Key Takeaways

• Structural and water issues should always be addressed before cosmetic renovations.
• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC upgrades are often necessary in older Havertown homes.
• Kitchen and bathroom remodels typically provide the greatest lifestyle improvements.
• Finishing a basement can add valuable living space without building an addition.
• Preserving original architectural details helps maintain character and value.
• Working with an experienced local contractor can help avoid costly renovation mistakes.

Many of the homes throughout Havertown, PA were built between the 1920s and 1960s. Neighborhoods such as Brookline, Llanerch, Chatham Park, and sections of Haverford Township are known for their charming stone Colonials, brick twins, Cape Cods, and classic Craftsman-style homes. While these houses offer character that newer construction often lacks, they can also come with outdated layouts, aging systems, and hidden maintenance issues. Havertown’s rich history dates back to the late 1600s, and many homes throughout the area have been expanded and updated multiple times over the decades.

If you’ve recently purchased an older home or have lived in one for years, you may be wondering where to begin. Should you remodel the kitchen first? Replace old windows? Finish the basement? Address structural concerns?

As a trusted remodeling contractor serving Havertown and Delaware County since 1999, Cumming Construction has helped countless homeowners modernize older homes while preserving the character that makes them special.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most important renovations to prioritize when updating an older home in Havertown.

1. Address Structural and Water Issues First

Before selecting cabinets, flooring, or paint colors, it’s important to ensure your home is structurally sound.

Many older homes in Havertown experience:

• Foundation settling
• Water intrusion in basements
• Aging masonry
• Drainage problems
• Deteriorating support beams
• Moisture-related damage

Water is often the biggest threat to an older home. Even minor leaks can lead to mold, wood rot, and costly repairs over time.

Signs you should address structural concerns first include:

• Cracks in foundation walls
• Uneven floors
• Sticking doors or windows
• Musty basement odors
• Water seepage after heavy rain

Resolving these issues early protects every future renovation investment and prevents larger expenses down the road.

2. Upgrade Electrical Systems

Many Havertown homes were built before modern electrical demands existed.

Years ago, homeowners weren’t running:

• Multiple televisions
• Home offices
• EV chargers
• Smart home devices
• High-powered kitchen appliances

Older electrical systems may include:

• Outdated service panels
• Insufficient amperage
• Ungrounded outlets
• Aging wiring

If your lights flicker, breakers frequently trip, or your home still has older wiring, an electrical upgrade should be near the top of your renovation list.

Modernizing electrical infrastructure improves safety, functionality, and home value.

3. Improve Energy Efficiency

Older homes are often beautiful but inefficient.

Common issues include:

• Drafty windows
• Poor insulation
• Air leaks
• Outdated HVAC systems

Many homeowners are surprised by how much money they can save by addressing energy loss before undertaking cosmetic renovations.

Popular energy-efficiency upgrades include:

• Replacement windows
• Additional attic insulation
• Weather sealing
• Exterior door replacement
• HVAC upgrades

These improvements can make your home more comfortable year-round while reducing monthly utility bills.

4. Renovate the Kitchen

For many Havertown homeowners, the kitchen is the first major renovation worth investing in.

Many kitchens in older Delaware County homes were designed for a different era and often feature:

• Closed-off layouts
• Limited counter space
• Small cabinetry
• Poor lighting
• Outdated appliances

Today’s homeowners typically want:

• Open-concept living
• Larger islands
• Better storage
• Improved functionality
• Space for entertaining

In many older homes, removing non-load-bearing walls can dramatically improve flow between the kitchen, dining room, and family room.

Kitchen remodeling remains one of the most impactful projects for improving both daily living and resale value.

5. Update Bathrooms

Bathrooms in older homes tend to be small and lack modern conveniences.

Common challenges include:

• Limited storage
• Outdated tile
• Poor ventilation
• Aging plumbing
• Small showers and tubs

Bathroom renovations can significantly improve comfort while modernizing the home.

Popular upgrades include:

• Walk-in showers
• Double vanities
• Heated flooring
• New tile
• Improved lighting
• Water-efficient fixtures

Even a modest bathroom renovation can make an older home feel substantially more modern.

6. Reconfigure Living Spaces

Many older Havertown homes were built with compartmentalized floor plans.

While these layouts worked well decades ago, modern families often prefer more open and flexible living spaces.

Popular renovations include:

• Removing interior walls
• Creating open-concept kitchens
• Enlarging family rooms
• Adding mudrooms
• Converting unused rooms into home offices

With remote and hybrid work becoming common, many homeowners are finding creative ways to make older floor plans better suit today’s lifestyles.

7. Finish the Basement

Basements in older Delaware County homes often represent untapped living space.

A professionally finished basement can become:

• A family room
• Home gym
• Children’s playroom
• Guest suite
• Home office
• Entertainment area

Before finishing a basement, it’s critical to address any water intrusion issues first.

Once properly waterproofed, a finished basement can add significant usable square footage without the cost of a home addition.

8. Preserve Historic Character While Modernizing

One mistake homeowners sometimes make is removing all of the original features that give older homes their charm.

Some elements worth preserving include:

• Original hardwood floors
• Stone exteriors
• Custom millwork
• Built-in cabinetry
• Historic trim details
• Original staircases

The best renovations strike a balance between modernization and preservation.

At Cumming Construction, we specialize in helping homeowners update functionality while maintaining the character and authenticity of older homes throughout Havertown, Delaware County, and the Main Line.

Why Hire a Local Havertown Remodeling Contractor?

Older homes require specialized knowledge.

A contractor familiar with Havertown’s housing stock understands:

• Common construction methods used in older homes
• Typical structural challenges
• Permit requirements
• Historic preservation considerations
• How to blend new materials with original architecture

Working with a local remodeling contractor can help avoid costly surprises and ensure your renovation is completed correctly.

Ready to Renovate Your Older Havertown Home?

Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, basement finishing project, or whole-home transformation, starting with the right priorities can save time, money, and frustration.

Cumming Construction has been helping homeowners throughout Havertown, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and the Main Line modernize older homes since 1999. Our team understands how to preserve character while creating spaces that work for today’s families.

Contact Cumming Construction today to discuss your renovation goals and schedule a consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing I should renovate in an older home?

Structural repairs, water intrusion issues, and outdated electrical systems should be addressed before cosmetic upgrades.

Are older homes in Havertown worth renovating?

Yes. Many older Havertown homes offer strong construction, desirable neighborhoods, and architectural character that can be enhanced through thoughtful renovations.

Should I remodel my kitchen or bathroom first?

Most homeowners choose the kitchen first because it impacts daily living and often provides a strong return on investment. However, severely outdated bathrooms may warrant priority.

How much does it cost to renovate an older home in Havertown?

Costs vary based on the home’s age, condition, and project scope. A professional consultation can help establish a realistic budget and renovation plan.

Can you remove walls in older homes?

In many cases, yes. However, some walls may be load-bearing and require structural modifications. A qualified remodeling contractor can evaluate the possibilities.

Do older homes in Delaware County require permits for renovations?

Most significant remodeling projects, including structural changes, additions, electrical work, and plumbing updates, require permits through the local municipality.

How can I modernize an older home without losing its charm?

Focus on preserving original features such as hardwood flooring, trim work, built-ins, and exterior architecture while updating layouts, systems, and finishes.

Why choose Cumming Construction for older home renovations?

Cumming Construction has been serving homeowners throughout Havertown, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia since 1999, specializing in renovations that improve functionality while maintaining a home’s original character.