Homeowners often feel like they have a never-ending list of things to do around the house. While preventative maintenance is essential, it is just as important to address small signs of big problems in your house. Here are some conditions that may not seem like a big deal, but could end up costing you a lot if they are ignored. Fortunately, by taking care of these issues quickly, you can usually avoid a much bigger expense.
Foundation Cracks Can Be Signs of Big Problems in Your House
Foundation cracks are common, so they seem minor. However, some foundation cracks point to more serious problems and some are just cosmetic. Tiny hairline cracks in the mortar typically don’t denote a foundation issue but should be sealed to keep water and insects out. Stair-step cracks, especially those that are wider than ¼ inch, and horizontal cracks are of bigger concern. They could signify structural damage, so get a professional to look at them soon.
Doors and Windows That Stick
Another situation that is annoying but may not seem severe is when your doors and windows stick. Windows may be hard to open, and doors may not latch properly when you shut them. This seemingly minor inconvenience could be a sign of a couple of serious problems. It could point to termite damage or an ongoing termite infestation. It could also be a sign of structural settling and foundation problems. Either way, it’s best to get to the bottom of it quickly before more serious issues arise.
Leaky Pipes Under Sinks
You may not reach into your under-sink cabinets very often, so you wouldn’t know if there was a leak. Leaky pipes have an easy fix, but if they are ignored for a long time, they turn into big mold problems. Mold grows in dark, wet areas so a moist cabinet is a perfect place for it to thrive. Once mold takes hold, it spreads and gets in the air. Your family could develop mold allergies and respiratory issues all because of a leaky pipe.
Small Signs of Big Problems in Your House Include Roof Leaks
A leaky roof is never a good sign. It can possibly be fixed with a localized repair, but it could also mean that the roof is failing. If there are multiple leaks in several different areas of the roof, the whole roof probably needs to be replaced. If roof leaks are not addressed promptly, water will damage the belongings inside the attic and materials like the roof boards, attic joists, and even your ceilings and walls. You may first notice a roof leak as a water stain on the ceiling. Try to catch them early by going up in your attic and looking for dark spots of wood and wet areas. Go up there in the daytime and see if sunlight is shining through the roof. If light can get in, then water can too.
You don’t have to panic if you find any of these signs, but you should take action. Ignoring even a seemingly minor problem can turn into a big headache down the road. Keep an eye out for these little signs that something isn’t right in your home.
Vital Home Inspections provides home inspection services in Southeastern Wisconsin. Contact us to schedule an appointment.