Home Renovation | Common and Costly Mistakes New Homeowners Make

Getting a new home can be quite exciting. You get to live in a whole new area, meet new friends and enjoy the new environs. But it is also a costly venture and one that doesn't have to be ruined by mistakes. Unfortunately, new homeowners tend to make quite a lot of those, and the consequences are not pretty at all. Here are some common wrongs that can also dig deeper into your pockets.

Tinting Double Glazed Windows

These are the kind of windows that have two glass panes that sandwich a layer of 'dead air'. The air trapped in between them is sealed in a way that no air can leave or enter the glass. That's how double glazed windows can conserve energy better.

Tinting the interior pane is just asking for trouble. The tint would absorb most of the heat and reflect it into that dead air between the panes. The air temperature there rises high enough to rupture the seals, and this kills the efficiency of these windows. That will also void the warranty in addition to allowing moisture between the panes. Then you'll start calculation on costs of replacing them.

Altering Finished Grade

Surfaces that have been comprehensively built to their proper elevation need to remain that way. They are usually built to slope away from the building so that rainwater drains away from the home. However, some homeowners place patios or sidewalks over the finished grade, and this is one cause of problems. Water drains poorly and starts flowing right beside the home, seeping deeper into its foundation. Eventually, the water causes the sand to expand and finally cause serious damages to the foundation.

Not Controlling Irrigation Sprinklers

Allowing your sprinklers to get water to your walls, lap siding or even fences can accelerate the rotting process. The colour of the walls would also leach and any metallic materials would rust. Worse still, the water may seep beneath the ground to the foundation and cause movement that may lead to damages. Ensure you check your sprinklers regularly and confirm that they are not spraying water where they shouldn't.

Not Using Bathroom Vents

The fan in the bathroom may get too noisy, but it is important to ensure that it's never turned off. Areas such as laundry areas and bathrooms have very high moisture content, and that kind of humidity may cause damage if the fans are switched off. The moisture may seep into drywalls, frames and even electrical outlets like sockets (which may be quite dangerous). In the end, they'll contribute to mould and fungi and even weaken the structural integrity of the place.

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