Handling a home can be difficult, especially when things are happening that you don't even realize. Here are a couple of the most common issues that might be happening right in front of your eyes!
1. Smoke
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, about 96% of homes have a working smoke detector. One of the most important things you can do is to invest in a good quality smoke detector. Additionally, be sure to replace the batteries every couple of months.
There are two main types of smoke detectors: ionization and photoelectric. The ionization smoke detectors, though much cheaper, have been shown to be less likely to detect slow burning fires or embers. Those types of fires are extremely common because they can be started by things like a cigarette, frayed wire, or even a fireplace!
The ionization type of smoke detector can sometimes take up to 20-30 minutes longer to activate than the photoelectric alarm! Even though both will work in an event of a fire, the photoelectric alarm has been shown to give a more timely response!
2. Mold
This may seem like an obvious hazard, but did you know that most of the mold in your house is hidden within the walls or below the flooring?
Long-term exposure to mold can cause serious health issues. It has been known to trigger asthma in people of all ages. People often discover mold in their house while searching for a cause to their prolonged illness.
It is important to be very careful in commonly damp places such as bathrooms and basements. Having a proper ventilation system can make all the difference in the world!
3. Furniture that Easily Tips Over
Whether a stove or a television, light weight furniture is simply easier to install for contractors or D.I.Y home improvements. These heavier items are more likely to be tipped over! This is most common with flat screen televisions and families with small children. It is highly recommended to check the base of the television for stability. If possible, screw the base into a television stand or piece of stable furniture.
It is becoming more and more common for home inspectors to include checking the stove for anti-tip brackets as a part of their regular inspection, so be sure your inspectors does!
4. Lead Paint
If you have a newer house, this most likely does not apply to you! But everyone has heard about lead paint and dangers it provides, but if your home was made before 1978 it might be worth finding out more! (For more information on what you should know before purchasing an older home, click here.)
Lead paint was commonly used in homes built prior to 1950, but was not completely banned until 1978. It is possible to purchase a test kit to check the toxicity of the paint on your walls. Over time, paint can chip and tear resulting in small particles of toxic paint in the air and on furniture. This puts both adults and children at risk for lead poisoning.
If lead paint is in fact found, it might be necessary to hire a professional to remove it. Removing it by yourself can be dangerous if you do not know the proper protocols!
If you take preventative steps to avoid these common hidden hazards then home ownership will be a much smoother process!
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