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That’s the beauty of owning a house equitybut the downside is the responsibility for repairs. Renovating a house can cost a fortune. Repairs tend to become more expensive the longer they are left untreated, so it is best to take care of them as soon as they occur.
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Here are the home repair signs to look out for and how experts suggest fixing them before they become too expensive.
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Split wooden fence
Wooden fences in backyards often deteriorate over time and can fall apart, costing privacy and money. Zack Clark, the vice president of Pro Fence Business at Oldcastle APG Inc.it is recommended to replace it when signs of decay occur.
“Traditional wooden fences are often the most cost-effective solution for your property, but are prone to fading, cracking, moisture damage, decay and other problems, especially if not properly maintained. At the first sign of these problems, it may be time to consider an upgrade,” said Clark.
He recommended replacing these wooden fences entirely with another material. “Vinyl, aluminum and mixed material fencing solutions are all potential alternatives that are more durable and require less maintenance than traditional wood. These materials are tested for their resistance to issues such as fading and cracking and are generally more resistant to the elements.”
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Smelly drain
Justin Cornforth is the owner and CEO of Ace Home Co. and advised not to ignore a smelly drain in the bathroom or kitchen. “If bad odors are continually coming from your drain, it’s not just a matter of debris buildup. The cause could be a clogged vent pipe, a dry P trap, or gas leaks from the sewer line,” he said.
Cornforth said that if it is a drain that is not used often, running water will usually remove the odor. If it is a drain that is frequently used, a more advanced solution may be necessary. “If it is a frequently used drain, I recommend cleaning the p-trap by removing it and removing any debris. If the odor persists, I highly recommend calling a plumber to inspect for deeper issues, such as ventilation issues or sewer leaks.”
Loose toilet base
“A loose toilet base may not seem like a big deal, but it’s actually something you need to address quickly,” says Cornforth. “If the toilet wobbles, it can break the wax seal at the bottom, allowing water to leak and causing serious damage to the floor below.”
To fix a loose toilet base, Cornforth suggested checking to see if the bolts need to be tightened. Do not overtighten them as this may crack the porcelain. If this doesn’t solve the problem, Cornforth recommends resealing the toilet with a new wax ring to prevent further damage.
Cracked walls or floors
If water isn’t coming out of a crack in the floor or wall, it can be tempting to ignore it, but Jenilee Common, the CEO of Erie Homerecommended to fix it as soon as possible.
“Visible cracks can indicate structural problems. Small cracks can be sealed with epoxy, but expanding or persistent cracks often require professional waterproofing to protect the foundation,” Common said.
Flickering lights
An older home might have lights that flicker a little every now and then, but Forrest Webber, the founder of Fireplace distributor recommended to repair it immediately. “If your lights do the cha-cha, it’s not the work of ghosts. It could be loose wiring, an overloaded circuit, or outdated electrical work. And yes, all roads lead to fire hazards if ignored.”
Webber noted that fixing it might just involve tightening the bulb. However, if that doesn’t work. call an electrician.
Water stains
Webber recommended paying close attention to those yellow rings on the ceiling. “Leaks can lead to mold growth, structural damage and a wet surprise from above,” he said.
To correct the problem, Webber recommended finding the source of the leak and then repairing it by hand or with the help of a plumber. Then, when it’s completely dry, Webber recommends repainting the area.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Home Experts: 6 Signs You’ll Need Repairs Soon – How to Fix It Before It Costs You Money