We know home maintenance is a boring subject so why are we writing about it? Because you went through all that paperwork and spent so much money buying your house we want you to be able to enjoy it for a long time!
First of all, it saves you money in the long run. Trust us when we say that maintaining is much more cost-effective than repairing. If you’ve ever put off work on your HVAC system and had it break down on you in a Carolina summer you know we aren’t exaggerating!
Maintenance can also improve the value of your home and keep up the curb appeal which your neighbors will appreciate. Not to mention that a well-maintained home is also a safer home for your family!
Unfortunately, too many people make home maintenance projects reactive rather than a proactive choice. That means, they wait just a little too long and then have to deal with an emergency situation.
Here are a few home maintenance projects you shouldn’t overlook.
Gutters:
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors just a few inches of rain on a roof can produce several thousand gallons of water runoff. And where do you think that water goes? Down the side of your house if it’s not properly drained away from your home. Water is one of the most damaging things to a house. Check your gutters twice a year to make sure they are working, clear and don’t need readjustment.
The Roof:
This is another potentially expensive problem that can be avoided by periodically checking the roof at the same time you check your gutters. Keep an eye out for buckling, or curling shingles. Popped nails or mossy growth on the roof is another bad sign. Of course, if any asphalt or pieces of shingle are in the gutters then it’s time to have a professional take a look.
Window Seals:
Moisture, condensation, mildew, mold, and wood rot around a window are all signs the seal may be broken. Oh, the water doesn’t really bother you? You aren’t worried because it’s just a small piece of rot? That’s how it starts before those issues move into the wall where the cost of fixing it will be a whole lot more than a $4 tube of caulk you could have put around the seal when you first noticed the problem.
Foundation Cracks:
Foundation cracks aren’t necessarily a big red flag. Tiny cracks can develop naturally over time as a house settles but it is important to patch them up before they turn into large cracks. Large cracks can let water and moisture get into the foundation and cause big problems.
Dryer Vents:
A clogged dryer vent does more than just jack up your energy bill. It can cause a house fire. Excess lint can cause a duct to get clogged but so can little critters like nesting birds. If you notice that your loads are taking longer than normal to dry or you notice a strong odor coming from the dryer, that’s your sign to take a look at the dryer ducts asap! If you can’t reach the debris you can get a cleaning kit at your local home improvement retailer.
When buying a new home it is important to consider how much it will take to properly maintain the property. Factors like the age of the home and condition at purchase play into how much you can expect to spend.
Maintenance isn’t exciting but it is IMPORTANT so get to it!