7 Maintenance Tips for New Homeowners
Buying a new property can be an exciting time but it can also be a little intimidating. After all, a house is a big investment and you want to do everything you can to protect it. One way to do that is by properly maintaining your new property. With proper maintenance, you can keep your home in top condition, potentially preventing expensive repairs down the road. Additionally, it adds to the curb appeal of your home and can even help boost its resale value.
Not sure where to start? Here are seven maintenance tips for new homeowners:
1. Keep up with landscaping
Well-maintained yards and gardens will always attract visitors and even potential homebuyers (if you plan to resell your home in the future). Be sure to regularly mow the lawn, trim hedges, and bushes, and pull weeds. Also, don’t forget to fertilize your lawn and plants to keep them healthy. Although it doesn’t have to be perfect, you should also consider power washing your home’s exterior at least once a year. This will help keep the siding and trim looking new.
2. Regularly check your pipes and drains
Check all your home’s pipes and drains regularly for any signs of leaks or clogs. If you do find a leak, be sure to have it fixed as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the leak, you may be able to fix it yourself or have a professional plumber do it for you. Having a plumber check for your pipes regularly can help you save more time and money in the long run as they can identify any potential problems early on. Although this is only an option, you can always check your pipes yourself if you have prior knowledge or experience.
3. Inspect your roof regularly
Your roof serves as your protection from weather and other elements you can find outside. That’s why it’s important to regularly inspect it for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles or cracks. One common issue homeowners face is pests, such as birds or squirrels, making nests in the gutters. So, be sure to clean your gutters regularly to avoid any potential problems. If you’re unsure about anything, you can always hire a professional roofer to take a look for you.
4. Inspect your home’s gutters and downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts play an important role in protecting your home from water damage. That’s why it’s important to regularly check them for any signs of wear and tear, such as holes or cracks. You should also clean your gutters at least once a year to remove any leaves or debris that may have gathered. If you notice any damage, be sure to have it fixed as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may be able to fix it yourself, or better to have a professional contractor fix it to avoid any further damages.
5. Keep your fire extinguisher and smoke detector up-to-date
All homes should have a fire extinguisher, and you should regularly check it to ensure it’s in working order. One easy way to remember is to check your fire extinguisher when you change the batteries of your smoke detector. It’s also important to know how to use a fire extinguisher properly in case of an emergency. Be sure to read the instructions carefully so you’ll be prepared if a fire does break out in your home. It’s also crucial to have your smoke detector regularly checked by a professional residential fire protection system expert to avoid any false fire alarms.
6. Check your windows and doors
Your windows and doors play an important role in keeping your home energy-efficient. So, it’s important to regularly check them for any gaps or cracks. You can easily do this by holding a piece of paper up to the window or door. If there’s any light coming through, then you know you have a gap that needs to be sealed. Another way to improve your home’s energy efficiency is to upgrade your windows and doors to more energy-efficient models. This will help reduce your energy bills and make your home more comfortable all year round.
7. Check your home’s foundation
Changing weather can affect your home’s foundation, so it’s important to regularly check it for any cracks or damage. Rain and snow can cause the ground to shift, which can lead to cracks in your foundation. This can be a serious issue if left unchecked, so be sure to have any cracks repaired as soon as possible. You can do this yourself with some concrete sealant or hire a professional contractor to do it for you.
Home Maintenance Should Not Be A Tiring Chore
Maintenance is a part of being a homeowner, but it doesn’t have to be a tiring chore. By taking some preventative measures and being proactive, you can keep your home in tip-top shape, avoid any major problems down the road, and enjoy living inside it with your loved ones. Plus, regular maintenance can actually increase your home’s value over time. So, it’s worth taking the time to do it right.