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Take Action Now Against These 3 Terrifying Renovation Hazards

Renovating your living space can be inspiring and rewarding. However, there are risks with home construction projects and even minor home repairs. Pay particular attention to these three potential dangers to keep your project trouble-free.

Flooding

Anytime you dig around your house at any depth, there is the possibility of hitting a water line. Before beginning any construction, you or your contractor should call 811. This free service will alert utility companies to mark all of the utility lines on your property.

Also take precautions not to rupture pipes that run through walls, floors or ceilings. Tracing pathways from the main water line to water outlets like sinks and toilets can give you a general sense of areas to avoid. For more precision,use a detector to locate pipes and studs.

Gas Leaks

Home renovation may cause or uncover a gas leak in your home. Gas leaks are hazardous and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or even explosions and fires. Besides your gas line, household and apartment explosions can also result from natural gas, propane and grills. Water heater malfunctions can also create dangerous conditions that could potentially lead to an explosion.

Gas leaks are most often caused by the improper installation of appliances and furnaces. Make sure to check the accreditation of all installers who are working with your appliances that connect to gas lines. It is also a good idea to ensure that carbon monoxide detectors, fire detectors, and fire extinguishers are on the construction site and working.

Airborne Dangers

Renovation in older homes can cause the release of many airborne irritants. Radon, a colorless and odorless gas that causes lung cancer, may have pooled in the lower floors of your home and could be released during construction. Sanding may release lead from 19th-century paints and asbestos is still often found in ceilings and pipe insulation. Fumes from paint and adhesives can be poisonous, and dust can cause severe problems for children with breathing problems.

To prevent these dangers, have your home tested for radon, lead, and asbestos before beginning construction. Isolate construction areas with plastic drapes. All workers should wear gloves, masks and eye protection. Thoroughly clean all construction areas after the job is completed.

Remember that you can protect yourself from experiencing any of these problems. Make sure to apply for all relevant permits, hire reputable contractors and ensure that they follow code rules. As Podium points out, the US home improvement industry is at $425 billion industry, so you are certain to find the people you need to help you. Finally, consider having your renovations reviewed by a professional home inspector. Doing these things will help you to make sure that you and your family can stay safe while you are renovating your house.

If you’re renovating your house to get it ready to sell and want our help, contact us today and we’ll get in touch!

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