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3. Exterior Maintenance
Each month, check any rarely used or seen spaces, such as the attic or under a raised deck. Look for evidence of insects, rodents, rot, leaks or mold to identify developing problems early. If you have large trees on your property, be on the lookout for signs of weakness or decay. You may also want to check your garage door opener to ensure that it’s working properly. After heavy rain, check all levels of your home for water penetration. Water intrusion can lead to mold growth, which can pose serious health risks and damage your home’s structural integrity.
a. Roof
– Frequency: Every 3-5 years
– Inspect your roof periodically for damage or missing shingles. Professional inspections every 3-5 years can prevent costly repairs. If you notice roof tiles on the ground after a big storm call your roofer immediately! Regularly inspect your roof for icicles or ice dams that can damage your roof or melt into your home and cause water damage. If your roof tends to collect icicles or ice dams, purchase a roof rake and clear snow before it can melt or freeze into ice.
b. Gutters and Downspouts
– Frequency: Annually
– Gutters and downspouts direct rain and melting snow away from your home to help prevent water infiltration. Check your gutters for signs of leaves or other obstructions, and remedy any clogs or improper drainage. Call a professional for help clearing gutters or repairing any damage. This may become particularly important as part of your fall home maintenance when falling leaves can collect in your gutters.Clean gutters and downspouts in the fall and spring to prevent clogs and water damage. Use a professional to avoid injury!
c. Exterior Paint and Siding
– Frequency: Every 5-10 years
– Repaint or reseal your home’s exterior every 5-10 years to protect it from the elements.
d. Landscaping
– Frequency: Regularly
– Maintain your lawn, trim trees and shrubs, and clean up debris as needed. Hire professionals for major landscaping projects. Ensure wood mulch is at least six inches from the foundation or perimeter of your home! Close up the space between the exterior walls and flowerbeds using gravel. By doing so, you’ll make it harder for termites to invade your home while keeping an eye out for their mud tubes. In circumstances, letting weeds grow freely, or dead leaves and debris to collect, such as in flower beds, can actually create risk to your property; it can attract pests and even be a fire hazard. Consider spending time each month trimming and maintaining your landscaping to keep things tidy and help keep out unwanted pests.
e. Driveway
– Frequency: Regularly
– Check for cracks in your concrete sidewalk or driveway and repair as necessary. Small cracks can be repaired with crack filler; damage wider than half an inch needs a driveway patch. Reseal your driveway as needed every three years.
f. Exterior Vents for Gas Powered Systems
– Frequency: Regularly
– During the winter months be sure to keep the area around exterior vents clear of snow. If snow blocks the vent pipe, a safety switch may kick in and shut off your heater, which means you may be stuck calling a technician in the middle of the coldest day of the year. More importantly, however, you want to check for snow and ice to keep you and your family safe. Blocked vents can be a major fire hazard, as a furnace or stove could become overheated. In addition, carbon monoxide may be able to get into your home, and this gas is toxic. Be sure to keep any exterior generators clear of snow as well.
4. When to Use a Professional
a. Structural Issues
– Always consult a professional for structural repairs, such as foundation problems or major roof damage.
b. Electrical and Plumbing
– Hire licensed professionals for electrical and plumbing work to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
c. HVAC
– Regular maintenance can be done by homeowners, but complex repairs or installations should be handled by HVAC professionals.
d. Pest Control
– Call a pest control expert for infestations or ongoing prevention.
5. What Can Be Done by the Homeowner
a. Regular Cleaning
– Keep your home clean by dusting, vacuuming, and mopping regularly. Clean windows, blinds, and curtains to maintain a fresh look.
b. DIY Repairs
– Minor repairs like fixing leaky faucets, replacing door handles, and patching small holes can often be tackled by homeowners.
c. Landscaping
– Basic lawn care, weeding, and planting flowers can be done by homeowners with some gardening skills.
d. Laundry Exhaust Duct
– Regularly clean the lint filter in your dryer and inspect the exhaust duct to prevent lint buildup and maintain safety and efficiency.
Conclusion
Home maintenance is an essential part of homeownership that should not be overlooked. By following these home maintenance tips and knowing when to call in professionals, you can ensure your property remains in great condition, retains its value, and provides a comfortable and safe environment for you and your family. Taking proactive steps to maintain your home will pay off in the long run, both in terms of your enjoyment of your property and its resale value.
