Home maintenance often gets put on the back burner because it’s not as exciting as a kitchen renovation or new addition. But regular upkeep is crucial to maintaining your home’s value and preventing small problems from turning into big (and expensive) repairs down the road.
Here are eight smart ways to do home maintenance:
1. Keep up with yard work
Your yard is the first thing people see when they pull up to your house, so it’s important to keep it looking neat and tidy. Mow the lawn regularly, trim shrubs and bushes, and remove any dead trees or branches. Doing this will not only make your home look nicer, but it will also prevent potential accidents and discourage pests from taking up residence.
2. Clean your gutters
Gutters play an important role in protecting your home from water damage, so it’s important to keep them clean and free of debris. Every few months, use a ladder to remove any leaves, twigs, or other buildups from your gutters. Doing this will help ensure that they’re functioning properly and won’t get clogged the next time it rains.
3. Check for drafts
Drafty windows and doors can let in cold air and drive up your energy bills, so it’s important to seal them up. Use weatherstripping or caulk to fill any gaps around doors and windows. You can also install storm doors and windows to further reduce drafts.
4. Inspect your roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Every few months, do a visual inspection of your roof to look for any missing or damaged shingles. If you see any problems, call a professional to have them repaired or replaced.
5. Clean your chimney
If you have a fireplace, it’s important to clean your chimney on a regular basis. Soot and creosote can build up in the chimney and create a fire hazard. To clean it, hire a professional chimney sweeper to come out and remove the buildup.
6. Check your smoke detectors
Smoke detectors are an important part of any home safety plan, so it’s important to check them regularly to make sure they’re working properly. Test the batteries at least once a month, and replace them as needed. It’s also a good idea to vacuum around the detector to remove any dust buildup.
7. Service your HVAC system
Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable, so it’s important to have it serviced on a regular basis. Once a year, call a professional like DUCTZ to clean the ductwork and inspect the equipment. This will help ensure that your system is running efficiently and won’t break down when you need it most.
8. Clean your dryer vent
Lint buildup in your dryer vent is a fire hazard. To prevent this, clean your vent every six months or so. You can do this yourself with a vacuum and a brush attachment, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
In Closing
Following these tips will help you keep your home in top condition and prevent small problems from turning into big ones. Regular maintenance is crucial to preserving your home’s value and ensuring that it will last for years to come.
