Why Renovating Older Homes on Long Island Comes With Unique Challenges
Renovating an older home on Long Island can be incredibly rewarding. Towns like Sea Cliff, Roslyn, Glen Head, Brookville, and Manhasset are filled with homes that have charm, character, and architectural details you simply can’t reproduce in new builds.
But older homes also come with quirks and complexities that homeowners don’t always anticipate. From outdated wiring to structural surprises behind the walls, renovating a home built in the early-to-mid 20th century requires extra planning, careful inspections, and and a team that follows a clear renovation process.
This guide walks you through the biggest challenges you may encounter when renovating older homes in Nassau County—and how to prepare for a smooth, successful project.
Outdated Electrical & Plumbing Systems
Many older Long Island homes still contain:
- Knob-and-tube wiring
- Aluminum wiring or mixed wiring systems
- Undersized electrical panels
- Galvanized or copper plumbing at the end of its lifespan
- Insufficient amperage for modern appliances, HVAC, and lighting
What this means for your renovation
Electrical and plumbing upgrades are often unavoidable. These systems may:
- Not meet modern code
- Not support new kitchen appliances
- Pose safety risks
- Slow down or limit design decisions
Structural Surprises Behind the Walls
Once demolition begins, it’s common to find:
- Sagging or damaged joists
- Rotting sill plates
- Outdated load-bearing beams
- Framing that doesn’t meet current standards
- DIY renovations from previous owners
- Uneven subfloors
These issues are typical in Sea Cliff, Roslyn, and Brookville homes, especially those built 70–120 years ago.
Hidden Water Damage & Moisture Issues
Older homes often have aging roofs, worn masonry, or outdated waterproofing.
You may uncover:
- Mold behind drywall
- Water-damaged framing
- Failed window flashing
- Cracked foundations
- Deteriorating insulation
Moisture problems are especially common in coastal areas or homes with poor drainage.
Asbestos, Lead, and Other Hazardous Materials
Homes built before 1980 may contain:
- Asbestos (floor tiles, insulation, duct wrap, siding)
- Lead paint
- Vermiculite insulation
- Old adhesives or linoleum with regulated materials
Professional remediation may be required prior to demolition or construction.
Permit Complexities in Nassau County
Each village on the North Shore operates independently, with unique:
- Permit requirements
- Inspection procedures
- Zoning rules
- Setback restrictions
- Historic district regulations (especially Sea Cliff + Roslyn)
This can extend timelines and requires careful planning during pre-construction.
Difficulty Matching Historic Materials
Older homes often include:
- Plaster walls
- Custom millwork
- Non-standard lumber dimensions
- Original flooring widths
- Unique window or door sizes
Replicating these details requires experience and attention to detail.
Budget Surprises During Demolition
Older homes frequently reveal unexpected issues once walls are opened.
Common hidden costs include:
- Mold remediation
- Structural reinforcement
- Plumbing or electrical replacement
- Subfloor leveling
- Foundation repairs
- Insulation upgrades
A 10–20% contingency is standard for homes built before 1970.
Key Steps in Renovating an Older Long Island Home
- Pre-Construction Evaluation
A thorough assessment of structure, mechanical systems, roofing, foundation, and potential risk areas. - Architectural Plans & Engineering
Older homes often require updated structural calculations and engineered drawings. - Permit Applications
Each village (Sea Cliff, Roslyn, Glen Head, Brookville, Manhasset) has unique requirements and timelines. - Demolition & Discovery Phase
Hidden issues are revealed and addressed to bring the home up to current standards. - Framing & Mechanical Upgrades
Electrical, plumbing, insulation, ventilation, and reinforcement are completed. - Finishes & Final Approvals
Cabinets, flooring, tile, paint, fixtures, and final inspections.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Should Avoid
Mistake #1 — Underestimating the Scope
Older homes almost always need more than cosmetic changes.
Mistake #2 — Skipping the Pre-Construction Process
This is where potential issues are identified and planned for.
Mistake #3 — Choosing the Lowest Bid
Low bids often exclude necessary structural or mechanical upgrades.
Mistake #4 — Not Having a Contingency Budget
Older-home renovations should include a 10–20% buffer.
Mistake #5 — Hiring a Contractor Without Older-Home Experience
These homes require specialized knowledge.
Local Examples From the Saros Team
Sea Cliff
A 1900s home had knob-and-tube wiring hidden inside plaster walls. Once discovered, we upgraded the entire electrical system without derailing the project timeline.
Roslyn
A mid-century addition revealed undersized joists during demolition. Structural reinforcement was required to ensure long-term safety and stability.
Brookville
We recently addressed widespread moisture damage in a basement that required sill-plate replacement and foundation repairs—a common issue in older Nassau County homes.
When to Hire a Contractor for an Older-Home Renovation
You should bring in a contractor early if:
- The home was built before 1970
- You’re considering removing walls or changing the layout
- You suspect outdated electrical or plumbing
- You notice moisture damage, sagging floors, or uneven ceilings
- You’re renovating in a historic district
- You’re planning a major kitchen, bathroom, or basement renovation
What This Means for Your Renovation Journey
Renovating an older home on Long Island comes with unique challenges—but with the right planning and team, it’s an opportunity to modernize and preserve a home with incredible history and character. If you’re renovating in Sea Cliff, Roslyn, Glen Head, Brookville, Manhasset, or anywhere in Nassau County, Saros Construction & Consulting can guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to start planning your renovation?
Click here to contact Saros Construction & Consulting today!
