You work hard for the money you earn and the roof over your head, but how do you keep up with the never-ending list of home maintenance tasks when they come with a hefty price tag? As homeowners, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the constant need for upkeep, not to mention the added pressure it puts on our wallets. According to Cinch Home Services, “Appliances are an easy investment that sellers can make to improve the value of their home and increase its appeal to buyers.” That’s why appliance warranty and maintenance programs are a great way to protect both your budget and the longevity of these appliances.
1. Create a Maintenance Checklist
The first step to managing your home maintenance on a budget is to create a maintenance checklist. The list should consist of all the tasks you need to do, such as cleaning the gutters, changing air filters, and other routine maintenance tasks. Setting a timeline for each task helps you stay committed and avoid procrastination. A maintenance checklist also enables you to prioritize tasks based on their level of urgency.
Things like replacing worn-out seals on windows or checking for any signs of water damage should be at the top of your list. This way, you’ll ensure that you’re addressing the most important items first and avoiding higher repair costs in the future. Checking up on small maintenance tasks like these can help you save money in the long run. This brings us to our next point:
2. Schedule Regular Inspections
Scheduling regular inspections is an essential aspect of home maintenance. Regular reviews help detect signs of damage and wear-and-tear and possibly prevent extensive damage. After any extreme weather events, it’s necessary to conduct an inspection. This is because the damage might not be visible immediately during severe weather events such as hurricanes or floods.
Scheduling regular inspections also helps identify areas of your home that need urgent attention.
Inspection of appliances and systems is equally important. Scheduling routine maintenance for your HVAC system, plumbing, electrical, and other home systems can help identify minor problems before they become significant issues. This way, you’re doing all you can to prevent costly repairs down the line.
3. Clean Your Gutters Regularly
Cleaning the gutters is another essential aspect of home maintenance. Clean gutters ensure water flows away from your home efficiently, protecting your foundation and walls. Clogged gutters can cause water damage and even lead to a costly foundation repair. While hiring a professional to do the job for you might be ideal, you can also clean the gutters yourself using a ladder, gloves, and a garden hose.
Ideally, you want to go gutter-cleaning at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall.
4. Power Wash Your House
Power washing your house is a practical way to keep mold and mildew away. Mold and mildew can cause health problems and damage your home’s exterior. Power washing removes dirt, grime, and other pollutants that accumulate on your home’s exterior, keeping it clean and preventing further damage. Experts recommend power washing your home at least twice a year, preferably during spring and autumn.
Power washing doesn’t have to be expensive. You can rent a power washer from your local hardware store for as little as $50 daily. Moreover, hiring a professional power washer can help you save time and energy.
5. Repair or Replace Broken Windows and Doors Quickly
Repairing or replacing broken windows and doors should be done as soon as possible. Broken windows and doors allow moisture to seep into your home, causing mold, mildew, and other water damage. Additionally, broken windows and doors can compromise your home’s safety and security, and delaying repairs or replacement can lead to more expensive repairs. Repairing with DIY kits and replacement parts is a great way to save money, and you can even find used materials online.
You don’t want to skimp when it comes to repairs. Cheap repairs can cause more problems in the future and cost you more money. If a repair isn’t done correctly, it could even lead to more significant issues like structural damage and energy losses.
6. Inspect Your Roof
Inspecting your roof every few years is an integral aspect of home maintenance. Depending on the condition of your roof, you may need to consider a replacement. Roof replacements can be expensive, but delaying it can cause extensive damage, leading to costly repairs. Regular inspections help detect signs of wear and tear, such as missing or cracked shingles.
A professional can inspect your roof, or you can do it yourself. If you decide to inspect your roof yourself, make sure to use proper safety gear and only inspect when the roof is dry and free from debris.
7. Insulate Your Home
Insulating your home is an effective way to save money on energy bills. An insulation upgrade can help reduce energy costs by up to 15-20%. It also helps protect the structure of your home by keeping it more relaxed in summer and warmer in winter.
When insulating your home, the most important places to start are attics, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. For these areas, you can use various insulation materials, such as fiberglass batts or foam boards. If you need help with installation, many experienced professionals offer insulation services.
Published by HOLR Magazine.