Home repairs can be expensive and time-consuming. However, with a little bit of vigilance and foresight, you can avoid some of the most costly repairs and save yourself plenty of money and stress.
By being proactive, you can protect your home and finances, keeping them in good condition for years to come. Here are 7 of the most expensive home repairs that can be prevented through regular maintenance and quick action:
- Rewiring the electrical system
An outdated electrical system in an older home can lead to fires and accidents. In some cases, only partial upgrades are needed to ensure safety. However, homes with knob and tube or aluminum wiring, which are both fire hazards, may require full rewiring, which can be expensive.
To minimize the risk of fire, it is important to have an electrician cover the water heater lines and install ground fault circuit interrupter outlets in areas where there may be water exposure. A more thorough electrical inspection can help identify other areas of concern.
- Replacing the roof and siding
Homeowners, especially those living in areas with harsh weather conditions like sun, wind, and rain, are often caught off guard when an inspection shows the need for a new roof.
Intense sunlight and a lack of maintenance can cause early damage to the roof. However, the installation of a new roof and siding can be a positive change, as it adds value to the home.
To avoid expensive roof and siding replacement, it is important to regularly monitor cracks in roof boots and flanges. If cracks are found, then you must contact a roof and siding contractor to get the cracks fixed soon before they are decayed.
- Foundation is settling
The foundation of a house supports the entire structure so it must remain in good condition. Damage to the foundation can lead to structural issues such as jammed doors or uneven floors.
One of the most common problems with foundations is settling or sinking, which can occur due to gradual shifts in soil moisture levels or drastic changes, such as soil contraction during a drought, which leads to cracking.
A house built during the rainy season, when the soil is damp and swollen, may experience settling and damage to the foundation when the soil retracts during a drought due to improper preparation of soil at the time of construction.
Early detection and repair of foundation problems are crucial to prevent them from becoming more expensive. Signs of foundation issues include cracks in brick or block foundations. If the cracks are small and in a straight line, it could indicate settling.
To diagnose the problem, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional. They will fill the cracks with a mixture and implement drainage solutions to prevent changes in moisture levels, which ensure the longevity of the foundation. For repairing structures in tight spaces, you should contact a confined space onsite rescue team for safety.
- Termite damage
If not carefully constructed, termites can easily attack the wooden structures of the home. To prevent costly termite damage, it’s important to keep wooden parts of your home separated from the ground.
This can be done using special layers and by keeping mulch away from the foundation. If signs of termite activity are detected early, it can save homeowners significant costs in mitigating the damage.
- Water damage
Water damage in a home can cause significant destruction to the belongings, walls, ceiling, and flooring. If you notice any signs of foundation issues, such as visible cracks in walls or floors, doors and windows that stick or don’t close properly, or uneven and sloping floors, it is important to address them promptly. Foundation issues can lead to significant structural damage if left unattended. Seeking professional help is crucial in evaluating the severity of the problem and implementing the appropriate repairs. Moisture in the wrong places can lead to mould growth. Water intrusion can happen due to various reasons like broken fixtures, rotted siding, burst pipes, sewage backup, roof leaks, and clogged gutters.
Although water damage is a common issue in homes, measures can be taken to protect the house from water intrusion. To prevent water damage in your home, implement a multi-step strategy, including proper maintenance of drains, installation of a sump pump, and prompt repair of any damaged siding. You may contact the nearest Leaside plumber to do all these for you.
- Mould damage
Mould growth can cause significant damage to your home and affect your health if left uncontrolled. Although moulds in small numbers are generally harmless, they can reproduce rapidly in warm and damp environments.
Cleaning mould with a bleach solution or other gentler methods will only remove the visible growth, but not the spores. For larger mould problems, it’s best to call a professional remediation service. Additionally, monitoring your home’s humidity levels and improving ventilation can help prevent future mould growth.
- HVAC failure
An HVAC system is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year. With proper maintenance, an HVAC can last for up to 15 years, but if not taken care of, it can break down sooner and become a costly repair or replacement.
Yearly maintenance from the nearest HVAC Winnipeg professionals can help detect issues early, and replacing the air filter every few months can prevent excessive wear and tear.
As a homeowner, avoiding costly home repairs is a priority. However, it’s not always possible to prevent all issues from occurring. It’s important to be aware of warning signs that a major home system requires repair and to have a network of trusted professionals available for assistance. It’s also advisable to not use all of your emergency savings for home repairs, in case a different unexpected situation arises.
