10 Home Maintenance Tips Every Residential Property Owner Should Know

Do you own a residential property? If so, you need to know how to keep it in top shape. Although hiring experts can save you time and money on major repairs, understanding the basics of home maintenance can help ensure that your house is always in great condition.

Here are 10 essential tips to follow:

• Check for water damage – Water damage can cause serious issues if not addressed quickly. Look for signs of water and moisture in the basement, attic, bathrooms, and kitchen. You should also inspect the pipes and HVAC systems for any leaks. This is especially important after a period of heavy rain or snow.

• Inspect for pests – Pests can cause extensive damage to your property, so it’s important to inspect your home regularly for any signs of infestation. If you find evidence of an insect or small animal problem, contact a professional residential pest control immediately. This can help prevent costly repairs in the future.

• Change the air filters – It’s important to replace your HVAC system air filters once every three months. This will help keep your heating and cooling systems running efficiently, while also improving the indoor air quality of the home. When the filters become dirty or clogged, they can cause damage to the system and cause high energy bills.

• Clean gutters – Cleaning your gutters is an important part of home maintenance because it prevents water damage to your house’s foundation and siding. Avoid ladders when cleaning the gutters as much as possible, and if you need to use one, be sure to take all necessary safety precautions.

• Repair leaky faucets and toilets – As mentioned before, water damage can be a major problem when it comes to home maintenance. Leaky faucets and toilets can cause mold growth and wasted water, so they should be dealt with as soon as possible. This can usually be done by replacing gaskets or washers.

• Check windows – Damaged windows should be repaired or replaced immediately. Not only do damaged windows compromise the structural integrity of your home, but they can also leak heat or air conditioning, leading to high energy costs. The frames, glass seals, and weatherstripping should also be inspected for any damage.

• Test smoke alarms – Smoke alarms are a critical part of home safety, so it’s important to test them regularly. You should replace the batteries twice per year and check the age of each alarm; they need to be replaced if they are more than 10 years old. If the alarm is chirping, you may need to replace it.

• Prune trees – Tree pruning and trimming can help keep your property looking neat and tidy while also preventing the risk of overhanging limbs falling onto your home, car, or other structures. Regularly cutting away dead branches can also help to increase the lifespan of the tree. When in doubt, contact a professional arborist for assistance.

• Clean the dryer vent – Regularly cleaning your dryer vent is essential for preventing potential fires. Lint and debris can easily build up and cause a fire hazard, so you should clean the outside of the vent regularly and have it inspected by a professional at least once per year. This is especially important if the vent runs through an external wall.

• Check for foundation cracks – Foundations can crack or settle over time, leading to major structural damage if not taken care of quickly. Watch for any signs of cracking in your home’s exterior walls and inspect the crawlspace or basement for any signs of settling or sinking concrete. If you see any issues, contact a structural engineer right away.

By following these 10 essential home maintenance tips, you can help keep your home in great shape and avoid costly repairs down the road. The key is to stay on top of any potential issues before they become major problems. With regular maintenance and timely repairs, you can maintain the value of your home and protect it for years to come.