5 Common Issues Found in Maryland Homes and How to Address Them
May 2023
Water Damage
Issue/Concern
Maryland is known for its frequent rain and snow, and water damage is a common problem in homes. Water damage can cause mold growth, rot, and damage to the structure of the home.
Solution
If you suspect water damage, it is important to address the issue immediately. Identify the source of the water and fix any leaks. Remove any standing water and dry out the affected area as quickly as possible. If there is extensive damage, you may need to hire a professional restoration company.
Mold
Issue/Concern
Moisture from water damage or high humidity can lead to mold growth in Maryland homes. Mold can cause respiratory problems and other health issues, and it can also damage walls, ceilings, and floors.
Solution
- Identify the source of the moisture: Mold needs moisture to grow, so it’s important to identify and fix any leaks or other sources of moisture that may be causing the problem.
- Contain the mold: If the affected area is small, you can try to contain the mold by covering it with plastic sheeting and sealing off the area with duct tape. This can help prevent the spread of spores to other areas of your home.
- Wear protective gear: Mold can cause respiratory problems and other health issues, so it’s important to wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and an N95 respirator mask, when cleaning up mold.
- Clean the affected area: Use a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a commercial mold cleaner to clean the affected area. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid mixing different cleaners, as this can create toxic fumes.
- Dry the area thoroughly: Once the mold has been cleaned up, it’s important to dry the area thoroughly to prevent further mold growth. Use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry the area, and fix any leaks or other sources of moisture as soon as possible.
If the mold problem is extensive or you have health concerns, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company to address the issue. They can assess the extent of the problem, safely clean up the mold, and take steps to prevent future mold growth.
Termites
Issue/Concern
Termites are a common problem in Maryland and can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home. Signs of termite infestation include mud tubes on walls or foundation, discarded wings, and hollow-sounding wood.
Solution
If you suspect termites, it is important to hire a professional pest control company to inspect your home and treat any infestations. Preventative measures such as treating the soil around your home and keeping firewood away from your home can also help prevent termite infestations.
Aging infrastructure
Issue/Concern
Many homes in Maryland were built before modern building codes were established, which means that they may have outdated electrical or plumbing systems that need to be updated or replaced.
Solution
- Hire a professional inspection: A licensed home inspector can assess the condition of your home’s infrastructure, including electrical and plumbing systems, and identify any areas that need repair or replacement.
- Upgrade your electrical system: Older homes may have outdated electrical systems that are not up to code or cannot handle the electrical demands of modern appliances and electronics. Upgrading your electrical system can help improve safety and prevent electrical fires.
- Replace plumbing pipes: Older homes may have plumbing pipes made of lead, galvanized steel, or other materials that are no longer used in modern construction. These pipes can corrode or break down over time, leading to leaks, low water pressure, and other issues. Replacing plumbing pipes with newer materials, such as copper or PEX, can help improve water quality and prevent plumbing problems.
- Upgrade heating and cooling systems: Older homes may have outdated heating and cooling systems that are inefficient and expensive to operate. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient system can help improve indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and increase comfort.
- Consider energy-efficient upgrades: In addition to upgrading your infrastructure, there are many other energy-efficient upgrades you can make to your home, such as adding insulation, sealing air leaks, and installing energy-efficient windows and doors. These upgrades can help reduce energy costs and improve the comfort of your home.
Electrical Issues
Issue/Concern
Electrical issues can be a safety hazard in homes. Signs of electrical issues include flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, and outlets or switches that are hot to the touch.
Solution
If you suspect electrical issues, hire a licensed electrician to inspect your home and make any necessary repairs or upgrades. It is also important to never overload outlets or extension cords, and to have your electrical system inspected regularly.