You've probably heard the saying that it's always better to prevent something from happening than to have to fix it later. The same is true for your home.
There are a few things you can do on a regular basis to prevent small problems from becoming bigger—and costing you more in the long run.
Below, we'll share some expert tips for home maintenance. Keep these in mind, and you'll be able to get the most out of your home while avoiding costly repairs.
Prepping for Winter Home Maintenance
You may not be able to do much about the weather, but there are definitely things you can do to get your home in order before Old Man Winter arrives.
Here are a few tips:
Clean your gutters and roof. This will help ensure that melting snow and ice don't cause any damage to your roof or gutters.
Inspect your windows and doors for cracks or leaks. You'll want to fix these before the cold weather sets in, as they can let in cold air and cause your heating bills to skyrocket.
Caulk any cracks or gaps around your windows and doors. This will help keep the heat in (and the cold out).
Insulate your attic, basement, and crawl spaces. This will help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Check your smoke detectors, gas leak detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they're working properly. You don't want to be caught off guard by a fire or gas leak this winter.
Check Your Appliances and HVAC Systems
One of the best ways to make sure you're getting the most out of your home is to regularly check your appliances and HVAC systems. Doing this helps you catch small problems before they turn into big ones, and it can also help extend the life of your appliances.
Here are a few tips for checking your appliances:
- Start by unplugging the appliance and checking the cord for any damage.
- Next, check the plugs, switches, and wiring for any signs of damage or wear.
- Check the door seals and gaskets for any tears or rips.
- Look inside the appliance for any signs of rust or corrosion.
- If you have a dishwasher, check the water inlet valve for any sediment or build-up.
And here are a few tips for checking your HVAC systems:
- Start by checking the filter to see if it needs to be replaced. A dirty filter will reduce the efficiency of your system.
- Check all vents and registers to make sure they're clear and open. Blocked vents will reduce the airflow and can lead to problems with your system.
- Check the unit outside for any signs of damage, such as rust or corrosion.
- If you have a cooling unit, check the coils for any dust or dirt buildup. This will reduce the efficiency of your system.
Regularly Inspect Windows, Doors, and Roofs
Windows, doors, and roofs are some of the most important aspects of your home that need regular inspection. Not only do they play a crucial role in keeping your home structurally sound, but they also play a big part in your home's appearance. That's why it's important to inspect these areas regularly and fix any problems as soon as they arise.
Some tips for inspecting these areas:
- For windows, check for cracks, leaks, and any signs of wear and tear.
- For doors, check for hinge and knob wear, cracks, and weathering.
- For roofs, check for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, and moss or algae growth.
Clean and Maintain Outdoor Areas
Maintaining the outdoor areas of your home is just as important as caring for what's inside. After all, this is where you'll spend your time during the warm summer months and often host family and friends.
Start by giving your lawn some TLC. Make sure to mow it regularly, water it adequately so it doesn't dry out, and fertilize it if necessary. Trim hedges and trees to keep them looking neat and tidy, and check regularly for any pests or critters that might be trying to invade.
Seal driveways, walkways, patios, and decks for extra protection against the elements. Doing so will also help to protect against fading due to exposure to sunlight. And cleaning outdoor furniture regularly can help keep it attractive and increase its longevity.
With a little time and effort you can make sure your outdoor space looks great all year round—no matter what mother nature throws at it!
Implement Security Enhancements
Securing your home against potential intruders should be a priority. After all, a secure and safe home is a happy home. Consider investing in motion-sensor lights, alarm systems, and video surveillance to increase the security of your property.
If you’re unsure of where to start, check out your local hardware store or consult with a security expert.
If you do have an alarm system installed, make sure to change the passwords regularly and keep them safely stored away. An added bonus of this kind of system is that it’s not only designed to protect against intruders but also against fire as well as water damage.
Something as devastating as that can cost thousands in damages—so it’s important to protect your property early on with these kinds of preventive measures.
Preparing Your Yard for Summer Weather
Getting your yard ready for the summer can be a big job, but it's worth it to have a well-maintained outdoor space. You’ll want to make sure your garden is trim and healthy, and that you have furniture and outdoor lighting that can withstand all types of weather.
First, start by removing any dead plants or weeds. Trim your lawn as needed, as well as any trees or shrubs. Fertilize the ground so that nutrients are available for your garden. Make sure you also inspect any sprinkler systems and patio furniture to ensure they are in good working order.
Finally, take some time to plan out a few activities for your yard. This could mean adding some games like cornhole or horseshoes, installing an outdoor lighting system so you can enjoy evenings in the yard, or even creating a makeshift kitchen by setting up a grill or smoker.
When the sun comes out, you’ll be ready to enjoy the warm weather with friends and family!
Conclusion
So, if you're looking to make a few home maintenance tweaks of your own, keep the following expert tips in mind. Not only will they help keep your home in great condition, but they'll also save you a lot of money in the long run.
- Regularly inspect your roof for damage, and make repairs as soon as possible.
- Inspect your windows and doors to make sure they're properly sealed and insulated.
- Check your outlets and appliances for worn cords and plugs, and replace them if necessary.
- Have your carpets and furniture professionally cleaned at least once a year.
- Regularly sweep and mop your floors, and vacuum your carpets.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year.
- Trim your trees and shrubs regularly, and make sure all outdoor lighting is in good working order.
Further Reading:
Don't Be Caught Off Guard: How to Spot and Fix Hidden Water Damage in Your Home