It’s no secret that homeownership is expensive. The average homeowner spends over $1500 a year on routine maintenance and repairs, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). And it can cost tens of thousands of dollars to replace major systems like heating and plumbing.
But there are some basic home maintenance tasks that all homeowners should perform on a regular basis. This will help keep your home in good condition and prevent costly repairs down the road. Here are some home maintenance tips for rookie homeowners:
- Check for leaks regularly and fix them as soon as possible.
- Clean the gutters at least twice a year.
- Change the air filter every three months or sooner if it’s dirty.
- Inspect the smoke detectors and change the batteries at least once a year.
- Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles and make repairs as needed.
- Look for cracks in windows, doors, or siding around the house
Check for leaks regularly and fix them as soon as possible.
Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems for homeowners. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage is the second most common insurance claim after a storm. That’s why it’s important to check for leaks regularly and fix them as soon as possible. A few drops of water may not seem like a big deal, but over time, they can add up to serious damage.
Look for leaks around faucets, pipes, and appliances. Also, check for stains or damp spots on ceilings, walls, and floors. Make sure to also include your drain. You can hire plumbers or drain cleaners to clear clogs, fix leaks, and perform maintenance. If you find a leak, don’t delay in fixing it. The longer it takes to repair the leak, the more damage it can cause.
Clean the gutters at least twice a year.
Gutters play an important role in protecting your home from water damage. They divert rainwater away from the foundation and keep the roof in good condition. But if they’re clogged with leaves and debris, they can’t do their job properly. That’s why it’s important to clean the gutters at least twice a year.
You can do it yourself or hire a professional. Either way, it’s a good idea to inspect the gutters regularly and clean them as needed.
Change the air filter every three months or sooner if it’s dirty.
Changing the air filter is an important part of routine home maintenance. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the HVAC system to work harder than necessary, which can lead to increased energy costs. It’s a good idea to change the air filter every three months or sooner if it’s dirty.
Leaving old and dirty air filters can also cause the system to break down, which can be expensive to repair. It’s also dangerous for our health to breathe in dirty air. Additionally, some studies have shown that a dirty air filter can cause asthma and other respiratory problems. That’s why it’s important to clean or replace your air filter on a regular basis.
Inspect the smoke detectors and change the batteries at least once a year.
Smoke detectors are an important part of a home security system. They detect smoke and flames and provide early warning, which can help save lives and property. That’s why it’s important to inspect the smoke detectors and change the batteries at least once a year.
It’s also a great idea to include smoke detectors in your fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in the event of a fire.
Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles and make repairs as needed.
Your roof is one of the most important components of your home. It protects your home from the elements and helps keep it in good condition. But if there are missing or damaged shingles, it can lead to water damage and other problems. That’s why it’s important to inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles and make repairs as needed.
Leaving your roof in disrepair can be expensive and dangerous. Make sure to keep up with routine maintenance and repairs to keep your roof in good condition.
Look for cracks in windows, doors, or siding around the house
Windows, doors, and siding are all important components of your home. They help keep the weather out and provide security. But if they’re damaged, it can lead to further damage and other problems. That’s why it’s important to inspect the exterior of your home for signs of damage and make repairs as needed.
Make it a weekly habit to inspect the outside of your home and look for cracks, holes, or other damage. If you find any damage, don’t delay in making repairs. The longer you wait, the worse the damage can become.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your home in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road. So don’t wait; start maintaining your home today!
