Establishing and following a maintenance schedule is the best way to manage your household maintenance budget, to protect your investment, and to prevent problems.
SAFETY FIRST- Homeowners often want to perform maintenance themselves to save money. It is important to remember that there are many areas of home maintenance that are best left to professionals. For example, electrical work, entering an attic, or climbing on roofs and ladders are just a few hazardous activities. It is better to take the safe choice if there is any question as to the ability of the homeowner to perform any maintenance task.
- Remove debris from gutters, eaves, troughs and down-pipes. Hose them out and ensure good drainage flow.
- Examine window and door seals and repair as necessary. This will cut down on energy costs for cooling.
- Examine and repair grout in bathrooms and tile floors to prevent moisture damage materials' shrinkage may occur during the hot season
- Inspect and lubricate garage door roller shafts (do not attempt to adjust door springs yourself - always call a technician).
- Lubricate locks on doors and windows with silicone spray.
- Check window screens and screen doors for tears if installed.
- Check the condition of concrete slabs and sidewalks and asphalt driveways - repair cracks as necessary.
- Make sure sprinklers and hoses are not directed against the outside of the house.
- Make sure that plants and bushes do not grow up against the outside of the house (moisture can stay trapped and not dry causing damage).
- Check all landscaping and outdoor features to ensure good drainage away from the house, if the ground has settled or water is running back toward the house.
- Make sure all your drainage systems are working properly and that water drains away from your home. If it does not, take corrective actions immediately.
- Check to ensure there are no insects or vermin getting into your home.
