Regular Home Maintenance - Why It Matters

Published on 14 October 2024 at 10:52

Owning a home is one of life’s biggest investments, and regular maintenance is the secret to keeping that investment strong. Whether you're planning to sell your home in the near future or just want to keep it in top shape, staying on top of upkeep can increase the value of your property and prevent costly surprises. But why is it so important? And how do you know when is it time to call a professional? 

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

  1. Preserving Property Value: Routine maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major problems. By tackling repairs before they escalate, you avoid costly fixes that can decrease your home’s value. Prospective buyers are more likely to offer competitive prices if they see the home is well-maintained.

  2. Reducing Future Repair Costs: A small leak or crack may not seem like much now, but over time, it can lead to extensive damage. For example, neglecting roof maintenance in the spring could lead to major water damage that’s far more expensive to repair. Proactive care saves you money in the long run.

  3. Supporting Negotiations: If you can show that you've kept your home in top shape with a documented maintenance history (as mentioned in our previous blog post on keeping detailed maintenance records), it not only reassures potential buyers but also gives you leverage during negotiations. Buyers may be willing to pay more knowing they are getting a property with fewer hidden issues.

When to Call a Professional

Some maintenance tasks are simple enough to handle on your own, but others require the expertise of a professional. Knowing when to call in help can save you time, ensure safety, and prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.

  • Roof Repairs: While you might be able to spot loose shingles or debris, repairing or replacing parts of your roof is best left to the pros to avoid injury or further damage.

  • Plumbing & Electrical: Any work related to your home’s plumbing or electrical systems, especially if you notice leaks or faulty outlets, should be handled by a licensed professional.

  • HVAC Maintenance: A professional should inspect your HVAC system at least once a year to ensure it’s running efficiently. Regular tune-ups help avoid breakdowns, improve energy efficiency, and prolong the system’s lifespan.

  • Asbestos Testing: If you're planning any renovations in an older home, it’s essential to test for asbestos before proceeding. 

What Does A Maintenance Checklist Look Like?

We've put together a checklist to help you stay on top of your homes upkeep. Follow these by the season and keep detailed records of any repairs or upgrades you make throughout the year and you're all set!

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Spring cleaning, repairing winter damage, and preparing for warmer months.

  1. Roof Inspection: Check for winter damage like loose shingles, leaks, or debris.
  2. Gutters and Downspouts: Clean out leaves, twigs, and dirt. Ensure they’re directing water away from your foundation.
  3. Windows and Screens: Inspect and repair or replace damaged screens. Clean windows and check for air leaks or drafts.
  4. Exterior Paint: Look for peeling or cracking paint. Consider repainting to protect your home from moisture.
  5. Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs away from your home. Refresh flower beds and ensure proper grading around your foundation to prevent water damage.
  6. HVAC System: Schedule a service for your HVAC system to prepare for summer use. Change air filters.
  7. Foundation and Basement: Check for cracks or water leaks and fix them early before they become major issues.

Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Outdoor projects and cooling efficiency.

  1. Air Conditioning: Ensure the AC is running efficiently and clean out debris around the unit.
  2. Inspect the Deck and Patio: Check for loose boards, nails, or rot. Power wash and reseal, if necessary.
  3. Examine Fencing and Gates: Fix any broken or damaged areas.
  4. Plumbing Check: Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks.
  5. Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Replace batteries if needed.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Preparing for cooler weather, ensuring heating systems are working, and outdoor cleanup.

  1. Gutters and Downspouts: Clean out again to prepare for falling leaves. Ensure water is still being directed away from your home.
  2. Inspect the Roof: Check for any missing shingles or early signs of damage from summer storms.
  3. Heating System: Schedule an inspection and tune-up of your furnace or heating system. Change the filter.
  4. Chimney and Fireplace: Clean and inspect your chimney. Ensure your fireplace is safe to use.
  5. Weatherproof Windows and Doors: Install weather stripping or caulk any gaps around windows and doors to improve energy efficiency.
  6. Clean and Store Patio Furniture: Wash outdoor furniture and store it properly for the winter.
  7. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems: To avoid freezing pipes, turn off and drain any external water lines.

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Focus: Cold weather preparedness, interior maintenance, and safety.

  1. Insulation: Check your attic and walls for proper insulation to reduce energy costs and avoid moisture problems.
  2. Check for Ice Dams: Inspect the roof for ice dams and remove snow buildup to prevent leaks.
  3. Plumbing Protection: Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces to prevent freezing.
  4. Interior Paint Touch-Ups: Winter is a great time to take care of interior cosmetic projects like touch-ups to walls or baseboards.
  5. Test Alarms: Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors again for functionality.
  6. Inspect the Water Heater: Ensure your water heater is functioning well. Drain it to remove sediment buildup.

 

We hope this has been helpful to you. Let us know in the comments if you have any maintenance tips or actions that you've found to be beneficial to your home!

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