As a homeowner, it is necessary to be informed about the problems that you are likely to run into one day and have a plan for how to handle them. That way, you’ll more prepared to deal things like water damage or appliance breakdowns quickly if they should ever occur. What to prepare for specifically depends on where you live, what type of residence you own, and the climate in your local area. Still, there are some home repairs that are performed frequently no matter where you live. Keep reading for three of the most common issues with homes and what you can do to fix them.
1. Leaky Roof
If you suspect you may have a leak in your roof, don’t waste time. A quick search for “roofer near me” should give you some high quality options for roofers in your area. Water infiltration through the roof is an issue that most homeowners will experience at some point. There are three main issues that cause the majority of roof leaks: roofing material failures, flashing failures, and roof penetrations. Roofing material failures are the most common of the three. Roofing failures include shingle blow-offs, shingle granule loss, and roofing material cracking. Material failures are typically fixed by simply replacing the lost or damaged materials.
Flashing failures are another common cause of roof leaks. Flashing is the material used to seal the intersection between the roof and the wall, as well as the intersection between the roof and any other vertical surface, such as a chimney. To fix a flashing failure, you will need to replace the flashing material. In most cases, this will require removing the old flashing and installing new flashing. Roof penetrations can also result in damage to your roof. Roof penetrations are created when a roofing system is installed over an existing opening in the roof, such as a chimney or a vent. To fix a roof penetration failure, you will need to seal the opening in the roof.
2. HVAC System Breakdown
Is there anything worse than when the furnace wont kick on in the winter or gets stuck on when the temperature starts to climb? If your furnace isn’t working properly, you can start by checking the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to heat and that the fan is on. The next step is to check the furnace filters. If the filters are dirty, they can cause the furnace to overheat. Then you’ll need to check the furnace switches. Make sure the furnace and the switch are both turned on. If the furnace is on but isn’t producing heat, the problem may be the furnace pilot light. If the pilot light is out, you’ll need to relight it. Still having issues? It’s time to call an HVAC technician so they can diagnose and repair the problem for you before it gets worse.
Generally, HVAC professionals recommend changing the filters in your system at least once every three months, but preferably on a monthly basis. The entire system should be inspected biannually, especially if you live somewhere with extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The average lifespan of an HVAC system is between ten and fifteen years, so if your system is experiencing regular breakdowns and is over a decade old, it may be time to think about a replacement.
3. Damaged Windows
If you’re noticing cracks and crevices around your windows, it’s important to take action and repair them as soon as possible. Not only can the cracks let in cold air and pests, but they can also lead to water damage over time. There are a few different ways to fix window cracks, depending on their size and severity. If the crack is small and doesn’t go all the way through the window, you can usually fix it with a tube of caulk. If the crack is bigger or goes all the way through the window, you’ll need to replace the window. This can be a big job, but it’s worth it to have a properly functioning window that will keep your home warm and protected from the elements.
By knowing how to take care of your home and address any issues that may arise, you can ensure that your property is in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road. If you don’t have training or experience, you shouldn’t start trying to fix any of your appliances or home systems on your own. You could end up causing structural damage or even hurting yourself. The best way to handle unexpected damage or a breakdown is to get on the phone to a trustworthy professional who can take care of it for you safely and efficiently.
