Homeownership comes with a wave of responsibilities, not least of which is keeping up with home maintenance. To keep your house running smoothly, it is pertinent to embark on a number of crucial tasks, trusted by experts and experienced homeowners. According to a report by the National Association of Home Builders in 2019, about 54% of homeowners allocate 1-2% of their home’s value annually on routine maintenance. Issues can quickly escalate into sizable problems if overlooked, that might drill a hole in your wallet.
Cleaning Your Gutters
Your gutters play an essential role in ushering rainwater away from your home. Over time, leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate, causing blockages. Cleaning your gutters twice annually, as part of your home maintenance tasks, prevents water from pooling around your home, which can lead to massive damages to the foundation.
Tending Your Garden
While it may seem purely aesthetic, taking care of your garden is absolutely essential. Overgrown plants can damage property and pose a risk during severe weather conditions. Dedicate time regularly to trim overgrown branches and pull out weeds to prevent them from spreading.
Checking the Roof
Undetected roof issues are a common cause of unnecessary home repair costs. Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles at least once a year. Also look out for any leaks in the attic that could indicate damages to the roof.
Inspecting the HVAC System
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system require regular inspections for optimal performance. Change filters routinely and hire professionals to inspect and clean coils annually. This ensures optimal comfort and lowers energy consumption.
Flashing Tightening
Flashing is metal sheeting used around vents and chimneys to prevent water from seeping in. Over time, flashing can become loose due to weather elements. Regularly check and tighten loose flashing to prevent leakages and subsequent damages.
Inspecting the Water Heater
Over time, sediment may build up in your water heater, causing it to work less efficiently or even catastrophically fail. Draining and inspecting your water heater annually can detect potential issues and improve its longevity.
Cleaning the Chimney
Creosote, a byproduct of burned wood, accumulates in your chimney over time. It’s highly combustible and can lead to house fires if not cleaned. Employ a professional chimney sweep once a year to avoid fire hazards.
Checking the Basement
The basement often receives little attention, but it plays a significant role. Regular checks for dampness or leakages can prevent structural damages. Additionally, one should inspect the sump pump function regularly if your home has one.
Appliance Maintenance
Regularly cleaning and inspecting your appliances also plays a part in home maintenance. This includes descaling coffee machines, deep-cleaning the oven, and cleaning out dryer vents to prevent fires.
Pest Control
Uninvited guests, like pests, can wreak havoc on your home. Conduct pest control regularly to keep these nuisances at bay and protect your home from potential infestations.
Maintaining Smoke Detectors
A fully functional smoke detector is essential for every home’s safety. Test the detectors monthly to ensure they’re still working and change batteries once a year. Monthly testing ensures quick detection and reaction in case of a fire.
Window Caulking
Caulking around windows helps improve energy efficiency by sealing air leaks. But, over time, the caulk deteriorates. Frequently inspect and recaulk your windows as needed to maintain a comfortable indoor climate.
Cleaning Drains
Clogged drains could escalate into plumbing disasters. Regularly clean your drains to remove buildup and detect any issues like leaks early on.
Repainting Your Home
While repainting your home might seem cosmetic, it plays a key role in preserving your home’s exterior material. Regular painting protects your home from weather elements, like sun and rain, extending its life significantly.
Your Takeaway
Maintaining your home can sometimes feel like a never-ending chore but remembering these crucial tasks make certain you are on top of it all. Therefore, make sure you have this game plan tucked neatly under your arm. Ultimately, regular maintenance protects the value of your investment – keeping your house feeling like home.