Home Problems Home Inspectors See as Warning Signs When Buying an Edmonton House
When buying a home in Edmonton, it’s easy to be mesmerized by the charm of a property—the expansive living rooms, modern kitchens, or perfectly landscaped backyards. However, what might be hidden beneath these appealing visuals could cost you thousands of dollars down the line. This is why home inspections are not simply recommended; they’re essential.
Professional home inspectors come armed with the expertise to identify subtle but significant issues that could signal future repairs—or worse, structural disasters. This blog post highlights common home problems inspectors often encounter, what they mean, and why they should never be overlooked.
Washing Machine Hose Issues
The Problem
A bulging washing machine hose might not seem like a deal breaker, but it’s a time bomb waiting to go off. Rubber hoses can weaken over time, especially in high-pressure systems, causing them to expand and eventually burst. A burst hose can lead to water gushing out, flooding your home, and causing thousands in damages within minutes.
How to Fix It
Replace old rubber hoses with braided stainless steel hoses. These are much more durable and can handle the high pressure. Also, consider installing a pressure gauge to measure water pressure in your home—it should be under 80 psi. If it’s too high, invest in a pressure-reducing valve to protect your hoses and appliances.
Duct Condensation
The Problem
Stains around a bath fan or walls may mean condensation is forming inside the ducts. This commonly occurs in colder climates like Edmonton’s, where warm, moist bathroom air collides with freezing ducts, resulting in water trickling back and causing damage. Worse still, this issue can lead to mold growth, which poses a health hazard.
How to Fix It
Inspect your duct’s insulation. Poor insulation is likely the culprit of cold ducts. Ensure the ducts are properly insulated all the way to the exterior vent. Additionally, install a timer switch for your bathroom fan, ensuring it runs long enough to dry out any condensation.
Efflorescence on Brick
The Problem
Efflorescence is the white, powdery residue often seen on bricks. It’s caused by moisture traveling through the masonry, leaving mineral deposits on the surface. While the residue itself isn’t harmful, it signals the presence of excess moisture in the structure. Heavy efflorescence can lead to cracks in the masonry or even damaged chimneys, which may allow dangerous gases like carbon monoxide to enter the home.
How to Fix It
Address the source of moisture immediately. Often, cracks in the chimney crown or poor water drainage are the culprits. Use an elastomeric masonry sealer for minor cracks, but for extensive damage, contact a certified chimney repair expert to resolve the issue before it worsens.
Backdrafting Water Heater
The Problem
Backdrafting occurs when gases from your water heater fail to vent out of the house, instead spilling deadly carbon monoxide into your living space. Signs of backdrafting include melted plastic grommets around your water heater’s vent pipes. This is more than a warning sign; it’s a serious hazard that could endanger everyone in the home.
How to Fix It
Install carbon monoxide alarms immediately. These alarms can alert you to dangerous levels in your home. Additionally, inspect your water heater’s vent system—check for blockages, improperly sloping pipes, or disconnected vents. If you’re unsure, consult a licensed HVAC expert to evaluate and fix the issue.
Deck Problems
The Problem
Decks built flush against door thresholds can seem convenient and open up your space, but they also create an entry point for water damage. Rainwater often splashes up or flows against the doorframe. Over time, this can cause the wood to rot, damaging the trim, siding, or even the structural framing underneath.
How to Fix It
To prevent water infiltration, decks should be installed roughly 4 inches below door thresholds. If the deck is already in place, consider installing gutters or flashing to divert water away from the doorway. For snowy Edmonton winters, ensure snow doesn’t pile up against the door.
Water Meter Leaks
The Problem
One of the silent financial drains on your home is water meter leaks. Even with all faucets turned off, if your water meter’s low-flow indicator is still moving, you’re leaking water somewhere. Indoor leaks can often manifest as water stains on ceilings or walls, but outdoor leaks may remain hidden for years, seeping into the ground.
How to Fix It
Perform a simple test by turning off your main water valve and observing your meter. If it’s still moving, the leak is likely coming from an outdoor source or irrigation system. Inspect areas for unusually green patches of grass or wet spots in the yard. Resolve minor leaks like a dripping faucet by replacing parts, but major leaks may require excavation or irrigation repairs.
Indoor and Outdoor Leaks
The Problem
Indoor leaks aren’t hard to spot—look for water stains, puddles on floors, or soggy drywall. Outdoor leaks, however, are often harder to detect. Leaks in irrigation systems can significantly increase water bills and often go unnoticed for years.
How to Fix It
Monitor your water usage closely to track any irregularities. For irrigation systems, turn off the indoor valve supplying the system and look for changes in the meter measurement. Addressing leaks early can prevent widespread water damage and save money on bills.
Why Home Inspections Are Essential
When you’re investing in an Edmonton home, the last thing you need is unexpected repair bills, mold issues, or dangerous hazards like carbon monoxide poisoning. Warning signs like a bulging washing machine hose, efflorescence, or duct condensation might seem minor—but left unaddressed, they can spiral into costly and dangerous problems.
Hiring a professional home inspector ensures you catch these issues early and gives you a clearer understanding of your property’s condition before making a final decision.
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