Home maintenance can feel daunting; especially if you’re a new homeowner. Great maintenance keeps your home in great shape, in the same way that brushing your teeth can prevent you from needing a root canal down the road. By being proactive with home maintenance, you can prevent major damage and bigger repairs in the future. You’ll also save money on heating and cooling costs and keep your home safe and comfortable.
When you’re checking out homes you might want to buy, take time to consider the maintenance you’re committing to if you choose the property.
Home maintenance costs vary depending on the size, outdoor space, history, and age of the property you own. In general it’s wise to keep at least 1% of the cost of your home for maintenance costs yearly. When you buy your home, use the list above to consider how much each step costs and which steps will require a professional. Then keep track of home maintenance costs in the first year so you know what to expect in the future.
Drainage is an important factor in mitigating flood risks and preventing damage. Blocked gutters can cause flooding or damage from built up ice or fallen leaves. Make sure you remove debris and hanging icicles from gutters and eavestroughs and other areas where water needs to be able to flow and drain. If you notice eavestroughs regularly clogging, consider installing a screen top to keep water moving.
Regularly cleaning floors, windows, tiles, and carpets helps present mildew, mold, and grime. Vacuum grilles or heating registers to avoid blockages. Don’t forget about areas like your range hood (that filter above your stove) to make sure it’s effectively filtering the grease and steam that rises when you cook.
Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and winter storms make it especially important to properly winterize your home. Preventative winter maintenance protects your home from damage and can save you money on heating bills:
Making sure pipes don’t freeze is an important part of winter maintenance. Disconnect water hoses so they don’t freeze or burst. Invest in insulation for water pipes, especially when they’re close to outdoor walls. Check the caulking showers, tubs, and sinks to avoid damp patches and mold. Look for leaks or running toilets, and make sure you know where your home’s shutoff valve or main water supply is.
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This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While the information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.
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