EP 89 | HISTORIC HOUSE SOS – A Case Study with Toner Kersting

In this episode:

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson and building performance expert Toner Kersting explore a recent project involving a 1920s bungalow renovation. This episode takes a deep dive into the challenges and complexities of restoring an older home, highlighting the importance of thorough inspections, proactive maintenance, and a collaborative approach between homeowners, builders, and specialists to ensure a successful outcome.

TOPICS COVERED:

• The Importance of Thorough Inspections: Discuss the limitations of traditional home inspections and the value of specialized forensic investigations to uncover hidden issues and potential problems in older homes, particularly those with crawl spaces or basements.
• Moisture Management: Emphasize the critical role of moisture management in preserving the integrity and longevity of older homes, highlighting the potential consequences of neglecting crawl spaces, basements, and other vulnerable areas.
• The Value of a Building Performance Specialist: Understand the expertise and insights that a building performance specialist like Toner Kersting can bring to a renovation project, helping homeowners and builders identify and address potential issues related to moisture, insulation, ventilation, and overall building performance.
• The Importance of Teamwork: Highlight the value of a collaborative approach between homeowners, builders, and specialists, working together to diagnose problems, develop solutions, and execute a successful renovation plan.
• The Case Study: Explore the details of a specific 1920s bungalow renovation project, including the discovery of a shower pan leak, extensive mold growth in the crawl space, and the challenges of restoring the original subfloor and framing.
• Crawl Space Remediation: Discuss the steps involved in remediating a crawl space with moisture and mold issues, emphasizing the importance of proper grading, drainage, insulation, and vapor barriers to prevent future problems.
• The Role of the Homeowner: Discuss the homeowner’s role in maintaining their home and preventing future issues, including monitoring for signs of moisture or damage, addressing leaks promptly, and ensuring proper ventilation and humidity control.
• The Importance of Communication: Underscore the value of open communication between homeowners, builders, and specialists throughout the renovation process, addressing concerns proactively and working together to find solutions.
• The Value of Experience: Acknowledge the role of experience in recognizing and addressing potential problems in older homes, and the importance of seeking expert advice when undertaking major renovations or repairs.
• The Benefits of Investing in Older Homes: Discuss the potential benefits of investing in older homes, including their historical charm, character, and potential for increased value with proper renovation and maintenance.

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GET IN TOUCH: 

Guests: Toner Kersting

Company: Toner Home Performance

Website: https://tonerhp.com/

Full Transcript