That creak at night? Here's what it really is. As nights cool off and the heat soon kicks on, your house starts making new noises. Most have a simple explanation, but a few are worth a call. Here's how to tell the difference.
The short version: Creaks and pops are usually just your home adjusting to cooler temperatures. A bang when a faucet shuts off or a rumbling water heater is an easy fix. Scratching in the attic or water running when nothing's on deserves a call to a pro, soon.
Usually harmless: creaks and pops
Creaks and pops at night. Building materials expand and contract as temperature and moisture change. That's why you tend to hear light creaking or popping in the evening, as temperatures drop. It's typically harmless, according to 100 Mile Home Inspections.
Popping when the heat kicks on. Your ductwork expands and contracts too, and can pop as warm air moves through. That's generally harmless, but loud or excessive popping can mean a duct isn't secured well, so mention it at your next HVAC tune-up.
Easy fixes: bangs and rumbles
A bang when a faucet shuts off. That knock is called “water hammer.” It happens when a valve closes suddenly. A plumber can install a small device called a water hammer arrestor to quiet it, Angi explains.
A rumbling water heater. Sediment builds up in the bottom of the tank over time, trapping air bubbles that pop and rumble as the water heats. It isn't an emergency, but it's a sign your water heater needs attention. Flushing it or replacing it can help prevent leaks.
Creak, pop or problem? What those cool-night house noises usually mean.
Call a pro: scratching and running water
Scratching in the attic or walls. That's usually squirrels, rats or raccoons. Rodents can chew through insulation and wiring, which is a fire hazard, and wild animals can carry disease. Call a pest control professional rather than handling it yourself.
Water running when nothing's on. First, rule out the usual suspects: a running toilet, the dishwasher, the washing machine or sprinklers. If you still hear water with everything off, call a plumber ASAP. It could be a hidden leak.
When to call a pro
- Scratching in the attic or walls? Call pest control. Rodents can chew through insulation and wiring, which is a fire hazard.
- Water running when nothing's on? Call a plumber ASAP. It could be a hidden leak.
- Water heater rumbling? That's sediment. Ask about having it flushed, or start budgeting for a new one.
And if a sound is new, loud or getting worse, it's always worth a professional look.
Selling soon?
Handle these before you list, so they don't end up in a buyer's inspection report. Small fixes now can mean fewer surprises, and fewer repair requests, once you're under contract.
Thinking about selling this fall or next spring? Call or text 832-924-8150, or email [email protected], and let's talk about what to fix first.
This article first appeared in Houston at Home, an email newsletter with local news and a real estate perspective for Greater Houston homeowners.
This article is for general information only. For repairs, always consult a licensed professional. Ashauna Lindo, Real Estate Advisor, eXp Realty, LLC.
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