What we find behind the walls, by era
In pre-war homes near the Square: knob-and-tube remnants, balloon framing with no fire blocking, galvanized supply lines closing up with corrosion, and plaster over wood lath that will not tolerate a careless demo crew. Budget $8,000 to $25,000 for correction work on a whole-floor renovation of a house this age.
In 1970s and 1980s East Cobb homes: aluminum branch wiring in some builds, cast-iron drain stacks at the end of their life, popcorn ceilings that may need testing before removal, and undersized returns that make the HVAC fight the house.
- Pre-war: plaster and lath, galvanized supply, no fire blocking
- 1950s–60s: shallow footings, undersized panels, single-pane windows
- 1970s–80s: cast-iron stacks, popcorn ceilings, aluminum branch wiring
Renovation pricing in Marietta
Kitchens in older Marietta homes run $35,000 to $85,000 — higher than the metro average because layouts almost always change and the mechanicals behind them need work. Primary bath suites are $28,000 to $55,000. Refinishing original hardwood is $4 to $8 per square foot and is nearly always worth doing before it is replaced.
Whole-floor renovations near the Square commonly land between $120,000 and $250,000 once electrical, plumbing and plaster repair are included honestly in the scope.
Historic district review
Properties inside Marietta's historic districts carry extra review on anything visible from the street: windows, siding, porches, roof material and exterior color. Interior work is generally unrestricted.
We will tell you before you spend money on design what is and is not approvable. Homeowners lose far more to a rejected window package than to any surprise inside a wall.
Frequently asked.
How much does it cost to renovate an older home in Marietta, GA?
Kitchens run $35,000–$85,000 and primary baths $28,000–$55,000. Whole-floor renovations near the Square commonly total $120,000–$250,000 with mechanical correction included.
Can I replace windows on a historic Marietta home?
Sometimes, but material and profile must meet historic district review. We confirm what is approvable before you order anything.
Is original hardwood worth refinishing?
Almost always. Refinishing runs $4–$8 per square foot versus $10–$18 for quality replacement, and original heart pine or oak cannot be bought back later.
Kitchen & Bath Refreshes
Custom kitchen remodeling in Dallas, GA and North Georgia. Cabinets, quartz counters, tile, lighting and layout changes. 34 years experience. Free estimate.
Bathroom Remodeling
Luxury bathroom remodeling in Dallas, GA — walk-in tile showers, freestanding tubs, double vanities and heated floors. Licensed & insured. Free estimate.
Flooring Installation
Flooring installation in Dallas, GA — luxury vinyl plank, tile, and hardwood. Proper subfloor prep and leveling. Free in-home measure and estimate.
Interior & Exterior Painting
Interior and exterior house painting in Dallas, GA. Real prep — wash, scrape, caulk, prime — then premium coatings. Licensed & insured. Free quote.
Every price above is a range because your house is not a spreadsheet. We give free, written, line-item estimates in Marietta and across North Georgia — about 35 minutes from our dallas shop.

