Don't Put Off Dealing with these Common Home Issues

No matter how new or carefully maintained your home is, there are some common issues that can arise. The best way to keep from a major headache is to identify the problem right away and deal with it quickly.

Protecting your peace of mind and the value of your home is far easier if you are staying on top of some of these common household problems. 

1. Pests

Ants, mice, spiders, termites, or any other kind of critter can quickly move from an icky annoyance to a major problem. At the first sight of pests, make a plan for how to get rid of them. The faster you can identify the evidence and get them to leave, the less damage they will be able to do. 

Of course some pests are relatively harmless, but an infestation can occur more quickly than you think. It's better to nip any presence of critters in the bud.

Any ants in the house are an indication of openings that need to be better sealed, and any droppings or chew marks are a warning sigh that you have rodents in the house. As soon as you realize you do, call pest control to help. 

2. Mold

The presence of mold can quickly threaten the quality of the home and the health of anyone living in it. While many people are not able to confidently distinguish between dangerous mold and easy-to-clean mildew, any evidence of what might be mold should be assessed by a professional. 

If you catch mold in the beginning, you are likely to be able to deal with it using strong cleaning agents. However, if you put it off the mold may be growing faster and larger than you realize and result in major health problems, and a major renovation. If you have any concerns that mold may be growing, call a professional right away to find out what you are dealing with. 

3. Warped or Sagging Flooring

While some houses, especially those that are older, will have normal sagging and warping in the flooring over time as the house settles, it can also be an indication that something is wrong. 

If you notice sagging or warped flooring, explore the basement or crawlspace beneath it for evidence of structural issues or water damage. Check any pipes around the area, especially if there are any toilets or sinks nearby. Slow water leaks over time are a common culprit, and the sooner you identify the leak, the better. 

4. Standing Water in the Yard

If you notice standing water in the yard, this may be a red flag of drainage issues. Even if it is a natural result of heavy rainfall or significant snow melt, a properly graded yard will drain within a short period of time. 

Standing water in the yard may begin to seep into the foundation, causing issues with structural integrity, mold, and more. 

5. A Sagging Roofline

While it is not always a problem, a sagging roofline can sometimes be an indication of something that needs repair. Some sagging is normal over time, but a newer home should not have a sagging roofline. If you notice a sagging roofline, assess the attic in the same area for any evidence of rotting or damage that may require a professional's help. 

To learn more about keeping your home in great shape, check out our other posts! We love to help people find their homes in the Metro Detroit area, and post helpful tips regarding how to take the best care of them.