Home Maintenance Tips

By Ron Austin, Sable Homes General Manager

Great, you have purchased your first home! Congratulations! Now is the time to keep up on your home maintenance on a routine schedule. This way your home stays up to date, up to code, and well maintained for future use.  Homes that lack proper up keeping end up being a bigger and bigger problem down the road. It is best to stay on top of your home care to nip any potential issues at the bud.

Fire prevention tips help to save your home from a potential disaster. Remember to vacuum out the clothes dryer duct and replace HVAC filters to improve circulation. It is also very important to change the dryer lint screen after each use to prevent buildup which can cause fires. (Popular Mechanics). In terms of electrical, be sure to check your outlets to ensure that they use ground fault circuit interrupters. These devices shut off an electrical circuit at the point when they come a potential shock hazard (NFPA).

Outdoor maintenance is important in protecting the structure and the curb appeal of your home. Routinely check your roof for repair spots or water damage and remember to clean out clogged gutters. Gutters capture water and debris from your roof and drain it away from your home. When they get clogged water and gunk accumulates and can lead to water damage (Popular Mechanics)

Summer is a great time to check the exterior of your home for potential issues. Make sure to take a look at deck or patio to check for any deterioration or safety hazards. A great way to maintain your deck is to clean and seal each year to preserve the wood and appearance. (HFHAC). Also, remember to have your roof inspected by a licensed professional every few years to ensure that there are no leaks or water damages. (Travelers).

Making sure that you stay on top of seasonal home check ups and maintenance will prevent  future headaches that may arise out of poor home upkeep. Many of these tips are quick easy checks or fixes that take less than a weekend to do, and they most definitely will pay off in the long run.