What People Wish They Knew About Material Selection for Older Homes

What People Wish They Knew About Material Selection for Older Homes

Renovating an older home in Auckland comes with a unique set of challenges, and one of the biggest is choosing the right materials. Whether you own a villa, a bungalow, or a mid-century gem, every choice you make has an impact on the look, performance, and longevity of your renovation. Many homeowners only discover the complexity of this step once the project is already underway — and by then, changing course can be costly.

At W O Flatz Construction Ltd, we have been working with character homes since 1993. Here’s what we think every homeowner should understand before choosing materials for an older property.

1. Not all materials are created equal

While it can be tempting to choose materials based solely on price or appearance, performance and durability are critical, especially in Auckland’s changing climate. Cheaper options might save you now but often need replacing sooner, costing more over time.

Tip: Invest in high-quality exterior cladding, roofing, and joinery to protect your home for decades.

2. Heritage considerations can limit your choices

If your home is in a heritage zone or has character protection, certain materials or profiles may be required to maintain its authenticity. This can affect everything from window frames to roofing materials.

Tip: Check Auckland Council’s heritage guidelines early so your design and material choices align with requirements.

3. Matching existing finishes can be tricky

For partial renovations or extensions, matching new materials to the existing home can be a challenge. Even paint colours can shift over time due to weathering, making an exact match difficult.

Tip: Work with suppliers who can custom-match finishes and be prepared for slight variation to maintain a natural, lived-in look.

4. Moisture resistance is essential

Older homes in Auckland can be prone to moisture issues. Choosing materials that help manage moisture will protect the structure and improve comfort inside the home.

Tip: Opt for treated timber, proper flashing systems, and breathable wall wraps to keep water out and allow ventilation.

5. Supply times can affect your build

Specialised heritage materials or imported finishes can have long lead times. If they arrive late, they can hold up the entire project.

Tip: Order materials well ahead of when they’re needed, and have a backup option approved in case of delays.

6. Some modern materials outperform traditional ones

While heritage style is important, modern manufacturing offers improved durability and energy efficiency. For example, aluminium joinery with a timber overlay can give you the traditional look with less maintenance.

Tip: Be open to hybrid solutions that combine modern performance with classic style.

Getting materials right the first time

Choosing the right materials for an older home is about more than looks — it’s about performance, compliance, and long-term value. With the right advice and careful planning, you can preserve the charm of your home while giving it the durability to last for decades.

If you are planning a renovation in Auckland, we’d love to help you choose materials that work beautifully and stand the test of time.