Handymen Say These Are the Most Common, Hidden Home Problems You Don’t Realize You Have

“One thing that I think could get more attention from homeowners is the detection of early signs of leaks or water damage,” says Shu Saito, CEO and founder at All Filters LLC. “Small leaks around plumbing fixtures or under sinks can easily go undetected yet create mold growth, structural damage, and increase your water bills in very short order.” One way to protect your interior is to lay this super absorbent water sock in front of places that let water in. The garage door, basements, the sliding patio door, and even big windows can be problematic and difficult to seal. And they are great to have on hand in case of sudden leaks from pipes or water heaters. They quickly grab any water before it causes a problem. This is a pack of six.

“As for small-scale prevention,” says Saito, “I also recommend installation of waterproof mats or liners beneath sinks and around appliances like washing machines. These inexpensive solutions can catch leaks early and protect your floors from water damage.” If an appliance leaks or a pipe bursts, you can set these in the water and they will soak it up quickly. You can wring them out and keep using them until the problem is contained and then dry them and keep them for future disasters. This is a pack of five.

“Other commonly overlooked areas include ensuring that detectors — such as those for carbon monoxide and smoke — are working correctly,” says Saito. “Regular testing of these potentially life-saving systems can help avoid the worst of disasters, but somehow they often fall through the cracks when it comes to home maintenance.” Not all smoke alarms catch carbon monoxide leaks. If yours don’t, plug this carbon monoxide detector into an outlet. It will let you to the indoor humidity and temperature of your space and will alert you — visually and audibly — if your home has worrisome levels of this noxious gas.

If your smoke alarms are old or inadequate, upgrade to this smoke and carbon monoxide detector that looks for any problematic fumes in your home. It has a 10-year sealed lithium battery so you never have to change the batteries or be woken by a low-battery alarm. Replace the entire unit in 10 years. It’s easy to mount, can withstand high temperatures, and is corrosion-resistant.

“A smart thermostat can make a huge difference,” says Saito. This Google Nest thermostat lets you change the temperature with a turn of the dial or from your phone or by telling your smart home system to do it. It will automatically turn the heat or AC off when you leave the house and allows you to create a schedule that makes efficient use of your heating budget.

“Although these upgrades might be minor,” says Saiuto, “they add much value to your house and can save you from highly expensive repairs, while at the same time offering a healthier living space.”

“Mold and air leaks [are] probably two of the most common hidden issues,” says Saito. “Mold tends to grow in damp, poorly ventilated areas — such as a basement — or sometimes behind walls when leaks haven't been noticed.” A good dehumidifier pulls the moisture out of the air so the mold won’t thrive. This large room version sits in a corner keeping the humidity within a range you set. It has a large tank or can be set to empty into a drain for continuous operation. It comes in five sizes.

“On the other hand, leaky windows and doors can drive up energy costs silently by allowing conditioned air to escape and outdoor air to seep in,” says Saito. “To this end, I would recommend frequent home inspections, sealing any gaps around windows and doors, and installing dehumidifiers in damp areas.” Keep this weather sealing tape on hand so you can quickly stop a window draft when you discover it. It’s easy to apply, easy to remove, and offers a terrific seal against wind, rain, or escaping heat and AC.

If the draft is in your door frame, use this weatherstripping seal to stop that. Tape it around the door frame so the door seals tightly and it will stop your expensive warm or cold air from escaping. It will also make your home quieter and prevent sound from escaping into apartment hallways. And it gets bonus points for keeping bugs out. It comes in two colors.

“One preventive home upgrade I'd love to see more homeowners consider is improved attic insulation and ventilation,” says David Shepherd, owner of Reliable Roofing Restoration. “Proper insulation not only helps with energy efficiency but also extends the life of your roofing by reducing internal temperature swings that can cause premature wear. Thoroughly addressing these areas can stave off moisture issues, which often lead to the dreaded mold growth or compromised structural integrity.” Insulating can be as easy as installing this foam core radiant barrier to the ceilings and exterior walls of the attic. This comes in a bunch of different lengths and widths, so you can find the perfect one for your space.

In keeping with Shepherd’s advice, a downspout extender for your gutter is a smart idea. Directing water away from the bottom of your gutter is a smart way to prevent any water damage from happening to the foundation of your house. This popular downspout extender can be put underneath any gutter (or moved depending on your needs), and looks like it’s made of gray stone. It’s nearly 22 inches in length to redirect water away from your foundation.

