Whatever kind of property you live in, it's your own personal castle. You've worked hard for it, and you take pride in keeping it in great shape, inside and out. When your property looks good, you'll feel good about living there, but if something goes wrong with the structure of your home, it can be a very different story. You'll know about the importance of keeping your doors and windows in good condition, but here are three other essential areas that can cause real problems, and the warning signs to look out for.

Roof

Think about the valuable property inside your home, and then think about the valuable people inside your home. Your roof is the first line of defense that's keeping them warm, dry and safe, so it's essential that it remains in great condition, year after year. Our roofs take a battering from the elements, so after a storm, always carry out a visual check for signs of damage, such as missing slates or shingles. Signs of damage can be found indoors as well, most noticeably if you have a leak coming through the roof. Never ignore a leak, as swift action can prevent major damage from occurring at a later date. If you see missing slates, or find a leak indoors, call a roofing professional immediately.

Attic Duct

The attic duct is one of the most important elements of any home, and yet it's all too easily neglected – and that neglect can carry a big cost. Damage to your attic ducts can lead to cold and drafty interiors, and to poor quality air within your home, which can cause a serious threat to the young and old, and those with respiratory problems such as asthma. They are also areas where rodents can congregate, so look out for warning signs such as scurrying noises, or a home that feels stuffy. An attic duct inspection should be carried out regularly by experts such as Attic Projects Services; they can spot developing problems, and take restorative action that will save you money further down the line.

Walls

The walls of your property hold everything else together, but just like your roof, they're under attack every day of the year. You may have noticed our weather conditions becoming more extreme, and that puts your walls under severe pressure. Warning signs of damage to your walls can be a white, dusty appearance on the exterior surfaces known as efflorescence. Another sign to look out for is damp patches appearing on the inside of your walls, as this could indicate cracked or broken masonry that is allowing water through into your home. Damp and mold patches are not only unsightly, they can pose a major health risk too, so if you see them, you should seek specialist help.

Take care of your attic duct, walls and roof, and you can have a safe and reliable home for a long time to come. Regular inspections are the key to maintaining a property in perfect condition, but if you spot any of the warning signs above, you should call an expert in as soon as possible.

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