What You Need to Know About Home Maintenance

As much as we might like to, it’s not a good idea to skip out on home maintenance. Home maintenance is important not just for making sure your house looks its best, but also to keep it in good shape, continue to build equity, and avoid future problems. To help you from feeling overwhelmed, we’ve created this list of upkeep items and when to complete them!

Monthly Home Maintenance

To prevent the need for larger repairs in the future, it’s a good idea to do the following tasks on a monthly basis. These tasks are quick and easy and could end up saving you a lot of money!

• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Check HVAC system filters and clean or replace them when necessary
• Clean range hood and furnace filters
• Check for leaks by the toilets and sinks
• Unclog sink and shower drains

Seasonal Home Maintenance

Some bigger projects are best saved to complete seasonally. These tasks don’t need to be taken care of as often but will help your house stay clean and in good working order when you complete them as the seasons change.

Fall & Winter Maintenance:

• Remove your air conditioners or winterize your central air unit
• Service your heating systems and check radiators and pipes for cracks or leaks
• Clean and store your lawn mower
• Store your hose and turn off outdoor water
• Seal any cracks around your windows and doors
• Check chimney for blockages and hire a professional to check it for safety

Spring and Summer Maintenance:

• Clean your gutters
• Clean your lawn
• Sweep your deck, check for cracked wood, power wash, and repaint if necessary
• Examine the exterior of your house as well as the exterior siding to check for needed repairs
• Check your sump pump to be sure it’s draining as it should
• Declutter by going through your closets, sheds, garages, and other areas to get rid of items you no longer need

Yearly Home Maintenance

These are the projects you can save for once a year. Just don’t skip them because they have the potential to save you from more expensive repairs in the future.

• Drain the hot water heater and clean it out
• Clean the dryer exhaust and make sure the vent is working properly
• Clean the bathrooms’ exhaust fan grill
• Clean the septic tank
• Look for signs of termites
• Hire a professional to inspect your roof
• Deep clean your entire house
• Change your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries

Being a Homeowner

Homeownership is a commitment, and it involves a lot of upkeep and maintenance. But homeownership also has its rewards. If you’re looking to buy a house or refinance your existing one, make sure to contact us today to learn how we can help.