Like all physical structures exposed to the outside, chimneys are often in need of repair. Traditionally, chimneys are built with mortar, which is susceptible to natural erosion and weathering.

Chimneys must also be cleaned and maintained regularly to stay in proper working condition. Without proper maintenance, you may not even discover minor damage like flue cracks. If not repaired, minor damage can get worse and become a major expense to repair later on.

It is essential that your attic and crawl space is adequately ventilated.  Without proper ventilation in your attic or crawl space, mold, mildew and bacteria will grow. Moreover, moisture, chemical vapors and radon may migrate into your home. Fortunately, in your old house, or in a newer house that has a crawl space, you can ensure that the crawl space is properly ventilated.

An economical and customizable material, Sheetrock is often used as the interior ceiling for homes. While this material is versatile and resilient, it is susceptible to many of the same problems as other building materials. These problems are often brought on by causes either above or below the Sheetrock itself.

Moisture

One of the most common problems associated with Sheetrock ceilings comes from moisture. Leaking pipes within the ceiling or flooding from an upstairs bathroom or roof can cause water to drip down and collect on top of the drywall ceiling. The stagnant water attracts mildew and slowly rots the drywall from the top down. While a dripping leak from the ceiling is usually the first sign of water affecting drywall, brown or black spots will form over time.

Structural Damage

Poorly set drywall ceilings or ceilings installed in houses with existing structural damage are also prone to damage, usually in the form of cracks or crumbling areas. Walls that use the ceiling as a structural support put excess pressure on Sheetrock, which is not designed to be load bearing. Eventually, areas where the stress is concentrated crack or crumble. Crumbling areas of Sheetrock ceilings usually occur near the walls of a room but cracks can run across the length of a ceiling board. Cracks in Sheetrock due to structural damage are a symptom of a much larger problem that may require review from a professional.

Smoke

Households with smokers often experience yellowing or browning on their Sheetrock ceilings that can spread to the tops of the walls. The coloring is caused by exhaled chemicals such as tar and nicotine which is absorbed by the paper covering of the Sheetrock. Smoking outside will prevent further discoloration and repainting the ceiling will clear up any immediate yellowing or browning.

Oil

Like the tar from smoke, oil in the kitchen can condense on the ceiling and form a thin layer of filmy sludge that makes the ceiling appear yellow or discolored. This film will also hold dust and dirt, making the ceiling harder to clean. Ensure the kitchen has proper ventilation and clean the stove hoods regularly to ensure the kitchen ceiling remains oil free.

Electrical fires can originate from faulty power outlets and old wiring throughout the home. In urban neighborhoods alone, bad wiring causes most of the electrical fires in residential areas. Electrical fires are often preventable, resulting from improper use of electric cords and inadequate maintenance of wiring.

Identifying roof damage is a critical part of owning a home.  Roof damage is caused by a variety of different factors including hail, high winds, extreme temperatures, ice as well as falling objects like tree limbs. Any damage to the roof of a home or building should be repaired immediately to prevent additional damage from occurring.

Weather and debris can damage your gutters and affect the ability to properly drain your roof. This drainage system can help channel water away from your foundation. When the gutters won’t drain, water may pool on your eves eventually causing moisture rot. If the gutters remain full of leaves, bird nests, water, or other organic matter, the weight may bend the hangers and alter the attachment to the roof. This can changes the rate, which water will drain through the gutters and off the roof. Sagging gutters can allow standing water which may cause the gutter to rust and develop holes over time. Roofing cement or plastic compounds help fill holes and cracks. You may want to repaint your gutters when you repaint your trim. Painted gutters can be less likely to rust and develop leaks. A mesh cover is available for your gutters and may prevent the build-up of organic matter. Be careful to avoid damaging your downspouts. For more information on gutter damage, contact a roofing or guttering specialist.

Attics are scarcely frequented by the inhabitants of the home, water damage and other problems can sometimes go unnoticed, a hazard because water damage issues in the attic can become worse the longer they are left unresolved.