External Building Inspection and Maintenance Tips
Building inspection is usually an essential step when it comes to purchasing new homes and making property investments. You don't want to move into your dream house and realize you need to replace the whole electrical and plumbing system. For a home owner, building and pest inspections would assist you in performing better maintenance practices on your home. So whether you are buying a new home, or you want to boost your home's condition, here are some good practices you can implement.
Gutter Maintenance
The gutters are a part of the home that are highly susceptible to corrosion. Accumulating and decaying leaves lead to rusting and the presence of moisture further hastens this process. Clean these gutters regularly particularly when there is an overhead tree and pay close attention during autumn and winter. The linings in the gutters also need to be checked for deterioration to prevent animals from chewing their way inside.
Check the Roof
Inspect the roof frequently mainly after a storm or strong winds. Climb into the roof space and search for moisture content or white powder on the wooden frames. More light filtering through the roof is a sign of dislodges or cracked tiles that may need replacing. When replacing the tiles remember to position your foot on the tile joints, otherwise you risk cracking them. If you've got metal roofing, ensure that the protective coating is not scratched. Once this protective layer is scratched, rusting can ensue at an alarming rate.
External Brick Inspection
Bricks are built to resist cracking where they can. Any forces such as rising points and subsiding foundations may cause them to crack at weak points. Windows and door openings are major cracking points but they can be easily repaired. However, cracking that is above 15mm wide indicates serious issues with the foundation or extensive movements. You need to call a professional engineer to figure out where the problem is and how to effectively remedy it.
Guard Your Perimeter
Footings are affected by the soils around your home's perimeter and drainage issues can create some of the most serious problems. Install a paving around your home and ensure it extensively extends outwards away from the foundation. Keep any drainage pipes away from the paving and any taps should be well away from the building. Also ensure that the ground slopes downwards from the building line to prevent drained water from gaining its way back to your foundation.
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