“Neglected gutters can lead to water pooling and severe foundational issues,” says Shepherd. “I recommend considering a gutter guard,” he says, which helps “to reduce the frequency of maintenance and ensure water flows freely to the designated drainage areas.” These mesh gutter guards are polypropylene so they are easy to work with, durable, and rust-resistant. They will keep dirt and leaves out of your gutters for years.

“Many homeowners overlook the significance of routine gutter cleanings and ensuring the gutter system is correctly directing water away from the home,” says Shepherd. This chore is easy to add to your to-do list but easier to accomplish if you own this telescoping gutter cleaning wand that attaches to a hose and reaches up to 70 inches so you can clean out those gutters without climbing a ladder or braving the roof.

Aaron Lipman, owner of Two Brothers Foundation Repair, reiterates what many handymen have shared for this article: “Poor ventilation in crawl spaces is a silent issue that can lead to excess moisture, mold, and even wood rot. This often goes unnoticed until it causes significant damage.” He says, “I recommend homeowners check for musty smells or dampness under their home. Installing a vapor barrier or dehumidifier can prevent moisture buildup and extend the life of the foundation and flooring above.”

This vapor barrier is easy to lay down in your crawl space and will prevent leaks from pipes or moisture from the ground from getting into your home. This comes in four different size and thickness combinations, so you can choose the perfect one for your needs.

Lipman also shares, “Water leak detectors are fantastic for preventing expensive repairs. These small devices can be placed under sinks, near water heaters, or in crawl spaces, and they alert you as soon as they detect moisture. I have seen cases where a simple detector prevented a minor leak from turning into a major flooring or foundation issue.” This smart water sensor is a great purchase, and comes with a sensor and a plug-in receiver that connects it to your Wi-Fi. You can set up notifications to your phone in case of any leaks, but this sensor also emits a 100-decibel alarm, so you’ll be sure to hear it.

“For preventative upgrades, installing LED lighting throughout the home is a small but impactful change,” says Tyler Tranni, owner of Tranni Home Remodeling. “LEDs consume less energy and last longer, reducing both electricity bills and maintenance needs,” he says. These LED light bulbs are also smart, which make them a hugely cool upgrade for your home. Not only will you be saving energy (and thus money), but these can be adjusted using an app on your phone to display one of 16 million color options. This is a pack of four.

Tranni says, “Clogged drains and pipes are another common issue. These can cause backups or even burst pipes if they’re not addressed.” Take a few preventative measures for keeping your drains clear. This drain catcher is popular and can fit into your standard-sized bathtub drain. (There is also a version for your kitchen or bathroom sink.) This easy-to-remove drain hair catcher will catch hair and debris from going down your pipes and clogging them.

“I also see a lot of HVAC systems that haven’t been maintained properly,” says Andriy Boyko, owner of A.O. Handy Inc. “Something as simple as changing the air filter regularly can make a big difference in how well your system works and how long it lasts.” Assess your HVAC and identify which filter will work for it. This Filtrete replacement filter comes in more than 15 different sizes to fit many units, and is designed to trap unwanted air particles from circulating in your air. Another piece of advice from Boyko? “It’s worth setting a reminder to check these areas regularly to avoid bigger headaches down the road.”

“There are definitely a few sneaky problems that homeowners don’t always notice,” says Boyko. “Mold is a big one. It can grow in damp basements, behind walls, or under sinks, and by the time you spot it, it’s often spread further than you realize. If you notice a musty smell, it’s worth investigating right away.” This digital moisture meter is a nice gadget to have on hand, and makes it simple to test if moisture may be in your walls. This has two modes, one for drywall and one for wood, and can test and easily read out the moisture levels in walls, studs, drywall, and even floors.

“Another issue is air leaks, especially around windows, doors, and in the attic. These leaks aren’t always obvious, but they can make your HVAC system work harder and drive up your energy bills,” says Boyko. It’s always smart to put some insulation between your attic and the area of your home that you want heated and cooled. This insulation cover goes on the attic stairway, preventing air from leaking through your attic door.

“Another common issue is foundation cracks,” says Boyko. “What starts as a small crack can quickly turn into a bigger, more expensive problem.” If you notice a crack in your foundation or basement, always contact a professional. But it can be helpful to have an on-demand solution to prevent any water from leaking into those cracks while you wait. This foundation and basement sealant is a popular choice — just clean and dry the surface, brush on this sealant, and let it dry. This formula also has a rubbery texture when it dries, which makes it flexible and easy to use.

