There’s a reason why Franklin D. Roosevelt once said that “real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away. Purchased with common sense, paid for in full, and managed with reasonable care, it is about the safest investment in the world.”
Maintaining your home is an important responsibility and part of property ownership if you want to keep up or even increase its value. Here are maintenance and repair activities that you must absolutely do to keep the safety, value, comfort, and visual appeal of your real estate.
Building Structure
The roof, walls, foundation, beams, and foundations support and protect the structure of your house. Hence, it is imperative that you clean the areas regularly to keep the structure in a good condition. For example, leaves and other debris that accumulate in the gutters must be removed so that water can move down the drains freely preventing clogging and flooding.
In addition to avoiding water damage, cleaning gutters and downspouts also protects the roof, decreases the risks of a cracked foundation, and keeps pests away. Furthermore, conducting routine inspections can detect problems early so that you can undertake repairs rapidly.
Another important maintenance activity to preserve your home’s structure is to clean the exterior walls. Pressure washing is perfect for that as it eliminates grime and dirt. Grit that is stuck to your walls or façade can spoil the paintwork and masonry over time. A neat looking façade not only improves the curb appeal of your home, but it also preserves the value of your property.
Inspect cracks that may appear on the exterior walls and double check that the foundation is intact. Fill up minor fissures on walls and foundation. If there are huge cracks or sagging walls, consult a specialist to see what could be done to fix it. Moreover, check for water leaks underground and maintain your yard to prevent hedges and trees from growing near your house.
Security and Safety
Another vital component of home maintenance is to make sure that your abode is safe and secure. Eliminating hazards such as clutter and dangerous products can improve the safety of your dwelling. One way is to install and check smoke detectors regularly for early detection of fires in your home. Reducing fire hazards can also enhance your personal safety.
For example, it is recommended to clean cooking spaces and replace cooker hood filters at regular intervals to avoid grease from accumulating. Flammable liquids and cleaning products must also be stored properly or locked up in a well-aired and dark room.
Maintenance of utilities is vital as well to your safety and the functionality of your residence. Therefore, take care of plumbing and electrical wirings because neglecting them can potentially lead to problems and safety issues. Do check your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system to ensure good indoor air quality and temperature.
Owning a home is highly satisfying and rewarding, but it also comes with responsibilities such as maintaining and fixing the structure and securing the house.