Home improvement projects can be exciting, but they also carry risks you should be aware of. Here is a look at some of the biggest things that can go wrong during a remodel and what you can do to prevent them.
- Increased foot traffic in your home: With contractors and other service workers constantly coming in and out of your home, there is always a chance that something can go wrong. Your property suddenly becomes a construction site, which means there is always a chance that injuries may occur, or something could break or get stolen. The best thing to do to prevent mishaps is to carefully vet your contractors and service workers and be sure that they have the proper permits and insurance. It also helps to have someone home to supervise whenever work is being done.
- Flooding or electrical issues: If you decide to go the DIY route and do the work yourself, you run the risk of hitting a pipe or an important electrical line and doing permanent damage to your home. Most experienced contractors will be on the lookout for these types of problems, but if you hire a novice you may also be vulnerable to flooding and electrical damage. com suggests that anyone considering taking on a DIY project call 811 before starting a project. This is a service line that will inform you where important utility lines can be found and who to contact about any issues. This will save you from any destructive mishaps.
- Mold infestation: Mold infestation can be a big problem, especially in older homes and those in a damp climate. A study administered by the CDC estimated that around 70% of homes have mold behind their walls. Although not all mold is as toxic as others, it’s not exactly desirable and can cause adverse health issues if allowed to grow in large quantities. If you discover mold in your home while doing a renovation. Minor infestations can be taken care of with cleaning products and a dehumidifier, however, larger infestations may require the assistance of a professional.
- Asbestos exposure: Asbestos is another dangerous material that can be found in older homes. The material is a group of naturally occurring minerals that is resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion that was commonly used in building materials in the 19th and early 20th Centuries. Asbestos is rarely used today, but homes built before 1978 may contain dangerous substances. Be wary of any insulation, floor tiles, and other heat-resistant products that may have been installed before this year, because they may contain this harmful substance that is known to cause lung damage and cancer. If you discover what you believe to be asbestos in your home, you should contact a professional to have it removed and call your doctor to see if you or your family has suffered any adverse health effects. It’s also good to note that you may be entitled to compensation from the company that manufactured the products or anyone else who put you at risk. Companies that used asbestos in their products have since created trust funds to benefit the families of those impacted by the substance. The Mesothelioma Cancer Networkhas more resources available on what to do if you have been exposed to asbestos.