3 Potential Problems With Your Older Home
If you’re living in an older home, chances are you’re concerned about what may need to be repaired or replaced. Read on for 3 common things to address before they become major problems.
Foundation
Homes are often built on a concrete slab foundation, which provides a stable base for the structure. While foundations are sturdy, the passing of time, as well as the climate in your area, will eventually take a toll. The foundation can become uneven due to movement in the earth surrounding it, and cracks and corrosion may occur. Some signs that a home’s slab is in need of repair or replacement include wall cracks that keep growing, windows that are hard to open and fissures in tile or concrete flooring. You’ll want to consult an expert in slab repairs to determine the condition of your home’s foundation and if it needs attention.
Roof
In the same way, the foundation beneath your feet can cause problems, so can your roof. If you live in an area with harsh weather yours may deteriorate at a quicker pace than elsewhere, but no roof lasts forever. Even if you’ve been lucky enough to avoid a full-blown leak, you should have your roof inspected so you can make proactive repairs. An expert will check for damaged or missing shingles, pooled water, loose chimney flashing and other signs of trouble. Your roof may need some simple patches or require replacement, but either way, correcting concerns before they become major issues will save you time and money in the long run.
Plumbing
Your plumbing is another thing to take a hard look at before it creates problems. Burst pipes and the ensuing flooding can result in costly cleanup, and you’ll still have the expense of fixing your plumbing on top of repairing the flood damage. Have an experienced plumber look over your system, with particular attention given to the type of pipe material that was used. While copper and brass piping can last upwards of 50 years, steel and certain plastics that were used from the 1970s through the 1990s are less durable. Even if things look good now, a plumber can advise you on proper maintenance to ensure your plumbing functions well for years to come.
Older houses often have much more charm and character than those built more recently, but they do require some upkeep. Consult with experts to stay ahead of any problems and ensure that your home stays in great shape.
