Inspecting Your New Home For Water Damage
Jan 29th, 2009 by admin
By Aydan Corkern
If you are a new homeowner or are buying a previously owned home, it should be kept in mind that one of the most often overlooked details of a house is whether or not there is preexisting water damage, and how susceptible your house is to it. Here are some tips that may save you money, time, and energy on the task.
It is important to inspect all plumbing in the home before finalizing the purchase and moving in. Bathrooms and kitchens should have special attention paid to them, since these are the two main rooms where water will be present. If you have any pipes that leak, you should mend them as soon as possible, as these are a hotbed for mold and mildew growth that can make your home unsanitary. Mold can cause serious health problems if it is allowed to grow in your home. It’’s also a good idea to make sure all of the windows in your home are fully closed when it rains outside or if it is cold. You should also replace the caulk in your windows whenever necessary, as this will lock moisture out of your home and save you money from cleaning your windows later on. You should also inspect your washing machine hoses and the machine itself for any signs of leaking. Your water heater should also be checked for leaks.
It is a good idea to check your home’’s basement, if there is one, as basements are common hot spots for mold to gather due to humidity. You should also inspect the roof of your new home. Look for any place where water may leak through, or may damage shingles, as this could lead to making costly repairs that could have been avoided. Look for places where shingles appear missing, or shingles that are damaged. You should also be sure to clean your gutters on a regular basis, as neglecting to clean them will lead to rust, and therefor to you having to buy new gutters. Gutter shields will be a big help in this endeavor.
You should also remember to repaint wooden sidings when possible, as water can cause serious damage. You will also want to keep your water hoses disconnected when they are not in use during the winter months. This will save your hoses from being ruined because of damage caused by freezing.
About The Author
Aydan Corkern is a writer in many fields.
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