I'm Robert from Michigan's Handyman, and I've seen it all when it comes to home disasters as a seasoned residential builder with over three decades of experience in Michigan. From minor mishaps to major catastrophes, the thing they always have in common is they're often avoidable mistakes made by homeowners. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through ten common ways you might be unknowingly wreaking havoc on your Michigan home and I'll also provide expert tips on how to fix it from causing further damage. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or new to the game, this list will help you safeguard your home and keep your property in pristine condition for years to come. Let's dive in!
1. Ignoring Roof Maintenance
Your shingles on the roof of your home are your first line of defense against Michigan's harsh weather conditions. Ignoring routine maintenance like inspecting for damaged shingles, clearing debris, and repairing leaks can lead to costly water damage and structural issues later. Scheduling regular roof inspections can address issues in a timely manner and prevent damage.
2. Neglecting Gutter Cleaning
Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and potentially seep into your home's foundation, leading to basement flooding and structural damage. Regular gutter cleaning, especially in the spring and fall when leaves and debris are abundant, can prevent water from leaking and wreaking havoc to your home and causing ice dams in winter.
3. Smoke Detector Neglect:
Broken or missing smoke detectors can leave your home vulnerable to fire hazards. Ensure optimal safety by installing smoke detectors in every bedroom, hallway, and living space. Regularly test and clean smoke detectors to ensure they function properly, in case of fire emergencies.
4. Ignoring Chimney Maintenance
Protect your chimney from the elements. Regular inspection and repair of the chimney crown can prevent water damage from happening. If any brick mortar decay is noticed it should be addressed right away to maintain structural integrity of the chimney. Install and maintain a quality chimney rain cap to safeguard against water leakage, debris buildup, and to keep animals out.
5. Improperly Installing or Maintaining Sump Pumps
Sump pumps can prevent basement flooding, especially in Michigan's rainy climate. Sump pumps should be properly installed and regularly maintained to ensure it functions properly when you need it most. The last thing you want is a flooded basement.
6. Overlooking Exterior Maintenance
Michigan's weather can cause damage to your home's exterior, causing paint to peel, siding to warp, and wood to rot. Regularly inspect your home's exterior for signs of damage and make sure to promptly address issues like repainting, repairing siding, and replacing rotted wood to protect your home from the elements.
7. Lack Of Proper Insulation
Inadequate insulation can lead to higher energy bills and reduced comfort in your home, especially during our cold winters. Have your home's insulation inspected and add or replace insulation as needed to improve energy efficiency and comfort.
8. Neglecting Crawl Space Encapsulation:
Unencapsulated crawl spaces can lead to moisture problems, mold growth, and pest infestations. Ensuring your crawl space is properly encapsulated can prevent moisture buildup and improve indoor air quality throughout your home.
9. Not Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing
Frozen pipes can cause costly water damage from improperly winterizing outdoor plumbing fixtures like hose bibs and irrigation systems. Disconnect hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and insulate exposed pipes before winter arrives to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
10. Improperly Ventilating Attics and Crawl Spaces
Inadequate ventilation in attics and crawl spaces can allow moisture to buildup causing mold growth, and wood rot. Make sure your attic and crawl space are ventilated right to allow moisture to escape. This will prevent damage to your home's structure and save you money in the end.
By addressing these common mistakes and implementing preventive measures, you can protect your Michigan home from unnecessary damage and keep it in top condition for years to come. Michigan's Handyman can help keep your home in tip top shape with regular maintenance by changing some of the bad habits regarding home repair listed above. Remember, regular home maintenance is crucial to preserving the value and integrity of your most valuable asset.
Do you need a Michigan Handyman with lots of satisfied references call (248) 506-4000 to speak to us, or fill out our free estimate form.