“Homeowners often ignore slow drains, which can escalate into full-blown pipe blockages, costing $500-$1,000 to fix,” says Josh Mitchell, an HVAC and plumbing technician with AirConditionerLab.com. When it comes to drains and pipes, prevention is the name of the game. Invest in a drain hair catcher like this one, which will prevent hair and debris from coming down your pipes. You’ll regret not having one when your pipes start to drain more slowly.

“Mold thrives in damp areas like basements, bathrooms, and attics,” says Mitchell. “It often grows unnoticed and can lead to health problems. Regularly inspect high-moisture areas and consider using a humidity monitor to keep levels below 60%.” In that regard, having a hygrometer nearby is a super smart idea. This hygrometer from Govee can be wall-mounted or stood on any surface, and easily reads both the humidity levels and temperature inside your space. You can even monitor the levels via a connected app on your phone. This is also a pack of three so you can disperse them throughout your house.

“Drafty or poorly sealed windows increase energy bills by 25-30% annually,” says Mitchell. “Homeowners should check for cold drafts during winter or condensation between panes.” Check around your windows for any cold drafts that might be coming in. This window-sealing tape is great and can be trimmed to size to fit over the cracks in your windows. This features a strong rubber adhesive that adheres it to your window frame, blocking any cold air from coming through (or heat from getting out!). It comes in black, gray, and white, so you can match your woodwork.

It may seem like an investment, but having a great dehumidifier that you can control from wherever you are is such a smart purchase. Chris Stevenson, professional roofer with 730 South Exteriors, says, “Another thing I see a lot of is hidden mold in basements, attics, or behind walls. These problems can develop in areas with high humidity or poor ventilation, and the signs aren’t always obvious.”

This smart dehumidifier can pull up to 2 gallons of water from the air in your space before you have to empty the tank. It’s Energy Star efficient, and tracks both the humidity levels and temperature of your space, both easy to read from wherever you are via the associated app. Set your target humidity level for the space, and it will remove water from the air until you hit that level.

“Another product I recommend is roof sealant. It’s a great way to seal the areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights, where water often gets in,” says Stevenson. “These are small investments that make a big difference in keeping water where it’s supposed to be — outside.” This roof bonding sealant can be installed similarly to the way you might apply grout around your tub or toilet. You can use it around your chimneys, vents, gutters, or roof — the waterproof formula will prevent water from getting in or out of those areas.

“Dirty or clogged ducts can severely affect airflow and indoor air quality,” says Allen Chennault, owner and founder of AC's Heating & Air LLC. “I recommend scheduling a professional duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort.”

In between cleanings, keep an eye on the quality of your air via this air quality monitor. It will monitor particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide levels, and even the humidity and temperature of your space. Use the associated app to view your home’s air quality levels — you can even get multiple monitors to monitor multiple rooms in your home, all from the same app. If you notice a problem with your air quality, consider scheduling another duct cleaning.

One simple problem you might have? “Most homeowners fail to change the batteries of the detectors or even check them which poses risks to the safety of the house,” says Chennault. For detectors and other home emergencies, this battery super value pack is such a good buy. It features 108 batteries, with a mixture of AA, AAA, C, D, and even 9-volt batteries. You’ll have them on hand the next time your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors run out of batteries.

If you’re stocking up on back-up batteries so your detectors are always working, this battery organizer is also a great purchase. It can hold 45 AA, 25 AAA, four 9-volt, eight C, six D, and five flat batteries, so you can keep your entire battery stash here. But what really makes it great is that it comes with its own battery tester, so you can ensure the batteries that you do have around have plenty of juice for when you need them.

“Check the pipes for leaks. If a pipe clogs frequently, don’t keep pouring drano down it. Call a professional or buy a snake,” says Tom Monson, owner of Monson Lawn & Landscaping. This drain snake is a good one to have on hand when your pipes seem clogged. It comes with four 18-inch snakes, which each fit into the convenient handle. Rotate the handle and lower the snake into your drain. It’ll grab the hair or debris clogging your pipe, and can be disposed of afterward. It’s no wonder this basic home repair item is so popular.

“Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize they may have hidden issues like mold growth, which can develop in damp, poorly ventilated areas such as basements or behind walls. To address mold, it's important to control humidity levels with dehumidifiers and address any leaks immediately, often with the help of a mold remediation specialist,” says Peter Duncanson, founder of ServiceMaster Restore, a home and business restoration services company.

