The new year is the perfect time to set goals, and what better goal than taking better care of your home? You don’t need to tackle everything at once. Start with a plan, stick to it, and remember: the internet is full of resources to guide you. Do your homework and be honest about your skill level before diving into any project.
Start with a Home Inspection
Think like a home inspector. If you’ve had an inspection before, pull out that report. It’s a great roadmap. Walk through your home and check the same areas: structure, systems, and safety. Make notes and prioritize what you find. Break it down into “must do,” “should do,” and “nice to do.” Factor in costs and set a realistic budget.
Build an Emergency Repair Fund
Homeownership comes with surprises. Setting aside 1% to 3% of your home’s value each year for maintenance and repairs can save you stress down the road. Even a small monthly contribution adds up and helps you handle unexpected expenses without breaking the bank.
Keep Your HVAC in Shape
Your heating and cooling systems work hard so don’t ignore them. Schedule annual maintenance to keep them running efficiently. A neglected system costs more to operate and can fail when you need it most. Change filters on schedule, too. Dirty filters restrict airflow, raise energy bills, and shorten equipment life. Stock up so you’re never caught without one.
Clean That Dryer Vent
A clogged dryer vent isn’t just inefficient; it’s a fire hazard. Clean it at least once a year, or more often if your dryer cycles are getting longer. If the vent is hard to reach, hire a pro.
Test Smoke and CO Detectors
Safety first. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly, replace batteries, and swap out units every 7 to 10 years. Too many homes still have detectors well past their expiration date.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Water is your home’s enemy. Clean gutters and make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation. If your roof is steep or high, hire a professional. Remember: one inch of rain on 1,000 square feet equals about 630 gallons of water. Don’t let that pool near your house!
Inspect Doors, Windows, and Seals
Drafty doors and windows waste energy. Check seals and replace any that are worn or damaged. A simple smoke stick or lighter flame can help you spot leaks.
Deep-Clean Kitchen Appliances
Pull out your appliances and clean underneath. Dust refrigerator coils for better efficiency, run your oven’s cleaning cycle, and wash vent filters. These small steps keep your kitchen running smoothly.
Keep an Eye on Your Roof
Inspect your roof after storms and in the spring. Look for damaged shingles and remove debris. If climbing up isn’t safe, use binoculars from the ground. Address issues early as they only get worse with time.
Maintain Your Fireplace
Wood-burning fireplaces need annual cleaning and inspection. Gas units should be serviced yearly, too. It’s about efficiency and safety.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Branches rubbing against siding or shingles can cause damage and give critters a path to your roof. Trim annually, especially in late fall or winter when trees are bare.
Summary
Regular maintenance protects your biggest investment and saves money in the long run. Plus, you’ll pick up new skills and get the satisfaction of a job well done. If something looks off, fix it now—problems don’t solve themselves.
At HomePro Inspections, our home inspectors are trained to inspect the areas addressed in this article. Any issues are documented in your home inspection report and recommended for resolution by qualified professionals.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942 or utilize our online “Schedule Now” feature to set up an appointment.