In Minnesota, we get a taste of all seasons. Because of the Minnesota weather, many people experience that their homes have moisture in them during certain times of the year. Moisture in a home is a leading cause of some health problems. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, moisture that leads to mold can produce allergens, irritants, and can cause upper respiratory conditions. Because of this, it is recommended to examine your home for possible moisture issues that may have resulted from this winter.
Moisture issues not only affect an individual’s health, it also is a concern for your property. Ignoring moisture issues in your home will only lead to more issues down the road. Read about some areas where moisture can present itself so you know where to look.
Your roof is a major barrier and protector of your house from the Minnesota weather. When shingles get old or damaged, they typically will allow water to leak through and saturate your roof’s under layment. Those shingles that are doing this should be replaced. Many homeowners experience watermarks on their ceiling. This is an issue that needs to be addressed. It is probable that water has already leaked through your roof and coated the attic floors and trusses. Investing in high quality flashing may be something to look into as a preventative measure for this issue.
Windows and doors sometimes leak. The leaking typically starts near the corners, so when examining them, start in the corners for moisture. If the paint is discolored or peeling, it is likely that there has already been water damage. Windows that sweat can also be an indicator that moisture is occurring when it should not be.
If you examine your foundation and see that there are cracks, these cracks should be evaluated to see how much water damage has been done from it. The cracks easily allow water to seep through and cause damage to your home.
Clogged rain gutters can cause water in basements, damp basements, ruined landscaping, rotting wood around windows, and icy walkways (if the temperature drops). It is important to make sure the gutters are clean so that they can do their job properly and direct rainfall away from the home.
If your yard has a sprinkler system, make sure that the systems misting pattern is directed away from your home and not actually hitting your home. If water is hitting your foundation, this may cause moisture in your basement.
If you suspect that your water has moisture damage, give Snap Construction a call. We will come out and give your home a free inspection to assess the situation and necessary steps to be taken.
Keep your home dry and happy!
This information is brought to you by Snap Construction, Inc.
