aside, many of us have a little piece of history we call home. Whether you reside in the Garden District near LSU, call Spanish Town home, or have a historical home outside of the city in Denham Springs, Zachary, Central or Saint Francisville, having a home pushing 50, 60 or more years is not uncommon. However the way you care for could take some extra effort.

Seasonal cleaning can definitely extend the life of your home, but plumbing, electrical, insulation, and other structural maintenance can be a little more intensive. Here are a few things to keep in mind for the health of your older home.

• Upgrade and replace insulation: For homes built in the 1950’s and 60’s, thinner insulation was used in walls, crawl spaces and attics. With soaring energy bills, upgrading this thin insulation can be a great way to save money. Either add a layer of insulation or replacing altogether with a thicker, more effective material can keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. It is also a good idea to check the foam strips around your doors and windows for the same reason.

• Check your roof: Your roof is the largest part of your home and protects everything inside. The average lifespan for a roof, depending on the material, is between 30 and 50 years. So if your home still has the original roof, it is very important to check it for any problem areas and decide if a repair would do the trick, or if a replacement is the best option.

• Upgrade your power supply: While your home may be old, your appliances and electronics likely aren’t. The original power supply wasn’t designed to run and sustain our modern amenities. In order to prevent a system overload and mitigate fire hazards, upgrade to at least a 240 amp capacity.

These are only a few ideas of how to keep your home in great shape. Of course these suggestions and others will vary based on the age and condition of your home, as well as any changes made by previous owners. When it comes to your roof, Cribbs Incorporated has been caring for Baton Rouge homes for over 50 years. Click here for more information on how Cribbs can meet your roofing needs.