There are a lot of things that go into being a homeowner. You have to worry about the big things, like the roof and the foundations, but you also have to worry about the small things, like fixing a leaky faucet. When it comes to home repairs, many people think only of the big or obvious projects. But there are a lot of small or less obvious repairs that you might not realize you need to make. Here are 10 home repairs that you might not know you need!
It’s important to keep on top of home repairs for a number of reasons. First, if you ignore them and let small repairs become bigger problems, it can cost more money in the long run. It can also be dangerous to ignore certain repairs, such as a gas leak or electrical problems. Additionally, making sure your home is properly maintained can help to keep it looking and functioning its best, making it more enjoyable to live in.
1. Check the Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. It’s important to make sure your roof is in tip-top shape, as it can help prevent major disasters such as water damage. Have a professional assess your roof at least once a year to ensure that shingles are in good condition and there are no loose nails.
2. Inspect Gutters
Gutters are responsible for directing rainwater away from your home and they’re critical in keeping your home dry and free from water damage. Inspect your gutters at least once a year to make sure they’re securely attached to the house and that they’re free of debris.
3. Consider Tuckpointing
Tuckpointing is the process of filling in small cracks between bricks with a special mortar. This helps prevent water from seeping through and damaging the interior of your home. Small cracks can also make your home draughty and less energy efficient. Have a professional tuckpointing company inspect your brick walls and tuckpoint them if necessary.
4. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large quantities. To make sure your family stays safe, make sure you test your carbon monoxide detectors once a month and replace the batteries at least twice a year. And if you don’t have any carbon monoxide detectors in your home, get some in as soon as possible. It’s also worth getting your boiler checked and serviced annually to prevent issues from arising.
5. Replace Door Seals
The seals around your exterior doors are critical in keeping cold air out and warm air inside. Over time, these seals can become cracked or worn and need to be replaced. Have a professional inspect the seals around your doors and replace them as necessary.
6. Clean Dryer Vents
Dryer vents can become clogged with lint over time, posing a fire hazard. Make sure to clean dryer vents once a year, or more frequently if the vent is in a particularly dust-prone area. This will help reduce the risk of fire and improve the efficiency of your dryer.
7. Check Window Seals
Just like the seals around your exterior doors, the seals around your windows can become cracked or worn over time. This can cause drafts and make your home less energy efficient. Have a professional inspect the seals around your windows and replace them if necessary.
8. Service HVAC System
Your HVAC system is one of the most important parts of your home, both in terms of its comfort and energy efficiency. Make sure to have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year and replace air filters when necessary. When parts of an HVAC system become clogged, you often won’t be able to tell this is the case. But it will reduce the efficiency of the system, as well as cause a potential fire hazard.
9. Check Smoke Detectors
It’s important to make sure that your smoke detectors are in good working order. Test all of the smoke detectors in your home once a month and replace the batteries twice a year. If you don’t have smoke detectors in your home, get them installed as soon as possible. When you buy smoke detectors, most of them state the expected lifespan, which is usually 5-10 years. Make a note of the expected expiry date so the device doesn’t go out of service without you realizing it.
10. Electrical Repairs
If you see any frayed wires, exposed outlets, or other signs of electrical problems, have a professional inspect the area and repair any issues as soon as possible. This will help keep your home safe and functioning properly. However, sometimes electrical problems can be hidden or not so obvious. If your electrics have not been checked for a while, get a professional over to look at them. This includes looking at electrical appliances you use frequently, which could be things such as fans or electric blankets.
Maintaining your home can be a big job, but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. By following these 10 tips, you can ensure your home stays safe and efficient for years to come.
