There is a unique charm to the historic homes of North Louisiana. From the Victorian farmhouses in Saline to the classic cottages scattered across Bienville Parish, these homes tell a story of our region’s history.
But for a homebuyer, falling in love with a vintage property can be risky. “They don’t build them like they used to” is true—but sometimes, that’s a bad thing. Building codes were non-existent 80 or 100 years ago, and materials that were standard then are now known safety hazards.
At Fontenot Home Inspection, we specialize in historic properties. Here are the four biggest “red flags” we look for when inspecting older Louisiana homes.
1. Outdated Electrical Wiring
The biggest deal-breaker in historic homes is often the wiring. Modern families use far more electricity than families in the 1920s or 50s. We specifically check for:
- Knob-and-Tube Wiring: Common in homes built before 1950. It lacks a ground wire and the insulation can become brittle and dangerous over time.
- Aluminum Wiring: Used in the mid-60s to mid-70s. It poses a fire risk if not properly connected to modern fixtures.
- Ungrounded Outlets: Two-prong outlets that cannot safely handle modern appliances like computers or refrigerators.
2. The “Pier and Beam” Foundation
Unlike modern slab foundations, many historic Louisiana homes are raised on piers. While this is great for airflow and flood protection, it comes with its own set of problems:
- Settling: Over decades, piers can sink into the soft Louisiana soil, causing sloping floors and sticking doors.
- Rot & Termites: We check the wooden sills and joists under the house for water damage and insect activity, which are common in our humid climate.
- Masonry Failure: The brick or stone piers themselves can crack or crumble over time.
3. Galvanized Plumbing
If the home still has its original plumbing, it is likely galvanized steel. These pipes rust from the inside out. This restricts water pressure (like a clogged artery) and eventually leads to leaks. We help you determine if the home has been re-piped or if you are looking at an expensive plumbing overhaul in the near future.
4. Hazardous Materials
We don’t want to scare you, but we do want you to be safe. Older homes often contain materials that we now know are harmful:
- Lead-Based Paint: Likely present in homes built before 1978. It is usually safe if undisturbed, but dangerous if chipping or peeling.
- Asbestos: Often found in old floor tiles, pipe insulation, or siding.
Buying Old Doesn’t Mean Buying Trouble
Owning a historic home is a rewarding experience, but you need to go in with your eyes open. A “standard” inspection might miss the nuances of a 100-year-old structure.
We don’t just identify defects; we explain them. We help you understand which issues are immediate safety hazards and which are simply part of the character of an old house.
Preserve the Past, Protect Your Future
If you are looking at a historic property in Saline or the surrounding area, you need an inspector who respects the architecture and understands the risks.
Contact Fontenot Home Inspection
📍 Historic Home Specialists in North Louisiana
📞 +1 318-436-4662
🌐 Schedule Your Historic Home Inspection