Chimneys
Check the actual structures, and have chimneys swept regularly if you burn coal or wood. Using binoculars, look for:
- cracked or leaning pots
- damaged pointing (mortar)
- loose or missing flashings
- any sign of the stack leaning from the vertical.
Use professionals to fix chimney problems. Call a builder to fix masonry, and a chimney sweep to clear soot build-up in the flue.
Drains
Underground drains seldom cause problems. Above ground you can check for:
- cracked inspection chamber covers
- debris or standing water over inspection covers.
Remove debris from inspection chamber covers.
Eaves
Eaves woodwork - the vertical fascias to which the gutters are fixed, and the horizontal soffits that fill the space between fascia and wall - is exposed and prone to rot. Check that:
- the woodwork and any decorative finish are in good condition
- gutter bracket fixings are secure.
Cut out and replace any rotten woodwork, or get a builder to do this. Remove and re-fix gutter brackets as necessary.
External Walls
Damaged walls allow damp to penetrate, and subsidence can cause problems with the basic structure. Check that:
- brickwork and mortar (pointing) are in good condition
- rendering is not cracked or loose
- mastic round door and window frames is continuous and intact
- soil in flower beds is kept at least 150 mm (6 in) below the level of the damp-proof course in the house walls, to counter the risk of rising damp
- there are no zigzag cracks in walls.
Repair minor defects and call in a builder for bigger problems. Engage a surveyor to inspect and monitor major cracks.
Paintwork
Disintegrating paint can allow rot and insect attack to develop, especially in outside walls. Check that:
- paint is intact, and free from cracks and blisters
- there are no signs of wet rot - the wood would feel soft and spongy
- putty round windows is intact.
Strip defective paint back to bare wood, then prime and repaint. Cut out and repair areas of rot, using exterior wood filler or replacement sections of wood. Chip out and replace defective putty.
Windows & Doors
Windows and doors should open and close easily without sticking. Check that:
- handles and locks engage properly and operate smoothly
- glass is free of cracks.
Plane down, prime, and repaint any edges that stick. Reinforce sagging window joints with metal repair plates. Tighten loose hinge screws, and lubricate hinges. Replace cracked glass.
