Often, new homeowners are caught off guard by the cost of unexpected home repairs. Knowing what to expect can help you budget accordingly and avoid surprises.
While you should always rely on professionals for larger, more complicated repair jobs, there are many smaller tasks you can handle yourself, such as replacing air filters, clearing minor sink clogs and repainting rooms. It is a good idea to prepare yourself for home repairs as it comes with the cost of homeownership. Many homeowners that invest in home warranty companies in MN have found out that they save a lot of money in repair costs. Many of these repairs are due to HVAC, plumbing, or electrical issues. These require professional help to ensure it is properly repaired. Other issues may be somewhat less hands-on to fix.
Here are some home repairs that you may come across from owning a home.
Water Damage
Water damage can be one of the most devastating problems a homeowner can face. From major floods to small leaks, it can destroy everything in its path. It can also threaten the safety of your family and cause health problems. This problem is often not noticed until it’s too late.
Homeowners should regularly check their homes for signs of water damage. This can include checking their basements, crawlspaces, and behind appliances like the refrigerator. A regular inspection could save homeowners from expensive water damage repair and repairs in the future.
If you notice water damage, it’s important to dry out the affected areas immediately. This can be done by opening up windows and bringing in fans. It’s also important to disinfect the area to ensure any bacteria and mold is eliminated. It can take up to 72 hours for a flooded area to completely dry out. This is a lengthy process but it’s vital to avoid mold growth and structural damage.
Stuck Windows
Stuck windows are often a problem that homeowners will face at some point. They can be a nuisance and can lead to a rotting window, which can become a health and safety issue. Thankfully, many of these issues can be resolved at home.
For example, if the window is stuck due to humidity, try running a hair dryer around the edges of the wooden frame to help dry it out. Alternatively, you can place a dehumidifier in the room where the window is to help lower moisture levels.
You can also lubricate the tracks where the window sash slides up and down by using soap or candle wax. If the window is nailed shut or painted shut, you can use a putty knife to remove the paint and widen the channel where the window opens. If you’re lucky, this will be enough to get the window open. However, if the window is still stuck after trying these solutions, it may be time to call in the pros.
Old or Damaged Pipes
Your home’s plumbing system is essential for everyday comfort, from showering in the morning to doing laundry and cooking dinner at the end of the day. But, like anything else in your house, the pipes can wear out over time due to age,
environmental factors and routine use.
Often, a damaged pipe isn’t obvious and can go unnoticed for days or weeks until water damage starts to destroy property and your belongings. A leaking or broken pipe can also affect your health by contaminating your drinking water with harmful substances such as mold and rust.
The best way to avoid costly pipe repairs is by taking the proper preventative steps such as insulating your pipes. You can purchase insulation at most hardware stores and you should install it in any uninsulated areas such as the basement or garage. You should also disconnect your hoses from the outside faucet before winter, and check for any leaks regularly.
Electrical Issues
When lights flicker or switch off, that is a sign of an electrical issue and should be checked by a professional. This can be due to a lack of electrical capacity in your house, or overlamping (light fixtures using higher than recommended wattage).
Loose wiring is another common problem that could lead to fires if not fixed promptly. It typically happens when the contacts in receptacles wear out and no longer grip the prongs of plugs securely. If you notice this, take out the receptacle and replace it with new ones.
Surges are spikes in current that increase the amount of power flowing through outlets, and repeated surges can damage or drastically reduce your electronics’ lifespan. Surges are caused by many things including lightning strikes, electric company slip-ups, and damaged power lines. Having a surge protector is a good idea to minimize their impact, but you should still get any electrical issues fixed as soon as possible.
