Your house is a major asset that needs routine care, however, it’s easy to forget in the daily routine and take it for granted until a problem arises. Home maintenance can prevent damage and save you from paying those deductibles on your homeowner’s insurance as well as keep you from paying higher costs for a repair later! Depending on the age of your home and its history, it may be worth hiring an inspector to get an in-depth analysis and idea of what needs are urgent and what can be done to maintain the home. However, if your home is in good shape, most of the outdoor and indoor maintenance can be done without hiring a professional. Here are some simple tips to get you started!
Outdoor Tasks:
• Caulk up gaps in the exterior of the house, especially around windows
• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Inspect roof and chimney for cracks and damage (water damage can be costly, avoid claiming it on your homeowner’s insurance)
• Touch up peeling or damaged paint
• Clean off and bring out outdoor furniture
• Wash the windows
• Service your lawn mower
• Aerate or dethatch your lawn and also fertilize/re-seed
• Plant annuals or perennials
• Spray the perimeter of your house with pest spray to keep out bugs and set traps for rodents
• Get your air conditioning unit serviced or clean it
Indoor Tasks:
• Clean out the lint from dryer vent (build-up can cause a fire)
• Clean windows and repair screens
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Wash and change seasonal bedding
• Dust blinds and vacuum curtains throughout your house
• Clean out kitchen and bathroom cabinets
• Test plug and charger outlets