Home Maintenance

Maintaining your home is an important and ongoing responsibility. Here’s a guide to several maintenance checks you, as a homeowner, can make. Call a trusted pro if you need a helping hand.

1) Moisture
Gutters need to be cleaned twice a year to prevent water backing up and causing rot or rust. Check pipes under the house and in the attic on a regular basis; inspect your dishwasher for leaks, too.

2) Emergencies
Be prepared for the worst. Know where the shut-off valves are for your toilets, washing machine, and entire water. Locate the breaker box and any gas shut off valves. Keep a fire extinguisher and a list of emergency contact numbers in one or two easily accessible places.

3) Ongoing
Clean drains, air vents, fan blades, filters, and carpets. Inspect screens, doors, paint, and the overall exterior of your home. Make repairs quickly; do not wait and allow little problems to grow into larger, more costly repairs.

4) Home Safety
Change fire alarm and carbon monoxide batteries regularly. Keep all flammable liquids, supplies, and objects away from open flames and heating units. Develop and practice an emergency evacuation plan with your family.

Home ownership is a great joy, but it comes with a large responsibility for maintaining your investment. Take some time to list out other items you want to maintain and service then chart out a time for scheduled maintenance. A few simple, well-planned steps will help your home, sweet, home look great for years to come.