When investing in a home, you’ll want to earmark funds for maintenance and upkeep.
Most people count their dwellings as their biggest single investment. While buying real estate can be a financially prudent move and lead to significant value appreciation, some of that growth could be jeopardized if your home isn’t properly cared for.
According to Zillow.com, the average home value in Waynesboro, Virginia is $291,373 — up 4.2% year-over-year. If you’re looking to get into the real estate market in Waynesboro, that average home price isn’t bad considering that the median price for a home in the U.S. in the final quarter of last year was $419,200.
Whether you already own a home in Virginia, want to sell your home and relocate, or wish to buy your first residence, proper upkeep is essential.
It’s not just about beautifying the interior of your home either. So, while renovating the kitchen, living room, bathroom, dining room, basement, or other interior spaces can create value and increase your pride of homeownership, so, too, can exterior improvement projects.
The sky’s the limit when considering exterior projects to tackle. One thing to consider is concrete work outside your home, which can be an eyesore and a safety hazard if in poor shape.
Consider these four signs that you should address the concrete sidewalks, steps, driveway, walkways, and other things on your property.
1. Visible Cracks
Visible cracks shouldn’t be ignored. Small cracks might not appear like a major deal. But remember that they won’t stay small forever. They will grow in length, width, and depth over time. Water, snow, and other things will get into the cracks and accelerate damage. If left unattended for too long, the cracks will enlarge and become safety hazards.
Slips, trips, and falls are not uncommon when properties aren’t maintained. The CDC reports that more than 25% of older people fall annually, but less than 50% of them inform their doctors. Meanwhile, the National Safety Council reports that 46,653 people in 2022 died in falls in the home and at the workplace. It adds that falls are the second most common cause of unintentional injury-related fatalities.
So, if there are visual cracks, get concrete work done. Don’t allow a small problem to get out of control. It could lead to injury and possibly a personal injury lawsuit if someone gets hurt and sues you.
2. Uneven or Sunken Areas
Another sign you need to contact a company specializing in concrete leveling and repair is uneven or sunken areas. Do you see parts of your steps, driveway, or walkway sinking or lifting? Don’t ignore it if you do.
It could be a telltale sign of poor installation, soil erosion, or tree roots pushing against the concrete. Uneven surfaces present safety risks and can be unsightly. Hiring a company specializing in such remedial work can help.
3. Frequent Repairs That Don’t Last
Do you find yourself performing DIY concrete repairs that don’t hold up? If efforts to fill potholes, patch cracks, or do other things to fix imperfections in your concrete don’t provide lasting results, bring in the experts. Temporary fixes will only waste your time and money. But a company that offers such services can deliver lasting solutions.
4. Step or Curb Separation
Yet another reason to get concrete work done is if you notice the outdoor steps separating from their original structure. That indicates the foundation has shifted or the steps weren’t installed properly. You can imagine how this issue may become a serious safety problem if not fixed.
When you notice any of these concrete problems, it’s essential to get the problem fixed. Dragging your feet won’t resolve the matter. It will, in fact, make the problem worse. Your best bet is to reach out to a company that can help put your concrete woes behind you.
Share
