Introduction
Though most people would really like to own waterfront property (let us, for now, not think about affordability and the wisdom of such a purchase and what not!) either because of the scenic beauty or the recreational part of it, there is a drawback nearly all of us see to having a home close to a river – the river might just damage the home. So, though for millennia river homes have gone together, because rivers provide water for agriculture, a route for transport and many other benefits, they can also cause sudden devastation and much loss of life and money.
History
The home river proximity is something to think about if you live in an area that is prone to floods and heavy rainfall. Rivers have, in fact, been known to destroy hundreds of houses in some towns, while inhabitants try to reduce damages by placing sandbags along the water.
It is simple enough to see why you must enquire before you buy a house and be cautious and alert after you buy one – the river might just rise enough to harm your property. Though when the two, a river home are close together, there will be a wall or some similar structure that will ward off damage, but this structure requires very strict maintenance and requires some expenses on your part.
Features
Mould is worrisome too - moulds are part of a group of micro-organisms called fungi that also includes mushrooms and yeasts. Even if there has been no extensive damage because of a river, the dampness from water can lead to the growth of fungus and mould in a river home, this happens especially when the dampness lasts long. This is a problem because moulds can cause health problems such as infections of many types, and also lead to decay of organic matter, such as wood that may form a part of your property. To treat moulds that grow in river home, there are many options and often, insurance also covers such damage. You have only to make sure that your place is checked for such growth periodically and then see if damage can be prevented or at least checked while still in the early stages.
Tips and comments
Another causer of worry for owners of river home is the roots of trees that grown near rivers. They are often said to be factors in damaging houses, but this is something of a myth. If your home's foundations are solid enough, the tree will look elsewhere for moisture. If you are very scared of the roots, you can always water the tree yourself so that it gets enough moisture and does not need to send out roots in all directions. Also, mulching helps, as the tree will be able to retain moisture better – you have only to shred some bark and leaves together and heap them about the tree trunk to ensure that the tree roots do not harm your river home.
A home near the river is a matter of pride for the owner. But this is only if the owner has the necessary resources, time and the inclination to maintain the property.
