Soaring home prices have made buying a house an expensive and challenging endeavor. That’s why homeowners must do their best to maintain their residential property well to keep it healthy and vibrant. With that said, here are 25 things you should consider doing for your home regularly.
1. Create a home maintenance schedule.
Creating a schedule can help you keep track of all the different maintenance tasks needed around your home. Check things off as you complete them and add new tasks as required.
2. Test your home’s electrical system.
Electrical problems can be dangerous, so immediately catching them is crucial. Have a professional check your electrical system every few years and make any necessary repairs.
3. Test your home’s plumbing system.
Plumbing problems can be costly, so it’s essential to catch them early. Have a professional check your plumbing system every few years and promptly fix any leaks or other problems.
4. Maintain your HVAC system.
Your HVAC system is one of the most critical components of your home. Have it serviced by a professional at least once a year to keep it running smoothly.
5. Inspect your chimney.
Chimneys should be inspected annually by a professional. They can check for cracks or other damage and make any necessary repairs. Remember that a clogged chimney vent is a fire hazard.
6. Inspect your roof.
It’s crucial to hire a professional to inspect your roof and repair any damage as soon as possible. That will keep it in good condition to prevent leaks and water damage. Do this once or twice a year.
7. Check your gutters and downspouts.
Gutters and downspouts play an important role in keeping your roof in top condition. They help ensure water flows away from your home’s foundation, preventing severe damage.
8. Inspect your home’s foundation.
Foundation problems can be severe, so it’s crucial to catch them early. Check for cracks or other damage and have them repaired promptly.
9. Clean your windows and doors.
Dirt, dust, and grime can build up on windows and doors, making them difficult to open and close. Clean them regularly to keep them in good condition.
10. Examine your windows and doors for drafts.
Drafty windows and doors can let heat out of your home, making it harder to keep it warm in the winter. Caulking helps seal windows and doors to prevent drafts and air leaks. Check it periodically and seal any drafts you find to help improve your home’s energy efficiency.
11. Check your home’s siding.
Siding can crack or become damaged over time. Cracks in your home’s exterior can let water in, which can cause severe damage. Inspect it regularly and repair any damage as soon as possible.
12. Inspect your home’s exterior paint.
Exterior paint can fade or become damaged over time. Inspect it periodically and repaint it to keep your home looking its best.
13. Check your smoke detectors.
Smoke detectors are an essential safety feature in any home. Test them monthly and replace the batteries as needed.
14. Check your carbon monoxide detectors.
Carbon monoxide is a severe hazard. Ensure that your carbon monoxide detectors work properly and replace the batteries as needed.
15. Test your home’s security system.
Your home’s security system is essential for keeping your family safe. Test it monthly and call the company if there are any problems.
16. Test your home’s emergency lights.
Emergency lights are essential for power outages or other emergencies. Test them monthly and replace the batteries as needed.
17. Check for termites and other pests.
Termites and other pests can cause severe damage to your home if left unchecked. Have a pest control company inspect your home regularly and treat pests as needed.
18. Trim trees and shrubs near your home.
Trees and shrubs that are too close to your house can cause damage to your roof and siding. Trim them back to keep them from causing problems.
19. Remove debris from your yard.
Debris in your yard can attract pests and rodents. Keep your yard clean and free of debris to help prevent problems.
20. Mow and fertilize your lawn regularly.
Keep your lawn healthy and looking its best. Mowing keeps it neat and helps prevent weeds from taking over. Be sure to mow your lawn regularly during the growing season. Use a fertilizer appropriate for the type of grass you have and follow the directions carefully.
21. Water your plants regularly.
Plants need water to survive, so water them regularly, especially during hot weather. Check the soil before watering to make sure it is dry.
Maintaining your home is an important task, and there are many things to do to keep it in good condition. We’ve listed some of the most critical tasks here, but check with your local municipality for other requirements. Many of these tasks should be done regularly, such as checking your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, testing your security system, and trimming trees and shrubs near your house. Others, like inspecting your roof or cleaning windows and doors, should be done seasonally. By keeping on top of these maintenance tasks, you can help protect your home from damage and keep it looking its best.