With the arrival of summer and warm weather enticing us outdoors, now is the perfect time to tackle those home projects that may have been put off during the winter. As a new homeowner, it’s essential to have a maintenance plan in place to keep your home in excellent condition while saving money. While newer homes require less upkeep, over time, you’ll need to address various aspects of both the interior and exterior as your home ages.
To get started, break down your care into three main tasks: Inspection, Cleaning, and Repair/Replacement. Here are some valuable tips for each category that you can easily handle on your own without the need for a contractor.
Test and Inspect:
Begin by evaluating the condition of crucial structural and functional components, such as the roof, shingles, gutters, windows, plumbing hardware, water heater, HVAC system, and other major appliances. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, mold, or missing parts that could lead to wood rot or pest infestations. Check for poor sealing and insulation that might cause high energy bills. Inspect caulking around windows for cracks that could let in drafts and test refrigerator door seals to ensure they are effective. Keep an eye on moisture or flood issues and ensure downspouts are connected properly while checking the sump pump levels twice a year. Monitoring your water bill can help you track energy consumption.
Repair and Replacement:
After completing your inspections, you’ll have a clear idea of what needs to be repaired or replaced. If you’re unsure about the required parts, consult the appliance manufacturer, a contractor, or any care instructions you might have saved. Always keep a well-stocked toolbox with screws, nuts, bolts, nails, power tools, and other hardware for quick fixes. Attend to faulty shutoff valves, loose showerheads, malfunctioning smoke detectors, squeaky door hinges and floorboards, loose wallpaper, leaky faucets, clogged or running toilets, and misaligned drawers and blinds. Consider keeping spray lubricant for jammed windows, replacement washers for valves, or expanding foam for securing wobbly pipes. Don’t forget to stock up on HVAC air filters, which should be changed once or twice a year to improve unit efficiency.
Cleaning and Renewing:
Regular cleaning and renewal are essential to maintaining the condition of your home. Pay attention to your tub, showers, and bathroom areas, addressing issues like crumbling, peeling, mold, or mildew. Clean exhaust fans to ensure they run smoothly, flush out your water heater, and clear clogs from drains and disposal. Twice a year, clear away leaves and debris from your gutters to prevent clogging. Wash your siding or repaint traditional exteriors for enhanced curb appeal and to protect against wood rot. Apply a stain-blocking primer on ceilings and basement walls. Vacuum dust and debris from your refrigerator coils, de-gunk your washer, and clear the lint from your dryer vent. Additionally, protect your roof by trimming overgrown shrubs and trees away from your house.
While certain home maintenance tasks may require professional help, there are many you can handle with the right tools and attention to care. If you choose to hire a handyman for some tasks, that’s perfectly fine, but learning basic home care skills can save you money and make you a more self-sufficient and frugal homeowner. So, embrace these essential tips and take charge of maintaining your new home!