Natural disasters are the most common causes of home damage to your home. Do you know what else can damage your home? Poor maintenance Even if you don’t live in an area prone to flooding or other sudden disasters, you can still find yourself dealing with costly home repairs due to a lack of upkeep. Use this checklist to ensure you’re taking the proper steps to keep it in good condition.
1. Regularly Check Your Window Blinds And Shades
Window shades and blinds can collect dust and dirt over time, which makes them look old and unsightly. Additionally, dirt and dust can clog up the mechanism that opens and closes the shades, making them difficult to operate. To keep your window shades in good condition, use a feather duster daily for regular cleaning and an occasional deep clean with a vacuum cleaner.
2. Examine Doorways And Windows For Air Leaks
Air leaks can cause your energy bills to skyrocket and lead to moisture damage over time. To check if there’s an air leak, hold a candle or incense stick close to the window or door and see if the flame moves. If it does, then there’s an air leak.
You can also rattle the window or door frame to see if daylight comes through the edges. You may need to seal or replace the windows and doors if it does. To properly maintain your doors and windows, you may need to apply weather stripping or caulking to stop any air from leaking in or out.
3. Inspect Your HVAC System Regularly
Your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is also crucial to keeping your home comfortable and healthy. Inspecting it regularly for any damage, leaks or blockages in the system is essential. Check the air filters, ducts, evaporator coils, condenser coils, and other parts of the HVAC system at least once every three months. If you’re only renting the place and are confused if HVAC concerns are your responsibility, you may read this article.
4. Clean Gutters And Downspouts Regularly
Gutters are essential for preventing water damage to your home since they act as a shield by preventing water from accumulating near the roof and walls of your house. They can also repel pests such as mosquitoes and rats. Make sure to clean them at least once every six months or more frequently if you live in a rainy area.
5. Check Your Roof For Damage
Checking your roof is an integral part of home maintenance. Inspect the roof for damage such as missing or broken shingles, leaks, and any other damage that may have occurred from storms or other natural causes. You may also check for roof holes and get them fixed immediately. Leaving roof damage unaddressed can lead to costly water damage and repair bills.
6. Get Your Plumbing System Inspected Regularly
Your plumbing system delivers clean water throughout your home, so it must be inspected regularly. A professional plumber should be able to inspect your pipes and fixtures and check if there are any leaks, clogs, or other issues. If you want to do it yourself, you can check for leaks by running all the taps and flushing all the toilets in your home. If there are any drops or puddles, then there is a leak in the system, and you should call a plumber to repair it.
7. Clean Your Dryer Vents
Dryer vents are one of the most overlooked parts of a home. They’re often clogged with lint, dirt and other debris, which can lead to a fire hazard. Inspecting them periodically can reduce fire risks and increase efficiency. You may also get it professionally cleaned once a year.
8. Clean Your Appliances Regularly
Cleaning your appliances is essential for keeping them in good condition and extending their lifespan. Make sure to clean the insides of microwaves, ovens, refrigerators, washing machines, and other appliances with a damp cloth or sponge. This will help remove any dust, dirt, or debris that may have built up over time and prevent any problems from occurring.
9. Check Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
Another essential part of home maintenance is checking your smoke detectors and extinguishers. They’re necessary for keeping your family safe from any potential fire hazards. Check them regularly and replace the batteries every six months to ensure they function correctly. If they aren’t working, replace them immediately because they can help save lives in the event of a fire.
10. Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney Regularly
If you have a fireplace or chimney in your home, it’s essential to inspect them regularly for any damage. Check for cracks or holes that may have been caused by wear and tear. If you find any issues, call a professional chimney sweep or mason to inspect and repair them immediately.
Summary
Regularly maintaining your home is essential for its longevity and can save you time and money on costly repairs. The practices above only show a few items you should include in your checklist. Check all parts of your home regularly and call a professional if any issues arise.
POSTED BY 
