Source: Pexels
Owning a house is a rewarding experience, but not one that ends with the purchase. It comes with many maintenance responsibilities that can pile up if not addressed correctly. But if you’re a new homeowner used to landlords or property managers taking care of upkeep, it can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right mindset, staying on top of everything is simple. Here are seven Tips to help you keep up your home.
- Regularly Clean your Gutters
Gutters are an essential part of your house’s drainage system. They prevent rainwater from seeping into your walls, causing damage to your house’s foundation. Cleaning your gutters regularly ensures they are debris-free, which can cause clogs and blockages. In addition, it’s much easier to clean gutters before they get clogged or blocked, so a regular monthly schedule will keep things from getting out of hand.
- Check for water leaks.
Water leaks can cause a lot of damage to your house. They can cause mold and mildew to grow, which can harm your health. Check your pipes and faucets regularly for leaks, and fix them immediately. You can also check your ceilings for water leaks. Even if literal drops of water aren’t coming from your ceilings, you might have water damage or mold in your house that can point to a possible leak. Check consistently, especially after storms.
Homeowners also often overlook the importance of having a professional inspect their water heater regularly. However, this is another essential to keeping your home in top shape and avoiding potential problems down the line. Not only will a professional inspection ensure that your water heater is running as efficiently as possible but they can also diagnose any existing issue and make the water heater repair right away. Additionally, having someone check your system can help keep your utility bills lower by optimizing the performance of your fuel source.
- Test your smoke detectors.
Smoke detectors are essential in keeping your house safe from fire. Test your smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are working correctly. The worst time to find out your smoke alarm isn’t working is when you need it most.
- Maintain your HVAC system.
Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in keeping your house comfortable. Therefore, it is vital to maintain it regularly, such as changing air filters and having it serviced annually. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your HVAC system and save you money in the long run.
- Keep your appliances clean.
Keeping your appliances clean keeps them looking good and extends their lifespan. Clean the coils on your refrigerator, remove lint from your dryer, and clean your oven regularly to keep them running efficiently.
- Inspect your roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your house. It makes your house into a house. It protects you and your family from the elements, and damage can cause many problems. Therefore, it’s essential to know if you need roof repair from storm damage before it gets worse. Here are some common types of roof damage and what to look for.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are a common type of roof damage. They can be lost to strong winds, storms, or poor installation. If you notice missing shingles, it is vital to replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into your roof.
Cracked or Damaged Shingles
Cracked or damaged shingles can be caused by hail, heavy rains, or age. If you notice cracked or damaged shingles, replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into your roof.
Leaks
Leaks are a common problem with roofs. They can be caused by missing shingles, cracks in the foundation, or damaged vents. If you notice a leak, locate the source and fix it promptly to prevent water damage to your house.
- Keep your yard tidy.
A tidy yard looks good and helps keep pests and rodents away. Trim your trees and bushes regularly, and remove any debris from your yard to prevent pests from making a home there. It’s much easier to mow the grass after a week of growth than after two months. Or if you have a garden, it’s easier to pick out weeds as they sprout than spend a weekend covered in dirt after a year of neglect.
Conclusion
Keeping up with your home’s maintenance can seem challenging, but it’s worth it. When you’re enjoying an extra weekend, not pulling weeds, you’ll feel glad you kept up with everything. A home is a big responsibility that pays off both in the short and long term. Make a schedule to routinely check up on your roof, yard, pipes, and devices to ensure your house is in perfect order.
