Home Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore

Water in the basement after a rain, cracks in the foundation or scary sounds from your HVAC are some red-flag problems you shouldn’t ignore. Here are some other home issues that you should address before they become an even bigger problem.

Critters

Seeing ants on the kitchen countertops or finding mouse droppings in cabinets are signs that you have openings in your house that need to be closed. Check exhaust vents, condensate lines, pipes, ducts, utility access panels, and garage doors. Look for obvious gaps, signs of nesting or chewing, ripped screening, and seal and repair. Lay traps for your uninvited house guests, but if that makes you queasy, a pest-control professional may be needed.

Mold

Mold can occasionally occur in wet spots in the kitchen and the bathroom, especially after an undetected faucet leak. These areas can generally be cleaned by yourself with a bleach/water solution, and taking precautions such as using rubber gloves, wearing safety glasses, a respirator mask, and keeping the area well ventilated. However, when mold shows up on the living room wall, ceiling, or baseboards, that is a larger problem. If not remediated, mold can do extensive damage to your home and make you very sick. According to the EPA, all mold has the potential to cause ill health. The best solution is to call a professional for evaluation and clean-up.

As with all contractors, check for certifications and references.

A Sagging or Warped Floor

A warped floorboard may be the result of natural settling, but you shouldn’t assume that it is harmless without having a look in your basement or crawlspace. Warping and sagging can be signs of structural damage. Call a home inspector or engineer for advice and assistance.

Smelly or Gurgling Drains

Gurgling may be caused by a blockage you can remove with a snake or plunger. If a sink is smelly and you do not use it frequently it may be due to the fact that the water in the U-shaped pipe underneath may have dried out, allowing methane gas into the room. This can be fixed by pouring water down the drain and airing out the room. If a smell or noise persists, call a plumber to investigate your vent pipes.

Dripping Faucets

A leaky faucet may seem like a minor problem, but it can waste a shocking amount of water. Don’t wait until you hear or see a drip, but actively check the cabinets under your sinks to make sure nothing is leaking.

Shaky Stair Railings

Wobbly stair railings should not be ignored, especially if there are children or elderly residents. A stair railing should resist a force of about 200 pounds, so if your staircase moves more than a little just by touching it, tighten the railing’s attachment to the wall.

Peeling Paint

If paint is peeling on the outside of the house, sun and water can damage the wood underneath. If paint is peeling in rough squares on the inside of the house, that is usually a sign that a lead-based paint is underneath. Removing lead is a safety hazard and should only be done by a lead-certified professional.

For assistance with any interior or exterior improvement projects, call Callen today at 414-765-2585 for a FREE inspection and estimate. We’re the exterior remodeling company Milwaukee homeowners have trusted since 1986!