Homeowners: Here are 12 Important Repairs You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix

Homeowners face many repair issues as they continue to live in their homes for long periods. Sometimes, due to lack of time and resources, their repair list keeps growing as they push them for later dates. As issues arise, there is a challenge of deciding which ones to fix right away and those that can wait. The decision to act fast depends on the severity of the problem, safety concerns, and the likelihood that a postponement would result in additional damage. Here are some of the important repairs you shouldn’t wait to fix.

Roof leaks

Your roof provides the first protection against harsh weather and other environmental elements like dust. Keeping your roof in good condition should therefore be a priority for you to live comfortably. If you find that your roof is leaking, it’s probably a structural problem resulting from missing slates or damaged shingles. Neglecting a roof leak can cause more damaging and expensive problems like mold growth, water damage, and potential roof replacement. If you can’t fix a roof leak, call in the Roofers to make repairs as soon as possible.

Mold and Mildew

Many homeowners dismiss mold and mildew as a sign of poor housekeeping, but these substances can grow in unexpected places at any time. Mold and mildew are toxic and can cause serious health hazards to you and your family. When you spot them growing anywhere in your home, whether it’s in the attic or basement, have them removed by a professional as soon as possible. Look out for signs like bubbled paint areas, stale and musty air, and chronic sinuses.

Electrical problems

Yearly, approximately 45,000 homes suffer losses of property and human life due to faulty electrical systems. Even though your home is new and has undergone inspection from a professional electrician, it is never immune from electrical hazards. Sometimes, if you have loose electrical outlets, they can move and loosen connected wires creating a dangerous arcing.

Also, an electrical overload can create a short circuit resulting in fires, electric shock, or damage to appliances. Watch out for signs such as breakers or fuses that blow frequently, flickering lights, and warm switches or electrical outlets. If you notice any of these, call in an electrician immediately.

Plumbing issues

Homeowners are in most cases guilty of ignoring leaking faucets hoping that soon they will stop. However, in the effort to avoid expensive plumbing bills, leaking taps can be a nightmare. As much as you may try to fix a leak yourself, plumbing issues require a professional because you may be dealing with a bigger problem that isn’t noticeable at the time. Leaking pipes can be life-threatening as well as financially draining when left unattended. What starts as an irritating leak can turn into a flood fast.

Foundation cracks

If you notice small hairline cracks or gapping and pitting on your walls, the problem is most likely your foundation, and you should call someone to repair them fast. Damaged foundations also result from a lack of proper water funneling that creates small pools around them. Small foundation cracks result from poor concrete settling or curing and can be fixed easily with an epoxy sealant. However, for wide foundation cracks that exceed 3/16 of an inch, call in a professional to repair them right away.

Loose railings

Railings are a modern way to increase your home’s aesthetic beauty and provide safety. However, when staircase or deck railings become loose, they become a danger to you and your loved ones. Wobbly railings result from shaky bottom posts, improper fixtures, and poor maintenance. Make prompt repairs when your rails become loose to prevent severe injuries and falls, especially if you have children who like to play around them. If you plan on conducting DIY repairs, ensure you use the standard measurements.

Weak decks

Decks provide an outdoor space to relax, enjoy the sunshine, and beautify your home with some greenery. While a well-built deck could last for years, with time, it grows weaker when exposed to weather elements like the rain and frequent walking on it. Your deck could be unsafe if it moves when you walk on it, has missing fasteners, or is rotting. A weak deck is a potential health hazard to you and your family as it can cave in at any moment when you walk on it, causing severe injuries or death. If you’re going to fill your deck with guests, especially, have it fixed or rebuilt.

Loose bricks

Loose bricks on a wall, roof, and chimney are hazardous and ultimately lead to aggravated problems. They can cause the wall to fall, or the bricks themselves can fall and injure or kill people. Instead of waiting for your wall to collapse or have a leaking roof, have them repaired. This way, you protect your home and avoid spending a lot of savings to make replacements.

Broken carbon monoxide and smoke alarms

Home fires kill and injure over 20,000 people annually. After fireproofing your home,  test smoke alarms regularly for enhanced safety. If you’ve had your smoke alarm for too long and suspect it could be broken, visit the nearest fire station for a repair or replacement. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and kills over 500 people yearly. If you have a chimney, test your carbon monoxide alarm regularly to prevent inhalation.

Pest and rodent damage

Pests are not only creepy and uncomfortable to live with but also cause tremendous damage to your home. Termites, for example, can eat through your walls, ceiling, and wooden furniture. If you notice signs of pests and rodents, such as termite tunnels, piles of wings, or waste, don’t hesitate to call an exterminator. Leaving rodents to roam around your home can cause life-threatening hazards when they chew on electrical wires or infect you with diseases.

Air leaks

Air leaks are a common occurrence in many homes and can be uncomfortable. Also, they add onto the utility bills as a lot of air conditioning and heating is wasted. Air leaks result from improper sealing of windows and doors and cracks in the walls. If you feel cold air flowing into your home when doors and windows are shut, and there’s heating, you could be experiencing air leak issues. Have them repaired fast to maintain your comfort during hot or cold weather and keep your utility bills at a minimum.

Dirty chimneys

Over time, creosote and soot build up in chimneys, and if you’re not keen, you might miss it even if you look through. Although home chimneys provide warmth, especially during the cold season, they pose many risks for your health and home when they get dirty. Some of the risks associated with dirty chimneys include:

• Respiratory problems: A dirty chimney puts you and your loved ones at risk of inhaling creosote that can cause issues like asthma and lung damage or irritation.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Dirty chimneys prevent proper combustion that causes carbon monoxide that is poisonous when inhaled.
• Fire risks: Fires are among the most severe risks when you have a dirty chimney. Creosote buildup ignites under high temperature and burns extremely hot, causing a fire.
• Back puffing: A chimney’s airflow changes when there is an obstruction with combustion materials or dirt. When the smoke is unable to travel through the top, it escapes from the bottom, causing a back puff.

Important Repairs : Bottom line

Home repairs are frequent and can be annoying, but they are essential for safety. While you can postpone some, others need urgent attention. To make your repairs less painful, have an emergency fund in place. Call in professionals for serious issues such as electrical overloads, roof leaks, and pest extermination. Repair your deck and loose railings, not only to increase curb appeal but also safety.