Although everyone wants to be a homeowner, the cost of homeownership can catch novices by surprise. Insurance. Property taxes. Utilities.
However, these are just small peanuts compared to the first major repair that runs into the five figures.
The good news is that while some repairs are inevitable with age, many can be avoided with preemptive maintenance. Keep reading as we explore some of the best home maintenance tips for avoiding costly repairs.
Perform a Seasonal Clean
Don’t underestimate the importance of basic cleaning in home maintenance.
It may feel like “chores,” something that anybody can do, but it is a fundamental component of keeping the home in top condition.
Rent a residential dumpster to reduce clutter. This will limit the risk of pests/rodents and unearth any cosmetic issues hiding behind the “stuff.” Deep clean kitchen and bathroom floors to prevent staining and reduce the threat of mold/mildew. Wash windows for improved optical clarity, enhancing natural light flow for improved interior ambiance.
Inspect the Roof
Too many homeowners take an “out of sight, out of mind” approach to the roof. Unless there is an active leak or a section visibly missing, then it is business as usual within the four walls.
Unfortunately, many roof issues start small. By the time they become noticeable, it is too late to avoid a large-scale repair.
Hire an inspection company to get on top of your roof each year. They will be able to let you know if any shingles are showing signs of premature wear and advise on whether or not a cleaning is necessary. Be careful about DIY cleanings with a pressure washer. When performed incorrectly, they can knock away tile granules and/or degrade the roof’s protective coating, ultimately doing more harm than good.
Clean Gutters
When inspecting the roof, a gutter clean is a great way to kill two birds with one stone. If too many leaves and sediment get built up in the gutters, precipitation can back flow onto the roof, putting the substrate at risk of serious damage.
For roofs that use solar panels, pigeons can be a particularly tricky concern and may necessitate multiple gutter cleanings each year. Without the proper netting around the panels, pigeons will get under them to take advantage of a warm nesting opportunity. Their droppings and dead pigeons can clog the gutters at warp speed, so extra vigilance is essential.
Fortify the Drainage System
Water is a building block of life, but when left unchecked, it can cause all sorts of problems for your property.
In most cases, water damage is insidious. Sure, a major downpour can cause acute flooding and erosion, but the gradual, day to day trickle of water moving in the wrong direction ends up causing its own harm.
Consider upgraded foundation waterproofing. This uses a system of self-adhering mats that attach to the foundation walls. These permeable mats allow groundwater to pass through and be directed to a subterranean dimple drainage mat and away from the home. Replace a standard concrete driveway with a modern permeable paver system. This limits water runoff that flows over the top of concrete, reducing the risk of erosion to the surrounding landscaping.
Landscaping
Landscaping is about more than basic curb appeal. It is crucial for overall home maintenance.
Trim dead tree limbs to prevent strong winds from blowing them through a window. Rake dry grass from the yard to reduce the risk of lawn fires. Fill in holes and keep the exterior adequately sloped to prevent moisture from flowing back toward the home.
Check Windows and Doors
Transitional areas between the walls and window/door frames are a notorious point of weakness in the building envelope. When degraded, they can be a point of ingress for air and moisture. Not only will this wreck utility bills, but it can lead to mold and rot formation that proliferates to more serious damage.
Therefore, check the condition of the windows and doors with regularity. Use a silicone-based sealant to fill in any gaps or cracks in the joints. Replace any glass panes that become cracked. Consider applying trim around the frames for an additional layer of weather protection.
Change Batteries
Something as simple as changing batteries could help you save significant money. They will help ensure smoke detectors are functioning properly, creating a safeguard against property loss and personal injury in the event of a fire. Check the battery condition of all of your smart home systems to guarantee that they are operating efficiently. In addition, change filters in refrigerators, furnaces, dishwashers, and any other applicable area to promote ongoing functionality.
Easy and Low Cost Home Maintenance Tips That Will Save You a Bundle
A major home repair is undoubtedly one of the most unsavory aspects of homeownership. From seasonal cleanings to regular window inspections, consider any of the maintenance tips listed above to limit the risk of a major repair rearing its head. For more of the latest trends in homeownership, explore the resources at Opple House for ideas and inspiration today!