Experienced homeowners know that there are always home maintenance tasks on the to-do list. Owning a property is an ongoing investment in time, money, and creativity. It’s easy to put certain maintenance projects off in order to prioritize more interesting improvements. However, there are some home maintenance tasks you shouldn’t ignore. Make repairs now to save time and money in the long run.
Investigate Mystery Stains
Stains on your walls, ceilings, or floors don’t appear for no reason. If you notice a dark spot on the wall or wooden beams this often means water damage.
These stains may be caused by leaky plumbing, clogged rain gutters, or septic-tank issues. Water damaged wallpaper might be due to a leak several feet away from the spot on the wall. If you cannot find the source of a stain, ask for help from a professional.
Home Maintenance Involves Checking for Pests
On an annual basis, hire pest control experts to inspect your home. It might be difficult for homeowners to notice the damage, but a professional will quickly recognize signs of a problem. Hire an exterminator to spray and treat your home to force termites or other wood-destroying insects away from the structure.
Checking the Smoke Detectors is an Important Home Maintenance Task
Testing household smoke detectors should be a priority among your home maintenance tasks. On a monthly basis, test the detectors. Install fresh batteries yearly. Replace any detectors that aren’t operating as designed. These small devices may not take precedence in your mind, but they can save your family from harm during an emergency.
Maintaining Appliances
Clean or replace the HVAC filter when it’s clogged. Drain the water heater on a regular basis so that sediment doesn’t build up and reduce its efficiency. Vacuum the dust from the refrigerator’s coils. These home maintenance tasks help to extend the life of household appliances. Read the instruction manuals to understand what your appliances require for maintenance.
Home Maintenance Tasks Include Examining the Foundation
The foundation may not be easy to inspect, but it can harbor hidden issues. Ask for an expert’s opinion if you’re not certain what to look for. Seal tiny cracks to prevent termites and water intrusion. Larger cracks require further inspection by a professional.
A solid, level foundation is important for the structural integrity of the home. Staying up-to-date with foundation inspections will keep you informed of any developing problems.
Examine the Rooftop
A neglected roof puts the entire building at risk for damages. Depending on the materials, the roof should last for about 20 to 30 years. If your roof isn’t showing signs that it needs to be replaced, repairing a few broken or missing shingles is more cost-effective in the short term. With basic maintenance and repairs, you’ll prevent leaks into the home and prolong the roofing material’s lifespan.
Put these home maintenance tasks at the top of your to-do list to maintain the value of and protect your property. Set aside funds each month for larger purchases or repairs. Your home will provide years of comfort with regular home maintenance.
Bronze Star Home Inspections offers home inspection services to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.