Home ownership is exciting, but it is also a huge responsibility. As a tenant, the maintenance of your home was the responsibility of your landlord, to make sure the water heater was serviced, the plumbing was in good order, and the exterior of the house was maintained. Now that you own your home, you are responsible for the maintenance of your home, and routine, preventative maintenance is the easiest and most effective way to ensure that you will enjoy your home for many years to come, and – if you decide to sell your home – it will go above market price.
1. The Exterior
1. The Exterior
Maintenance extends beyond the walls of your home. There are several areas outside the home that are areas of concern for any conscientious homeowner. First, look up. Are there any tree limbs overhanging your house? Fallen limbs can cause roof damage, so don’t wait for the next storm to remove those limbs for you. Call a tree service to trim back limbs that might be dangerous.
You should also take this time to inspect your gutters. Gutters can often become clogged with leaves and debris from overhanging tree limbs. A professional from Colorado Seamless Gutters, Inc. says this can cause water damage and stains in your home. Make sure to clean your gutters regularly.
Examine the ground around your home. Are there any areas persistently damp or wet? Wet areas around the base of the house can lead to rot, foundation damage, and can attract pests like termites and roaches. One way to alleviate this problem is by moving downspouts at least six feet out from the house’s exterior.
2. The Kitchen
You should also take this time to inspect your gutters. Gutters can often become clogged with leaves and debris from overhanging tree limbs. A professional from Colorado Seamless Gutters, Inc. says this can cause water damage and stains in your home. Make sure to clean your gutters regularly.
Examine the ground around your home. Are there any areas persistently damp or wet? Wet areas around the base of the house can lead to rot, foundation damage, and can attract pests like termites and roaches. One way to alleviate this problem is by moving downspouts at least six feet out from the house’s exterior.
2. The Kitchen
With ice makers, dishwashers, and faucets, your kitchen uses gallons of water a day, and a small leak over time can lead to a large amount of damage. Make sure that all hoses, fittings and pipes are up to date and still sealed. Always use metal tubing rather than plastic hoses for hidden things like the ice maker. They are more durable and less likely to rupture.
3. The Laundry Room
3. The Laundry Room
Maintenance is especially important as you combine both water and fire in one enclosed space. To head off the potential for catastrophe, there are a few things you can do. Always make sure any pipes and fittings are firmly attached to the washer and dryer by means of hose clamps. Just in case, place splash pans underneath the washer and laundry room sink, and always thoroughly clean the lint trap of your dryer before each use. It’s a good idea to check the exhaust vent of your dryer every few months for any buildup as well.
4. The Basement
4. The Basement
The basement is often the first place that potential problems with the foundation or pests. Always be on the lookout for cracks along the basement walls. Some settlement is normal, but if you notice that cracks are becoming larger, you want to call an expert to inspect for possible problems with your foundation. Keep an eye out for signs of excessive water leaks or termite tunnels. Routine maintenance does not have to be difficult. In fact, it is quite easy – if you stay on top of it. It sometimes helps to make a list or set monthly reminders on your smartphone or computer.
I think the home exterior is often times ignored. Remember that making a first impression is key in any industry where you are trying to sell something!
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