As a preventative measure to prevent having to call professionals, keeping a dehumidifier in your space is always smart. While larger more industrial dehumidifiers are smart purchases for big spaces like your basement or attic, you can also work to lower your humidity levels with a portable dehumidifer like this one. The benefit to having a lighter-weight model is that you can move it from room to room easily whenever you need. This can pull up to 35 ounces of water from your air, has a quiet mode to minimize noise, and has an automatic shut-off feature. Use this in tandem with your hygrometer to determine which rooms of your house are the most moist, and remove moisture before mold starts to grow.

“Another common problem is air leaks around windows and doors, which can lead to higher energy bills and discomfort,” says Duncanson. “For air leaks, homeowners should check seals on windows and doors, and consider caulking or replacing weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency and comfort. Regular inspections can help catch these issues before they become more serious.”

Take a look at the weatherstripping on your doors and windows. If it’s been a minute since you last replaced them, there’s a good chance your doors and windows are leaking air in and out of your space. This adhesive weatherstripping can be cut to size, and easily sits inside the jamb of your doors and windows.

Ryan Meagher, a contractor with BVM Contracting, recommends “installing leaf guards (to prevent accumulation of debris in the eavestroughs) in tandem with extending downspouts away from the home.” This leaf guard goes over the downspout to prevent leaves and debris from clogging your gutter. This pack of eight make it easy to ensure all of your gutters are protected. Meagher has one more piece of advice: “Bonus points if you make sure that your entire foundation has a positive slope away from your foundation to allow water to drain away from the home.”

In keeping with Meagher’s advice, these extensions are easy to install and suitable for most standard-sized gutters. The spouts are made of a high-quality ABS plastic that is durable, while their pipes are made from a flexible PE material that won’t snap, break, or develop holes. They’ll extend your gutter drain anywhere from 21 to 68 inches long, so you can direct water far away from your foundation.

“If homeowners can ensure that the grading around their home is sloping away from the home (versus into the home) this will go a long way to preventing water infiltration into a basement or crawlspace,” says Meagher. “It is an easy fix too, all you have to do is buy some soil and install it against your home's foundation and slope it away from your home. It is a lot more cost-effective to do this versus waterproofing the foundation wall, so start with this measure then add waterproofing if needed.”

This lawn soil is easy to lay down wherever you want to build your slope — and you can use the remainder to fill in any uneven spots in you backyard.

“I highly recommend specifically for water leaks, waterproof sealants and pipe insulation,” says Eduard Mirzoian, CEO of Restorerz. “Waterproof sealants, especially those designed for windows, doors, and roof flashing, provide an essential barrier against water infiltration.” While the waterproof roofing sealant earlier on this list can work for this, as well, this handheld silicone sealant is great for getting into small areas like around faucets, pipes, or in tight areas where you can’t get the leverage to use a bigger bottle.

In keeping with Mirzoian’s advice to insulate your pipes, this foil insulation is easy to wrap around pipes. It features 10 millimeters of foil insulation that wraps around your non-insulated pipes. This wrap is 6 inches by 25 feet, so you’ll have plenty for any piping you want to insulate, and it can even be used for other purposes like insulating your attic, windows, or garage.

“I always tell homeowners that two things that are absolutely needed for safety are, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers,” says Mirzoian. This fire extinguisher is a great buy and can easily sit in your kitchen or garage in case an emergency strikes. This is a single fire extinguisher, but it also comes in a pack of two, four, and six extinguishers, if you need to outfit a bigger space.

“I'm a former firefighter, so this question takes me back to items that are not roof related,” says Jason Verbeke, operations manager at The Allard Roofing Company. He recommends “reflective mailbox numerics and oversized house numbers for easy notification.” This easy-to-install house number comes with built-in LED lights that have a dusk-to-dawn sensor. When the sun sets, the light will turn on, illuminating your house number for any emergency personnel (or friends and family), to easily find.

Another great solution to your house number being hidden is to add a reflective number to your mailbox. These reflective numbers make it easy to see your house number, even in the dark. This comes with five sets of 2-inch long stickers of all 10 integers, so you can build your home number. Then adhere it to a visible part of your mailbox, and any emergency trucks or first responders will more easily be able to find your home at night.

Verbeke also advises, “Leaks are very rarely caught in the early stages, especially if hidden in a closet or room less frequented. Set up a monthly or even bi-weekly schedule to just walk your entire home and look up. Early detection could save you thousands in the end.” The best way to remember it is time for a dedicated walk through of your house is to write it down on a schedule. Note it on this whiteboard on your fridge or set a reminder on your phone, and you’ll be sure to remember to walk around and check for any potentially dangerous water leaks.