Buying a home is a considerable investment, and you must do everything you can to protect that investment. Here are 5 tips for maintaining your home, whether you’re a first-time buyer or a veteran homeowner.
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Check Your HVAC Filters
Homeowners often overlook their HVAC filters, but they play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and decreasing energy costs. Most filters should be replaced every three months, but if you have pets or live in a particularly dusty area, you may need to replace them more frequently. Checking your filters regularly is one of the easiest ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, it’s a simple and inexpensive way to help reduce your impact on the environment. So don’t forget to check those filters!
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Caulk Your Windows.
Homeowners know that many things need to be done to maintain their home and keep it in good shape. One of these things is caulking your windows. You may be wondering why this is necessary or what caulking even is. Caulking is a material used to fill in gaps and cracks, and it is essential in areas with a lot of movement, such as around windows. Over time, the caulking can become old and cracked, which allows air and moisture to enter your home. This can lead to higher energy bills, as well as water damage. Therefore, it is essential to check your caulking regularly and reapply it as needed. You will be glad you took the time to do this simple task when you see the benefits it provides.
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Check Your Weather Stripping.
Your home is your castle, so it’s essential to ensure it’s well-insulated against the elements. One often-overlooked area is the weather stripping around doors and windows. This simple property maintenance task can go a long way toward keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
Weatherstripping is typically made of flexible materials like rubber, vinyl, or felt, and it helps to seal the gaps around doors and windows. Over time, weather stripping can compress, crack, or fall off altogether. This can cause drafts and allow heat or air conditioning to escape, driving up your energy bills. Inspect your weather stripping regularly and replace it as needed. It’s a quick and easy fix that can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and efficiency.
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Check Your Crawl Space for Moisture.
Homeowners often overlook their crawl spaces when it comes to maintenance. However, these areas can be susceptible to moisture, leading to several problems. For example, excess water can promote the growth of mold and mildew, cause wood rot, and attract pests. As a result, it’s essential to check your crawl space for signs of moisture regularly. Look for pooled water, condensation on surfaces, or musty odors. If you notice any red flags, take steps to dry out the area and improve ventilation. Keeping your crawl space dry can help prevent many costly problems down the road.
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Reseal Your Deck.
One of the best ways to protect your deck is to reseal it regularly. This will help extend your deck’s life by preventing water and sun damage. It would help if you reseal your deck every year or as needed. To reseal your deck, you must first clean it and repair any damage. Once the deck is clean and dry, you can apply a sealer with a brush or roller. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. You can keep your deck looking new for years with just a little effort!
Congratulations on your new home! Owning a home is a big responsibility, but it’s also a great feeling. As a first-time homeowner, there are some things you’ll need to do to keep your house in good shape. We’ve put together a list of 5 home maintenance tips for the first-time homeowner, so be sure to bookmark this page and refer to it often. Thanks for reading, and happy homeownership!
