15 Must-Do Maintenance Tasks for Every Homeowner

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Maintaining your home is crucial for its longevity, safety, and value. To help you get started, here’s a quick checklist of 15 essential tasks. Prioritize these tasks to avoid costly repairs, lower energy bills, and make a comfortable living space. Protect your investment today!

Gutter Cleaning

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Clean gutters and downpipes twice a year to ensure proper water flow and hinder potential damage to your home’s foundation. Remove leaves, debris, and granules that can clog gutters and cause water to overflow.

HVAC Maintenance

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Schedule annual professional maintenance for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure efficiency and extend lifespan. This includes inspecting and cleaning filters, coils, and fans.

Roof Inspections

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Assess your roof annually for damaged, missing, or loose shingles and repair or change them to prevent water damage. Also, check flashing, vents, and chimneys for damage or wear.

Pest Control

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Routinely observe for signs of pests, such as termites, ants, and rodents, and address infestations promptly to avoid structural damage. Look for droppings, nests, and gnaw marks. Pest control is essential to preserve both your home and your health.

Electrical Maintenance

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Hire a licensed electrician to identify, repair, or dispose of outdated or faulty electrical components, such as circuit breakers and outlets. Look out for flickering lights, warm outlets, and tripped breakers.

Appliance Maintenance

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Routinely clean and evaluate your appliances, such as your oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator, to ensure efficient performance and extend their lifespan. Review user manuals for maintenance tips.

Caulking and Sealing

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Scrutinize and change worn-out caulk and sealants around windows, doors, and joints to block air leaks and water damage. Look out for gaps and cracks as often as possible to maintain waterproof seals.

Plumbing Probes

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Conduct a thorough investigation of pipes and fixtures to identify leaks, corrosion, and mineral buildup. Swap worn-out washers and gaskets to maintain optimal water flow and minimize damage. Monitor water pressure closely and examine hoses for signs of wear and tear.

Fire Safety

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Install reliable smoke detectors on every level of your home, and perform monthly tests to guarantee they’re functioning correctly. Update batteries annually and swap out detectors every decade to maintain peak performance. This vigilant approach will help keep your home and loved ones safe from harm.

Painting and Touch-ups

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Vigilantly monitor and refresh paint on walls, trim, and ceilings to safeguard surfaces and uphold your home’s aesthetic appeal. Opt for a matching coat of paint to blend seamlessly with the original color, maintaining a cohesive and polished look.

Flooring Maintenance

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Clean, screen, and refinish or renew flooring to prevent deterioration and maintain its appearance. To avoid damage, utilize a cleaning product suitable for your flooring type. This proactive approach will extend the durability of your flooring and keep it looking its best.

Insulation Audit

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Conduct a thorough examination of your attic, walls, and floors to determine if adequate insulation is in place. Add more insulation as needed to enhance energy efficiency and reduce energy costs. Investigate for gaps and damage and be sure of optimal performance.

Sump Pump Maintenance

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Perform a thorough test of your sump pump to ensure it’s functioning correctly and curb water damage and flooding. Evaluate the battery, alarm, and float switch to ensure they work harmoniously. Checking this off your maintenance list will provide peace of mind and protect your property.

Garage Door Maintenance

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Lubricate and assess your garage door and its components, such as springs and rollers, to ensure seamless operation. Evaluate the balance and alignment to manage issues and extend the lifespan of your garage door. Habitual maintenance will keep your garage door running smoothly and efficiently.

Landscaping and Yard Work

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To prevent damage to your home’s exterior and foundation, regularly inspect and maintain your yard, including pruning trees and shrubs. Keep plants at least 12 inches away from your home.

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