Home maintenance is an important investment in your property, as it improves the security of your home. One burglary occurs every 20 seconds, and a home with overgrown bushes and stray branches is a prime target. Proper home maintenance will not only keep your home safe, but it will also alert you to any potential problems before they cause serious damage.

Budgeting for home maintenance

Home maintenance can cost a lot of money, and it’s a good idea to budget for it. In most cases, 2% to 3% of the home’s value is sufficient, although there are some factors that may affect the final cost. Older homes, those that are close to water or in an area with harsh weather, and homes with over 3,000 square feet will all require more maintenance. However, it’s important to be realistic in determining your maintenance budget and to not overestimate costs.

While home maintenance tasks are often time-consuming, you can simplify this process by using a home maintenance checklist. This way, you can break down the various tasks into monthly, seasonal, and annual tasks. For example, you can plan to clean the dryer vent every month, drain the hot water heater yearly, and check for leaks around fixtures. Some of these tasks can be done for free, and they’ll help you prevent costly repairs in the future.

Checking for mildew and mold

It’s crucial to check for mold and mildew as part of regular home maintenance, as they are often difficult to distinguish from dirt. Molds can grow on ceiling tiles, wood, paper, and other surfaces that get damp. They can also grow in paints and drywall, insulation, and fabrics. They may look like spots, or smell musty.

Both mold and mildew are fungi, and they can cause serious health problems if not treated. While mildew can be easily removed with a cleaning brush, mold is more difficult to remove. In some cases, you may need to contact a professional.

Fixing leaky faucets

Fixing leaky faucets is a simple task for homeowners, but it’s important to know the exact cause of the problem. In most cases, the cause is mineral deposits or corrosion of the faucet parts. If you can’t fix the leak yourself, you may need to contact a plumber.

Leaky faucets can waste a significant amount of water. Even a small leak can waste up to three gallons of water a day, which can add up to $100 or more to your annual water bill. Bigger leaks can waste as much as thirty gallons of water.

If you’re handy with a screwdriver, fixing a leaking faucet can be easy. Depending on where the leak is coming from and how well the faucet is made, you may be able to do it yourself. However, you should not attempt to fix a leaking faucet yourself if you’re not confident with plumbing. A leaky faucet can cause a large flood if you leave it unchecked for a long time, so it’s best to call in a professional. Otherwise, you may end up wasting your money and resources on a repair that could be easy to solve.

Preventing water damage

Keeping an eye on your home’s plumbing system can help you prevent water damage. Even a small leak can lead to significant damage. Regular maintenance is essential. It’s also vital to pay attention to your water bill. If your bill is abnormally high, there may be a leak in your home.

A home’s drainage is also important to preventing water damage. Poor drainage can lead to basement leaks and slab cracks. The yard should be sloped properly to promote natural drainage. However, the slope may not be optimal all around your house. In that case, consider hiring a professional for a complete drainage system.

Inspect your home’s drainage system regularly. Checking for cracks, leaks, and clogs can prevent water damage. A broken washing machine hose, for instance, can release a large amount of water in a matter of hours.

Keeping your home in tip-top shape

Keeping your home in tip-top shape can be a challenge, especially if you have a family. However, it can be a bit easier if you follow a few simple home maintenance tips. One of these tips is to have regular home inspections.

Making a list of what needs to be done in your house can help you stay on task and stay on track. Plus, a list gives you a sense of accomplishment when you cross things off the list. Some tasks are recurring while others are seasonal, so you may want to make separate lists for each season.