(Newswire.net — December 9, 2019) — A study by RISC revealed that many homeowners buy property without having a survey first. As a result, they spend thousands in unexpected repairs. House problems are common, especially in properties older than 50 years.
So, what are the common issues found in homes? How are they best solved? Let’s take a look.
Recent Survey Results
American and Canadian home inspectors have conducted surveys and discovered nine main issues found in homes.
- Improper surface drainage – this problem is the most frequent in the reports and leads to water penetration.
- Improper electrical wiring – problems people reported include inadequate overload protection, insufficient electrical service, and more.
- Roof damage – roof leakage was reported by less than 10% of the respondents but is still a common problem.
- Heating system issues – the most common problems were malfunctioning or broken controls, blocked chimneys, and more.
- Low-quality maintenance – the researchers found cracked and peeling surfaces, makeshift plumbing and wiring, and broken appliances and fixtures.
- Structure issues – homes tend to sustain damage to their structural components due to other problems.
- Plumbing – old and incompatible plumbing materials, broken waste lines and fixtures are all typical.
- Exteriors – windows, doors and walls tend to be responsible for air and water penetration.
- Poor ventilation – oversealing a home can result in interior moisture and rotting.
Also, they created a miscellaneous category for primarily interior components and cosmetic issues.
Professional Opinion
Rick Yerger, a professional inspector, points out that water is the number one enemy to house safety. He points out several areas which can pose issues.
Grade Sloping
This issue can lead to foundation movement, cracking or settlement, as well as wet crawlspaces. Some indications of the problem include out-of-square windows, gaps in doors, and unlevel floors.
Stucco Exterior
Homes with stucco exterior surface last a lifetime if applied well. However, if water enters it through cracks, the exterior will shed over time and water will enter the home.
Roofing Materials
The material which covers the roof ages with the house. As it happens, it can lead to water intrusion and expensive repairs. If your roof is old or improperly installed, you’ll need to repair or reinstall it.
Roofing company professionals say that the most important factors to consider are the roofing materials with the longest lifespan, whether it works with the roof slope, and ease of maintenance. To learn more, visit the site and find suitable alternatives.
Foundation Risks
When it comes to foundation settlement, the most common culprit is expansive soil, clay being the prime example. When this type of soil gets wet, it expands, and contracts in dry conditions.
So, the soil in your foundation shifts and settles at an uneven rate. This occurrence compromises the stability of the entire house.
The type of soil isn’t the only possible reason for this, though. If the builder didn’t prepare the foundation site with great care before pouring, grounds are likely to settle and shift. Older homes are, of course, at more risk. Some other risk factors include the following conditions.
- Heavy rains and floods
- Close water sources
- Poor drainage
- Extended drought periods
- Leaks in plumbing
Fire Risks
Fires might be the most significant concern of homeowners. Houses are easy to catch fire, especially in hot climates. Several studies agree on a list of common causes of house fires.
Cooking Equipment
If pots and pans overheat and get left unattended, they cause a fire in a matter of minutes.
Heating
Portable heaters close to furniture, laundry, clothes, and curtains can make the latter catch fire. Besides, furnaces ask for yearly inspections to ensure safety standards.
Electrical Equipment
Appliances can start fires if they’re faulty or have frayed cords. In addition, powerpoints overloaded with adapter plugs are a considerable risk.
Faulty Wiring
Homes with inadequate wiring suffer electrical hazards. Signs of lousy installation include dimming lights, appliances unable to work simultaneously, and blown fuses.
Flammable Liquids
Kerosene, petrol, and spirits should be kept away from heat sources, or they will light up in no time.
The Bottom Line
Home issues can pose a significant danger to the residents’ wellbeing, and cause problems when and if they decide to have the home inspected before a sale.
No matter whether a person is selling or not, though, they need to maintain regular home inspections to be sure nothing is wrong with the property. After all, homes are the most valuable possession for most people.
With this data in mind, everyone can ensure a more secure environment and less unexpected expenses in the years to come.