This is a contributed post that contains affiliate links
Are there cracks in your home’s walls that you keep ignoring? Not all cracks are serious – a small crack in the plaster or drywall is unlikely to have many consequences and can usually easily be covered over. However, larger cracks are worth checking out and could have all kinds of negative effects. Here are just a few reasons to get those more prominent cracks checked out.
It could be costing you money in energy bills
Large cracks could be letting heat escape – or alternatively letting drafts in. As a result, you could find yourself reaching for the thermostat more often in colder weather. By fixing up these cracks, you could potentially save yourself money on your bills by consuming not needing to use so much energy.
They could be letting in water
There could also be a risk of water leaking in when it rains. Water could get into the cavity wall and cause damage or even leak through into your home. This could lead to structural damage, mould and unsightly damp patches. Cracks in the roof should be a particular concern when it comes to leaks.
They could be letting in pests
Did you know that a crack only has to be large enough to fit a pencil in for a mouse to crawl through? Cracks are common forms of entry for rodents and creepy-crawlies. It may even give pests access to the inside of your home’s walls where they can crawl around (your only option to get these pests out may then be to call pest control). All in all, cracks are not good if you want to keep the critters out.
Your home’s structural integrity could be at risk
Large cracks could be a sign of something worse – your home could be slowly falling apart. The most common cause is subsidence, which may require foundation repair. Poor quality home improvements such as extensions or badly-fitted windows can also cause cracks. Roots of trees and plants can also cause cracks is they’re growing too close to your home. All of this could be very dangerous if ignored as it could lead to walls and floors collapsing.
It could be negatively affecting your home’s value
It’s possible that cracks in the walls could also be reducing your home’s value. If you plan to sell your home in the near future, this could be something worth looking into. Visible exterior cracks are likely to have the most significant negative effect on your home’s value.
To assess the cracks in your home, the best option is often to hire a surveyor who will be able to determine the severity. You can then decide if any further action is needed. You may be able to seal up small cracks yourself cheaply, whilst others may require professional intervention.
