Your home is one of your biggest investments, so it’s important to take care of it. That’s why we’ve put together this guide of annual maintenance tasks to help keep your home in tip-top shape. By staying on top of these tasks, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and keep your home looking its best.
1. Inspect your roof and gutters
Your roof is what protects your home from the elements, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Twice a year, you should inspect your roof for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or leaks. If you spot any problems, be sure to contact a professional roofer to make the necessary repairs.
In addition to inspecting your roof, you should also clean out your gutters twice a year. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and overflow, which can lead to serious damage to your foundation or basement. To clean your gutters, simply remove any debris with a garden hose or small hand shovel.
2. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are an important part of any home safety plan. To ensure they’re working properly, test them once a month and replace the batteries twice a year. It’s also a good idea to keep spare batteries on hand in case of an emergency.
3. Change your air filters
Dirty air filters can lead to several problems, including reduced energy efficiency and poor indoor air quality. To avoid these issues, change your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter you have.
4. Check your windows and doors
Over time, weatherstripping and caulk can deteriorate, which can allow air and moisture to enter your home. To keep your home well-sealed, check the weatherstripping and caulk around your windows and doors annually. If you spot any cracks or gaps, simply reapply the weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up.
5. Inspect your plumbing
Leaky plumbing can not only waste water, but it can also lead to serious water damage. To avoid these problems, inspect your plumbing fixtures and pipes for any signs of leaks or damage. Be sure to check under sinks, in cabinets, and in crawl spaces or basements. If you do find a leak, be sure to contact a basement waterproofing company to make the necessary repairs.
6. Clean your dryer vent
A clogged dryer vent can lead to a fire, so it’s important to keep it clean. Once a year, disconnect your dryer vent from the outlet and vacuum out any lint or debris. If the vent is longer than 12 feet, you may need to hire a professional to clean it for you.
7. Trim trees and shrubs
Trees and shrubs that are too close to your home can cause damage to your foundation or siding. To avoid these problems, trim any trees or shrubs that are within two feet of your home.
There you go!
By staying on top of these annual maintenance tasks, you can keep your home in good condition and avoid costly repairs down the road. If you have any questions or concerns about maintaining your home, be sure to contact a professional for help.
