Taking Care of Your Home Improvement Investment: Walls, Ceilings and Roofs
Walls and Ceilings
Noticing problems with your walls and ceilings can be a good way to pinpoint larger problems as well. Cracks in walls, especially near a doorway or some other load-bearing part of the house, can signal that your foundation is unstable. A professional should address this problem immediately to avoid catastrophic damage to the structure.
Likewise, water spots on the ceiling or walls are indicators of leaks. Sometimes these leaks are minimal and can be fixed easily with a small effort from you. Other times, these leaks can be the first sign of extreme wear and tear and could require an extensive effort to repair. Without immediate attention, water damage can lead to mold, wood rot and a number of significant and costly problems. If you notice water spots in your home, find the source of the problem as quickly as possible or contact a repairperson for help.
Roofs
Roofs, like any other part of the house, experience wear and tear and will need regular maintenance repair. If you suspect a leak in your roof, you can investigate it yourself through your attic space. Before walking around in the attic, however, remember to only step on supported joists. Never step on top of insulation without verifying the support beneath it. Also, do not step directly on the topside of the ceiling because this material will not support you.
To find the source of the leak, trace the water’s path from any water spots you notice. Look for wood discolorations or wet areas along the supporting frame. If you come to an area and suspect a hole, you can briefly turn off the lights and look for any daylight shining through. If the leak is dripping, place a pot or bucket on a supported surface to catch the water. Consult a repair person immediately to replace worn roofing tiles or to patch any holes. Over time, unaddressed water damage can lead to mold and wood rot and can eventually lead to serious structural problems.
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