18 Essential Home Maintenance Tasks To Dodge Hefty Repair Bills
After the initial thrill of acquiring your new abode subsides, the stark reality of maintenance dawns on you. Despite the allure of housing stability and the lucrative long-term investment appeal that drives many to purchase homes, it’s baffling how quickly they let their castle’s worth crumble due to neglect in regular upkeep. Mastering the right home jobs to sidestep exorbitant repairs could save you a small fortune as time rolls on.
Having spent years assisting grandparents and other kin in the art of home management, I’ve morphed into something of an aficionado in repairs and upkeep. Dabbling in the realm of buying and selling numerous rental properties has sharpened my instincts for spotting early signs of neglect. It’s nothing short of astonishing to see the potential plummet of a home’s value post-inspection, all because some simple maintenance tasks were overlooked.
To steer clear of these financial pitfalls, we’ve crafted a list of annual tasks designed to keep your dwelling robust, secure, and climbing in value. Venturing into unfamiliar maintenance territory might seem overwhelming—you don’t know what you’ve missed until it’s too late. But, stick with me and these maintenance tips, and you’ll sleep soundly knowing your home front is secure.
1. **Gutter Cleaning**: Birds might be charming guests in your backyard until they invade your gutters. It isn’t just foliage you need to worry about; even with gutter guards, regular checks are imperative to avoid blockages that can lead to serious water damage.
2. **Garage Door Lubrication**: Before you splurge on a new garage door mechanism, try some tender loving care with a thorough clean and lubrication of the springs and joints. It’s a swift task that can significantly reduce noise and enhance functionality.
3. **Clean Air Return & Duct Work**: Regular filter changes are a must, but an annual deep dive into your ductwork can prevent a world of dust and allergen-induced misery, especially in older properties.
4. **Dust Behind The Refrigerator**: Under and behind your fridge is a dust magnet. Neglecting this area can lead to clogged drain lines and, ultimately, a mini iceberg forming in your freezer—trust me, not the kind of ice you want.
5. **Clean Your Dishwasher Drain**: Dishwasher maintenance can be quirky due to varying designs. Keep those drains clear to prevent backups and odors that no scented candle can mask.
6. **Seal Bathroom Tiles**: Whether it’s a chic renovation or a feature from a past era, maintaining your tiles and sealing the grout can prevent costly water damage and mold growth.
7. **Drain Irrigation Lines**: Automatic sprinklers are handy until a frost hits. Annual drainage of these lines is crucial to avoid the havoc a frozen pipe can wreak.
8. **Inspect Your Wax Seal**: The unglamorous but essential toilet wax seal should be checked every few years to prevent leaks that lead to subfloor nightmares. It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it—or call a plumber.
9. **Pest Control**: Termites are the true terrors of the pest world. Always check for termite bonds and keep a vigilant eye through regular inspections.
10. **Check Weather Stripping**: Time wears down the seals on doors and windows, leading to drafts and leaks. A quick check can save you a bundle in energy costs.
11. **Pressure Wash**: Keep your home’s exterior clean from grime, moss, and dirt to prevent moisture penetration that can lead to structural issues.
12. **Soft Wash**: For older vinyl sidings, opt for a gentle scrub rather than a high-pressure assault to avoid damage.
13. **Trim Landscaping**: Overgrown greenery can be more than just an eyesore; it can endanger your home’s structural integrity. Regular trimming is essential.
14. **Flush Water Heater**: Know your water heater and its quirks. Regular maintenance can prevent a flood of problems.
15. **Clean Dryer Vents**: One of the leading causes of house fires is blocked dryer vents. Keeping these clean is a non-negotiable task.
16. **Inspect Roof & Chimney**: Regular checks can prevent leaks and extend the lifespan of your roof, saving you from astronomical repair bills.
17. **Check A/C Compressor**: Avoid the despair of a malfunctioning AC in the heat of summer with regular inspections.
18. **Inspect Foundation**: Ensure proper drainage around your home to safeguard your foundation from costly damage.
Remember, in our whirlwind lives, it’s easy to overlook the slow toll that neglect can take on a home. But with these annual chores, your diligent efforts today can prevent a financial headache tomorrow.
