Florida has a humid, often-wet climate. So, in one way or other, there is almost always moisture around. However, this moisture creates a problem for certain parts of your home — rust. Particularly if you live in an older home, you might face risks of rust accumulation. And there are several older homes present in Saint Augustine.
If you don't have the ability to remove rust yourself, then you could face significant problems. Rust is a very dangerous occurrence if neglected. What can you do about it in the meantime?
The Risks of Rust
Saint Augustine homes have an average value of $258,400, and homes also have a median age of 50 years. Therefore, there is quite a lot of old real estate around (it is America's oldest city, after all). Older homes, however, typically require more care and maintenance. They might have greater quantities of parts that are likely to rust.
You might notice spots of orange rust on metal surfaces in and around your home. Rust develops on metal surfaces — notably iron and steel — and occurs through oxidation. It can occur anywhere metal, moisture and oxygen meet. Given that Saint Augustine has an average annual humidity level of 72%, then there is always a rust risk.
Metal parts throughout your home could develop rust, including:
- Iron piping
- Roofing
- Home joints or nails
- Appliances and utility systems
The problem is, rust is not harmless. Rust is a chemical reaction, and over time, it will corrode the metal structures on which it develops. Therefore, it might warp items, cause leaks, damage utilities and even compromise the home's structural integrity. That could lead to significant damage costs on multiple parts of the property.
Unfortunately, your homeowners insurance won't pay for rust damage. Rust almost always occurs slowly and over time. Therefore, it is neither unexpected nor unavoidable, which most insurable home damage must be.
All the same, you do have the opportunity to prevent rust through regular home maintenance.
- Make sure all your outdoor utilities receive regular maintenance. Professionals can likely clean these items as they service them.
- Regularly check exposed piping for signs of leaks.
- Make sure the seals around the home's windows or doors keep out as much moisture as possible.
- Consider home remedies to remove rust spots and keep corrosion risks low. However, never try to fix a major problem on your own.
There are multiple alternatives to pure iron or steel, such as galvanized metal or stainless steel, that can prevent rust buildup in the home. Therefore, if you ever need to replace a home's original fixtures, consider investing in these items. You want to make your home last well into your old age. Therefore, let rust prevention be your guide during these times.
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