If you live in period home the chances are you will have had to complete maintenance work on your property, due to its age, and the need to increase its energy efficiency.
Homeowners, who are lucky enough to live in Victorian property, may have to refurbish and repair several aspects of their home if they are to keep the building in the manner in which it was intended. Here are details of some common maintenance problems that owners of a Victorian home may face, and how to address them.
Timber Doors
If your timber Victorian doors have seen better days you may want to consider replacing them with doors that are created in the same style and will fit in neatly with the existing character of your home. There are a number of specialist companies that offer this service.
If any of the components of your Victorian door are worn down, or no longer working efficiently, you can often find original replacements for letterboxes, door knobs and latches at a specialist.
Plasterwork
Plaster ceiling roses and cornices are among some of the most charming features of Victorian homes, but may become damaged over time. If you want to replace damaged plasterwork, specialist Victorian plastering companies can provide matching mouldings.
If you need to add in a new ceiling rose, then ensure that this is aligned to the centre of your chimney breast.
If you need to remove mould and other surface stains from your plasterwork then you can gently dab a solution of one part bleach to 16 parts water to see if this will rectify the problem.
Timber Windows
If you need to replace, refurbish or repair your Victorian sash windows it is best to approach a sash window specialist. If you want to ensure that the heat is kept in, in your home you may want to consider measures such as secondary double glazing for sash windows or sash window draught proofing.
Flooring
Many Victorian homes will feature linoleum flooring, which, while hard wearing, may need to be maintained from time to time.
If you encounter any scratches or burns on your flooring, rub them away using a nylon brush in soft, circular motions. You may be able to remove simple scuff marks with a couple of drops of baby oil.
If your linoleum flooring is lacking lustre, after a quick clean, apply a linoleum wax solution, following the instructions for application carefully.