Mia
No matter how well people maintain their properties, there always seems to be something that needs attention. Things start playing up, making weird noises or malfunctioning in some way. People wonder how to repair chipped granite countertop edges or stop that annoying dripping tap. In this article, we’re going to discuss 6 home repairs that you shouldn’t ignore.
1. Faulty Locks
If your locks are old, worn down, or just not working properly, it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible. You could end up locked out of your house and trying to climb in through a window (which can be dangerous). A broken lock can make your home vulnerable to burglars and other criminals. It’s also a (potentially deadly) fire hazard if you can’t get out of your house quickly in an emergency.
Bristol is located on the River Avon, and it’s the most populated city in the South West of England. If you can’t fix your own locks, it’s possible to find low cost locksmiths in Bristol by going online, and some companies can arrive within 30 minutes. Their websites often feature customer reviews and helpful videos as well as details of clients they’ve completed work for.
2. Leaking Water
If water leaks are not quickly addressed, they can damage ceilings, walls, floors and furniture – or cause electrical fires. If you notice that your water pressure has decreased or if there’s evidence of rust on your pipes, it’s likely that you have a leaky pipe. Your pipes should be checked every few years for signs of wear and tear and repaired/replaced as necessary to avoid costly water damage.
Old or faulty taps can also cause leaks so it’s important to check them regularly for drips and replace them when needed. A dripping tap can waste up to 20 litres of water per day (which will increase your water bills) so it’s definitely worth fixing. If you have a leaking tap, turn off the water supply at the main valve then turn on the tap and check to see where the leak is coming from. Often, a new washer or o-ring is all that’s needed to fix a leaking tap. Failing that (or if you’re not confident at DIY) call a plumber.
3. Drafts From Windows Or Doors
One way to help keep your home comfortable and save on your energy bill is to make sure the seals around your windows and doors are in good condition. If drafts are coming in, you’ll lose heat, resulting in higher utility bills. You can test for drafts by holding a lit candle near the edges of your doors and windows. If the flame flickers, there’s likely a draft. If you find that your windows and doors need sealing, you can do it yourself with weather stripping or caulking, or hire a contractor to do the job for you.
It may be that your windows and doors (together with their frames) are old, inefficient and in need of replacement. Whilst this can be expensive, it may be worth it in the long term if you factor in the cost of lost energy over time. Many companies offer financing options, so you can spread out the cost of new windows or doors over several months.
4. Blocked Drains, Sinks And Gutters
It’s inevitable that at some point blocked drains will become an issue in your home. It may be that leaves, dirt, or something else is stopping the water from draining outside your house. If so, this could be a simple clearance task that anyone can do. If your kitchen or bathroom sink is blocked, try using a chemical cleaner to clear the blockage. Be careful when using these products and always follow the instructions on the bottle. If you’re uncomfortable using them, there are environmentally friendly alternatives that can be purchased from most hardware stores.
Gutters play an important role in draining water, so it’s important to keep them clear at all times. If they become blocked, the water will back up or overflow -potentially damaging your roof, walls, and foundation. If you’re not comfortable clearing blocked drains or gutters yourself, it’s best to call in a professional. They’ll have the necessary equipment and experience to get the job done quickly and safely.
5. Missing Or Damaged Roof Tiles
It may be that there was a storm and some of your tiles were broken, moved or came off. If you ignore this issue the following could happen:
- The water will get in, which could lead to the rotting of roof timbers and even the collapse of part or all of the roof.
- The gaps created by the missing tiles will let freezing cold air into your home in winter and boiling hot air in summer.
- A loose tile could fall off and land on someone.
These problems can easily be avoided by carrying out a quick repair job. Once again, if you’re not sufficiently confident/skilled (or have a fear of heights), leave it to a professional. In terms of safety, they can supply a scaffold if necessary.
6. Faulty Smoke Detectors
If your smoke detector is broken, it won’t work properly and you’ll be at risk of not being alerted in the event of a fire. If the smoke detector starts beeping, it’s likely that the battery is low or dead. Test them regularly and change the batteries when they start to get weak. This has to be one of the easiest yet most important DIY tasks! If your smoke detectors are covered in dust or debris they won’t be able to do their job properly either, so clean them regularly with a vacuum cleaner. Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years, so if yours is older than that, it’s time for a new one.
Also, take action if you have faulty wiring – for instance, if your bulbs keep blowing or the fuses keep breaking. Keep a regular eye open for all the issues we’ve discussed, and always act quickly. In return, you’ll be stewarding your property and safeguarding human life in the process.
