Five Summer Threats to Your Home

Summer is a time for vacations, family barbecues and other fun outdoor activities. Unfortunately, despite the seasonal fun, summer weather can also bring some unique problems for homeowners. Let’s explore five summertime threats to your home that you may want to keep watch on this season.

Excessive Heat

Summer heat may do more than burn your skin – it could leave a burning repair bill for your wallet. The hot sun can weaken sealant on driveways and sidewalks. Caulk or other sealants used around doors and windows may also be susceptible to heat damage during the summer. Excessive heat may cause these sealants to soften, making them more susceptible to damage or leading to shrinking or cracking and, in turn, expensive leaks around your home or reduced life for your concrete surfaces.

Hailstorms

Hailstorms are responsible for a considerable amount of damage each year. As we discussed in last month’s blog, some of this damage from hail may be obvious, but damage to roofs, skylights and upper-level windows may be more difficult to detect from the ground. This hail damage can result in expensive home repairs if not identified quickly.

Insects

Ants, termites (more of an issue in the US) and other pests are more active during the warm, summer months. As these bug populations increase, you could be facing colonies that are looking for food – food like the structures of your home. Carpenter ants and termites are two pests that can cause significant damage to your home if not detected and treated early. Keep an eye around the home for any sign of these or other pests and move quickly to contact an exterminator at the first sign of an infestation, like a sawdust pile.

Plumbing

Tree roots may damage foundations and plumbing. Trees are actively growing during the summer months, and send out roots or grow out existing root structures in every direction in search of water. Tree roots can cause damage to building foundations, and can also grow around water or sewer lines, leading to burst or cracked intake or drainage lines – an expensive project to dig up and repair!

Ductwork

Damaged or improperly installed ductwork may increase utility costs. Air conditioning ducts that are leaking allow cool air to escape into dead spaces, like attics or basements, rather than being carried to the living space where it is needed. These leaks can significantly increase energy costs during hot weather. Make sure your ducts are sealed and properly closed to minimize cold air loss in your home.

Accurate Home Inspections can identify many threats to your home to save you money. Whether you would like an inspection of your current home to make sure all systems are working as they should be or want to inspect a home you are considering purchasing, our experienced inspectors can identify risks and potential issues that you need to know about. Contact us today by calling 403-826-6111 or schedule an inspection online.