Homes & Nature

The primary purpose of our homes is to protect us, our family, and our belongings from outside forces. We want, and need, security and comfortable living conditions. Otherwise, we could live outdoors, sleep on the ground, and bathe in a creek. This might be a less expensive way to progress through life, but our families probably wouldn't be thrilled with us. Humans have basic desires, and proper housing is near the top of the list.

Our homes are constructed with materials that have their basis in natural organic items. The wooden structural components obviously are made from trees, and the other materials are manufactured from various substances that have originated in nature. Over time, nature tries to reclaim these materials. Weather conditions create wear and tear on the exposed surfaces, and gravity exerts a constant pull upon the structure. As homeowners, we face the struggle of trying to stay ahead of nature as we work to keep our homes secure.

Rain, snow, hail, wind, and the sun are beating against the roofing materials, siding, and windows of our homes. Deterioration and decay are working their detrimental effects on the exposed organic materials. Mold spores are searching for proper conditions to take up residence in our homes. Wood destroying organisms are always working to find a way into our structural components. Insects are in search of a suitable living environment. All of these factors can combine to destroy a building that is not properly maintained.

How do we prevent nature from reclaiming our homes? The first step is to examine the exterior of the home on a regular basis. Loose or damaged roofing materials should be repaired or replaced. Flashings should be inspected for damage, since this is frequently one of the first places where water can enter the living spaces. Rubber vent boots only have an expected life fo a few years before they begin to crack. Siding materials should be checked for cracks or other issues that might allow weather intrusion. Windows and doors need to be caulked periodically, since caulking materials tend to dry, crack, and separate from surfaces over time. The foundation materials should be examined for cracks or other damage.

Regular inspections can help to prevent expensive repairs by catching issues early. Many homeowners have a tendency to get into a routine of working, coming home, having meals, relaxing for a few hours, then going to bed. Walking around the perimeter of the home to look for any changes to the structure tends to be overlooked. I encourage you to invest some time into getting acquainted with your home, especially the exterior. Spending a few minutes several times each year looking at your home's exterior can save you thousands of dollars, and some severe headaches, as you familiarize yourself with the many components of the home. When you know the way your home should look, it is much easier to realize when things are changing.

Mold in Residential Properties

Homes can be ruined by mold. One of the more famous cases is the home of Ed McMahon, but many other homes have also been made uninhabitable because of mold infestations. Homeowners, home buyers, and renters should be aware that their residences may be affected by mold. Many times, a home seller will take steps to hide mold from buyers. The seller may use special paint and new carpets to conceal whatever is there. For these reasons, a professional inspection should be done in order to find issues the seller may be hiding. This is especially true in a market where homes are not selling as quickly as sellers would prefer.



There are a number of "red flags" that can alert you to the presence of mold in your home. The first is allergy symptoms, such as sinus problems, frequent headaches, respiratory issues, or sore throat. If these symptoms are common while at home, but diminish while away on vacation, the property should be inspected as soon as possible. If your home smells like an antique mall, the situation should be investigated because there is likely dampness that should be corrected. If discoloration is noticed on walls, ceilings, or floors, the situation should be investigated. The most dangerous attitude a homeowner can have is, "If I don't know something is there, it can't hurt me!"



The bottom line is that the air we breathe in our home, school, and workplace should never make us sick. Our indoor air quality should be good in order to help us to maintain our good health. Mold can begin to grow in as little as twenty-four hours, and it can quickly spread. Time is of the essence when mold is involved. Mold spores can make you sick, and certain types can even kill you. The sooner we take action, the greater our chances of correcting the problem.



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