
Home maintenance is an ongoing process essential to keep your home in good shape and remain a safe and comfortable place to live. With each season change, it's necessary to consider some maintenance tasks that will keep your home in top condition.
By performing a few tasks regularly, you can catch potential problems early, save money on repairs, and ensure that your home is always safe. These tasks include inspecting your roof, checking for leaks, cleaning gutters, maintaining HVAC systems, inspecting your windows, and maintaining your landscaping.
Here are some home maintenance tasks that are worth considering to keep your home in good shape in all seasons
1. Clean the Gutters
An important task to consider during a season change is cleaning the gutters. This task is especially important during the fall when leaves and other debris can clog your gutters and cause water to back up. In addition, it can damage your roof, walls, and foundation.
It's also necessary to check for leaks or cracks in the gutters and repair them as soon as possible. Check the downspouts to ensure they are not clogged, and the water flows freely. If they are clogged, use a plumber's snake or a hose to remove the blockage.
Additionally, inspect the gutter hangers and make sure they are securely attached to the house. It is necessary to ensure that the gutters are properly supported and won't lose during a heavy rainstorm.
You must regularly clean the gutters as it is not a costly program. According to Forbes, the national average for gutter cleaning can cost around $0.80 per linear foot. This care will provide extra protection against leaking roofs in your home.
2. Pressure Wash the Driveways
Pressure washing the driveways is an important task you should consider during a season change. The driveways are exposed to the elements all year round and can become dirty, stained, and discolored over time. It is, therefore, necessary to pressure wash the driveways often. In addition, you can use a pressure washer to clean the driveway and restore its original appearance.
It is necessary to adjust the pressure washer to the appropriate setting for the type of surface you are cleaning. For example, for concrete driveways, Concrete Network recommends a setting of around 3,000 PSI (pounds per square inch) with a nozzle tip of 12-degree is appropriate. If you're unsure of the correct setting, consult a professional who is best at providing pressure washing services.
Homeowners can pressure wash the driveways, but if you're uncomfortable using a pressure washer, it's best to hire a professional to do the job for you. It's recommended to pressure wash the driveways at least once a year, but the frequency may vary depending on the weather conditions, traffic, and other factors in your area.
3. Examine the Roof
The roof inspection or examining the roof is an important task to consider during a season change. Different seasons can bring different types of weather that can impact your home's roof. A roof inspection can help identify potential issues, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or worn flashing, and attend to them before they become key issues.
You should start by walking around the perimeter of the roof and looking for any signs of damage. Check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles and any signs of wear on the flashing around the chimneys, vents, and skylights.
If you notice any issues, it's crucial to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. It's easy for homeowners to do minor repairs. However, hiring a professional to do the job for you will be better.
These professionals are experienced in roof repair, and some even provide work guarantees. According to IBIS World, in 2023, more than 81,639 roofing contractor businesses in the US are providing their services in the country.
4. Inspect the Chimney
The chimney is an important part of your home, and its inspection is necessary during a season change. In addition, a chimney inspection can help identify potential issues, such as creosote buildup, cracks, or loose bricks, and address them before they become bigger problems.
Check for the chimney cap to ensure it is securely in place and that there are no cracks or gaps that could allow water or debris to enter the chimney.
Inspecting the chimney at least once a year and more frequently if you use your fireplace often is recommended. By inspecting the chimney regularly, you can catch any potential problems early and ensure that your chimney is safe to use.
Remember that working on the chimney can be dangerous, so if you're not comfortable or confident in your ability to inspect it, it's best to hire a professional. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to safely and effectively inspect your chimney and make any repairs that may be necessary.
5. Check the Windows
A window inspection can help identify potential issues, such as drafts, leaks, or worn weather-stripping, and address them before they become major problems.
Begin by walking around your home's exterior and looking for any visible signs of damage to the windows. For example, check for cracks, missing or loose putty, or any other damage to the window frames.
Open and close the windows to check for any issues with the operation of the window. Ensure that the windows open and close smoothly and that the locking mechanisms work properly.
You must check the windows at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. However, if you live in an area with severe weather conditions, it may be necessary to inspect them more frequently.
6. Look for Molding and Rotting Wood
One of the crucial tasks to keep your home safe in all weather is to look for molding and rotting wood in your house. It can include siding, trim, decking, and other wooden structures. A mold and rot inspection can help identify potential issues, such as water damage, decay, or wood-destroying fungi.
Pay attention to areas more likely to be affected by moisture, such as near gutters, downspouts, and areas with poor drainage. Check for any signs of water damage, such as stains, peeling paint, or blistering. It could indicate that the wood is rotting or being affected by mold. Molds are common in houses and buildings. Molds grow well on cardboard, paper products, and wood.
According to the recommendations by CDC, the humidity levels in a home must not exceed 30% to 50% to keep molds under control.
Inspect wooden decks, porches, and steps for any signs of decay or rot. Also, check for loose or wobbly railings and any signs of splinters, cracks, or rot in the wood.
Regular Maintenance Ensures Home Safety
Regular home maintenance is essential to keep your home in good shape. In addition, each season brings challenges and tasks that homeowners should address to ensure their home's safety, comfort, and longevity.
Considering the home maintenance tasks outlined in this article during each season change, you can keep your home in good shape. In addition, regular maintenance will ensure that your home is comfortable and increase its value.