Protect Your Investment with These Home Maintenance Tasks
Congratulations, you have purchased a home! Now what? Home ownership can be stressful and overwhelming. But when it comes to owning the home, protecting your investment is the absolute best thing you can do. Let’s face it: Stuff breaks. Especially when you least expect it. But regular home maintenance isn’t about fixing the problems… it’s about preventing problems from happening in the first place.
Here is a list of home maintenance tasks, every property owner should do to maintain the quality of their home and protect their financial investment in real estate. Pro Tip: If you’re not sure what to do, it’s best to hire a qualified professional at least the first time so you can learn the proper way to perform these tasks!
Water Heater Maintenance: Periodically flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup. This helps maintain its efficiency and prolongs its lifespan.
Gutter Guards: Install gutter guards to prevent leaves and debris from clogging gutters. This reduces the risk of water damage to the house and keeps gutters in good condition.
Foundation Inspection: Regularly inspect the foundation for cracks or signs of shifting. Addressing foundation issues early can prevent costly repairs later. Take photos of cracks you see for later comparison to see if they are growing or staying the same.
Window Seal Inspection: Check the seals around windows and doors for drafts and leaks. Replace or reseal as needed to improve energy efficiency and prevent water infiltration.
Dryer Vent Cleaning: Clean the dryer vent and duct regularly to prevent lint buildup, reduce fire hazards, and improve dryer efficiency. There are many companies you can contact that will perform this service for you.
Sump Pump Maintenance: If your home has a sump pump, test it regularly to ensure it's working correctly. This helps prevent basement flooding.
Tree Root Maintenance: Monitor trees close to the house and trim roots that may be encroaching on the foundation or causing other damage.
Chimney Cleaning: If you have a fireplace, schedule regular chimney cleaning and inspections to avoid fire hazards and ensure proper ventilation. Some companies offer a membership with discounted rates so you never forget to schedule the cleaning.
Pest Prevention: Implement pest prevention measures to protect your home from termites, ants, rodents, and other pests that can cause structural damage.
HVAC Coil Cleaning: Clean the coils of your HVAC system regularly to improve its efficiency and prolong its life.
Attic Ventilation: Ensure proper attic ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and extend the lifespan of the roof.
Concrete Surface Sealing: Seal concrete driveways, walkways, and patios to protect them from moisture, stains, and cracks.
Fireproofing: Consider fireproofing your home with non-combustible building materials or fire-resistant coatings.
Electrical Panel Inspection: Periodically inspect the electrical panel for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose wires. Hire a professional electrician to address any issues.
Garage Door Lubrication: Regularly lubricate garage door tracks, springs, and hinges to prevent premature wear and ensure smooth operation.
Exterior Paint Touch-ups: Keep an eye out for chipping or peeling paint on the exterior of your home and touch up as needed to protect the siding.
Mulching: Use organic mulch in garden beds to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
Caulking Maintenance: Check caulking around bathtubs, sinks, and showers. Replace any worn-out or damaged caulk to prevent water damage.
Water Softener Maintenance: If you have a water softener system, regularly add salt or perform necessary maintenance to ensure it functions effectively.
Air Duct Cleaning: Schedule periodic air duct cleaning to improve indoor air quality and maintain the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Remember that consistent maintenance is key to preserving the value of your home. By implementing these tips in addition to regular maintenance practices, you can safeguard your residential real estate investment and enjoy a well-maintained and valuable property for years to come.
