Homeownership is one of the most fulfilling accomplishments in life and is considered a big investment. But there is a reality under the pride of homeownership, buildings age. Every part of a house wears out over time as a result of shifting weather, constant mechanical wear and tear, and normal use.
Many homeowners work on a reactive basis and only call a repair person when their pipes burst, air conditioners break down in a hot summer or their roofs leak and leave stains on the ceiling. But repairing in case of emergency costs are usually much greater and more stressful. With a proactive maintenance checklist, you’re ensuring your property will be structurally sound, energy efficient and retaining the value of your home for years to come.
Quick Safety and efficiency habits, Part 1: Monthly maintenance habits.
Regular monthly inspections take little time but give you real-time data and information about how your home’s critical systems are operating.
Check and change all HVAC filters.
A heating and cooling system are in constant operation to maintain indoor climate. Air filters capture pet hair, dust, pollen and air particles over a period of weeks. A dirty filter makes your HVAC blower motor harder to run and results in decreased airflow, higher utility costs and increased mechanical wear. Check filters every 30 days. Use regular filters for 1-2 months, or 1/4 of the time if you have pets or live in a dusty climate.
Test smoke detectors, GFCI outlets.
Residential safety devices save lives only when they are operating correctly. Test each smoke and carbon monoxide alarm at home once a month by pressing the “test” button to make sure the alarm produces a sound. At the same time, inspect Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in areas that are susceptible to water, such as bathrooms, garages, and kitchens. Pressing the “test” button should turn the power off instantaneously while pressing “reset” should turn the power back on.
- Exterior Checkups, in Season, Strengthening the Building Envelope
The outside of your house is your first line of defense against the elements, especially wind, rain, and fluctuating weather. Checking outside parts in spring and fall will keep moisture out of interior parts.
Ensure garden gutters are clear and water is directed away from the roof.
Some of the main causes of roof rot, damaged fascia boards, and water intrusion in the foundation walls are due to clogged gutters. Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, twigs and debris at least twice a year, preferably after the trees have dropped their leaves in the fall and in the early spring. Make sure that downspout extenders carry out water away from the foundation footings at least 5-10 feet.
Examine Siding, Window Seals and Foundation Cracks
Inspect siding materials, exterior caulking and visible masonry by walking around your home twice a year. Look for dried and crumbling caulk around door and window frames and use a high-quality exterior sealant to seal to prevent drafts and moisture problems. Look for cracks in the concrete foundation that are no more than 1/4 inch wide. Stair-step cracks in brick work or cracks greater than 1/4 inch are indications of settlement, and should be checked by a structural specialist.
Interior Plumbing and Major Appliance Servicing
Interior appliances are a common cause for water leaks and breakdowns if they are not closely monitored. These time-consuming machines stay in great shape with periodic preventative care.
Drain Water Heater and Look for Undetectable Water Leaks.
The sediment that naturally forms at the bottom of conventional water heater tanks creates an insulating barrier that lowers the tank’s efficiency at heating water and causes the tank to corrode. To prevent mineral buildup in the unit and to help extend the life of the unit, flush several gallons of water through the drain valve one or two times per year. In addition, check under sinks, around toilet supply valves and behind washing machines for any imperceptible drips or bulging rubber hoses. By switching to braided stainless-steel supply lines, the chances of catastrophic burst lines are significantly reduced.
Clean vacuum refrigerator coils and clean dryer vents.
Condenser coils are located behind or under your refrigerator and they release heat from the cooling cycle. With thick coats of dust and pet dander on these coils, the compressor will have to cycle on for more time, reducing its lifespan and increasing electricity usage. Vacuum these coils twice a year. The more important point to note is that you should clean the whole of your clothes dryer ductwork once a year. Lint buildup in vent pipes is a major cause of house structure fires and it helps to dry them out quickly, so it’s key to clear it out for the safety of your home.
- Developing a long-term support plan for sustainability
Maintaining a home is not a race to run; it’s a rhythm of stewardship.
Set up a Home Repair Fund for the home.
The general rule in real estate is to save $1%$ to $2%$ of the total market value of your home annually in a liquid savings account that is dedicated to your home’s routine maintenance and future capital replacements (e.g., roof shingles, furnace, etc.). Having the cash on hand takes the surprise when mechanicals need to be replaced in your vehicle with the big item.
Use a Detailed Digital Maintenance Binder.Keep a Detailed Digital Maintenance Binder.
Maintain a digital folder or document to track each major service, filter size, paint code and contractor receipt. If you can provide exact dates when the roof was installed, when the sewer main was scoped, or when the water heater was replaced, it will make troubleshooting easier and will be a real help when you get ready to sell the house someday.
The Power of Small Habits is that they can help safeguard Great Equity.
A house is a living, intricate complex of interrelated elements, and like any good machine, it needs routine maintenance. An hour or two a month can make a difference in making sure that things are not left to chance and will save you from the high cost of a repairman calling you up at midnight when you are caught with your pants down. You’re creating a proactive, planned routine for maintaining your home, and you’re turning your house into a long-lasting, stress-free haven.
