Common Problems in 1950s–1970s Louisiana Homes

(What to Expect Before You Remodel in South Louisiana)

Homes built in the 1950s–1970s are everywhere across South Louisiana.

They’re often in great locations, have solid bones, and can be beautiful remodel projects — but they also come with a set of “normal problems” that newer homes don’t.

If you’re planning a remodel on a 1950s–1970s home, this post will help you understand:

✅ what issues are common✅ what’s actually worth fixing✅ what catches homeowners off guard✅ how to plan without blowing the budget

Why These Homes Are So Common Here

In many parts of Acadiana and surrounding parishes, homes from this era were built during a big growth wave.

They tend to have:

• more real wood than modern homes

• stronger framing than some newer production builds

• simpler layouts that remodel well

• additions and renovations done over time

They can be excellent remodel candidates — if you plan properly.

The Most Common Problems We See in 1950s–1970s Louisiana Homes

1. Moisture and Humidity Issues

This is the big one in South Louisiana.

Common signs:

• musty smells

• recurring mold in bathrooms

• damp-feeling rooms

• peeling paint

• swollen doors

• cupping floors

Common causes:

• crawl space moisture (raised homes)

• older windows and poor sealing

• poor insulation strategies by modern standards

• HVAC not dehumidifying correctly

✅ A remodel that ignores moisture control often fails early.

2. Older Plumbing (And “Patchwork” Repairs)

Plumbing from that era may have been:

• replaced partially

• patched by multiple owners

• repaired with different materials over time

Common homeowner surprises:

• slow leaks under tubs or sinks

• drain issues

• low water pressure

• old shutoff valves that don’t shut off

• hidden repairs in walls

✅ If you remodel a kitchen or bathroom, plumbing inspection is smart upfront.

3. Older Electrical Systems

Many homes in this era were built before modern electrical demands.

Common issues:

• not enough circuits

• older panels

• outlets not where you want them

• questionable DIY wiring from past owners

• lack of GFCI protection (bathrooms/kitchens)

✅ If walls are being opened during remodel, it’s often the best time to upgrade.

4. Subfloor and Floor Framing Issues (Raised Homes Especially)

A lot of these homes have:

• older subfloors

• loose nails/squeaks

• soft spots

• bouncy floor areas

Sometimes it’s age.Sometimes it’s moisture exposure.Sometimes it’s termite history.

✅ If you’re putting in new flooring, it’s smart to make sure the structure is solid first.

5. Termite Exposure

South Louisiana is termite country, and homes from this era have had decades of exposure.

Signs can include:

• wood that sounds hollow

• soft trim

• sagging areas

• repaired sections you didn’t notice at first

✅ Termite damage doesn’t always mean “major disaster,” but it can affect remodel scope.

6. Old Windows and Rot Around Openings

Many homes from this era still have older windows or poorly updated ones.

Common problems:

• wood rot around windows

• air leaks and drafts

• water intrusion at trim

• condensation issues

✅ If you see paint peeling around windows, it may be telling you there’s moisture getting in.

7. Insulation That Doesn’t Match Louisiana Reality

Many older Louisiana homes have:

• little insulation

• inconsistent insulation

• insulation installed incorrectly in the past

• air leaks from attic/crawl space into living areas

This can lead to:

• high power bills

• uncomfortable rooms

• humidity problems

• AC running constantly

✅ Air sealing + smart insulation is often a better upgrade than people expect.

8. Bathrooms That Weren’t Built for Today’s Moisture

Bathrooms in this era weren’t designed for modern living.

Common issues:

• weak ventilation

• small layouts

• moisture trapped behind old walls

• old tub/shower systems with hidden damage

✅ Louisiana bathrooms need moisture management, not just tile upgrades.

9. Additions Built at Different Times

Many 1950s–1970s homes have additions.

These can create:

• uneven floors where structures meet

• weird rooflines that leak

• walls that aren’t square

• mixed framing styles

• HVAC balance problems

✅ Remodel planning should include the “whole house,” not just the room being changed.

10. Outdated Layouts (But Great Remodel Potential)

Many homes of this era have:

• chopped-up kitchens

• smaller dining spaces

• limited pantry storage

• tight laundry rooms

• small bathrooms

The good news:These layouts often remodel beautifully into more open, functional spaces — especially with good carpentry and planning.

What’s Usually Worth Fixing First (In This Order)

If you want the smartest priority list before spending money on finishes:

1. ✅ Water intrusion (roof/windows/siding leaks)

2. ✅ Moisture and humidity behavior

3. ✅ Structural and floor integrity

4. ✅ Electrical safety and capacity

5. ✅ Plumbing reliability

6. ✅ Insulation + air sealing strategy

7. ✅ Then finishes (floors, trim, paint, tile, cabinets)

This order protects your budget and keeps your remodel from failing early.

What Homeowners Often Underestimate

🔥 The real cost isn’t the “pretty part”

It’s the hidden work that makes the pretty part last:

• moisture control

• framing corrections

• electrical updates

• plumbing reliability

• wall prep and detail work

When those are done right, the home feels brand new — and stays that way.

Are These Homes “Good” Homes to Remodel?

Absolutely.

Most 1950s–1970s Louisiana homes have a lot going for them:

• strong materials

• real wood framing

• great neighborhoods

• lots of potential

They just need:✅ the right plan✅ the right priorities✅ the right craftsmanship

Planning a Remodel on a 1950s–1970s Home?

At Cajun Conservation, we remodel older homes across South Louisiana and we know what to look for before the budget gets blown up.

Question for you:What year is your home, and is it raised (crawl space) or on a slab foundation?