10 Dated Home Features Worth Preserving

Just because something is no longer in vogue doesn’t always mean you should discard it. Some dated features in homes can provide a window into the past and can contribute to a home's character. They may not be useful anymore, but they may still have an ornamental charm and could contribute to the value of the home. Below are 10 examples of dated features that you should preserve in a home.

Fireplaces

Few of us heat our home using a fireplace anymore. However, original fireplaces can still be attractive features to cling onto. Even if you don’t use the fireplace, a future occupant might use it. Fireplace mantle pieces can also be great places for displaying ornaments - and, of course, Xmas stockings in December. 

Timber windows

If you’ve got old timber windows that are seriously damaged, then replacement window installation is worthwhile. Otherwise, don’t get rid of original timber window frames. These historical features are coveted and add a lot of value. Repaint them if you don’t like their natural wooden appearance, but don’t replace them. 

Stained glass

Stained glass windows aren’t just hand crafted, but often unique to each home. Some even contain dates as to when they were crafted. This makes them an essential part of a home’s character that should never be replaced. Read this guide to looking after stained glass.

Hardwood floors

Hardwood floors can last hundreds of years. Such historic floors are highly sought after by buyers. As a result, you should try to preserve any old hardwood floors. If your hardwood floors are scratched or stained, it may be possible to rejuvenate them by sanding them down and resealing them. Hardwood floors do require a lot of maintenance, but this maintenance is worthwhile for the value they bring. 

Phone niche

Got a small nook in the wall of your living room or hallway? If your home was built in the early 20th century, it could be a phone niche. These were for propping original telephones - they are a strange but charming feature that tells a story, and therefore are worth preserving.

Laundry chute

Despite their usefulness, laundry chutes are rarely built in new homes due to their ability to spread smoke to upper levels in a fire. However, there are measures you can take to make laundry chutes safe, plus they are a desired feature among some buyers, so you shouldn’t try to remove them.

Period wooden panels

Tacky 70s composite wood wall panels can go. However, if you’ve got century-old hand-carved timber wall panels, it is a crime to get rid of them. The same goes for any ornate hand-carved wooden details. If you don’t like the appearance of dark wood, it is better to paint it. 

Milk door

Some older homes were built with small compartments on the outside wall where milkmen could leave bottles of milk. These can typically be opened with a small door called a milk door. Few people get milk delivered anymore, but like phone niches, these quirky features can be worth preserving for the story they tell. 

Boot scraper

Wondering what that weird wrought iron thing is outside your front door? It could be a boot scraper. These were common features outside old rural homes for getting rid of mud from the bottom of boots. Like other forms of old wrought iron, they are artefacts you shouldn’t disturb.

Decorative molding

Finally, you should try to preserve decorative molding if you can. This is the white trim commonly found on the walls and ceilings of period homes. Crown molding and ceiling medallions can sometimes be uniquely designed and are therefore an important part of your home’s character. Only get rid of molding if it is damaged.