Maintenance and home repairs help ensure the integrity of the structure
and utility systems (electrical, plumbing, heating, water and gas).
Periodic update of the home's structure to current standards is a must.
Maintain or increase the operational efficiency of systems, such as
heating and cooling before the season changes. Maintenance of the
visual appeal of the property increases it's value. Regular
maintenance decreases the need for costly major rehabilitation or new
home construction. Regular repair and maintenance decrease hazard
potential due to, outdated utility systems, moisture and rot, structural
deterioration and poor or inadequate construction.
Here are some valuable
home maintenance tip and tricks that will help you to maintain your
home.
Fall Maintenance Prepare your home for cooler days
ahead. After the relaxation the summer months, it's time to
prepare your home for the colder days. Please take a moment to
review this important fall maintenance checklist.
Check basement pipes for condensation or dripping, and take
corrective action, for example, reduce humidity and or insulate
cold water pipes.
Check the basement floor drain to ensure the trap contains water.
Refill with water if necessary.
If you have a plumbing fixture that is not used frequently, for
example, a laundry tub or spare bathroom sink, tub or shower
stall, run some water briefly to keep water in the trap.
Vacuum bathroom fan grille.
Disconnect the duct connected to the dryer and vacuum lint from
duct, the areas surrounding your clothes dryer and your dryer’s
vent hood outside.
Check security of all guardrails and handrails.
Check smooth functioning of all windows and lubricate as required.
Inspect window putty on outside of glass panes and replace if
needed.
Lubricate door hinges and tighten screws as needed.
Lubricate garage door hardware and ensure it is operating
properly.
Lubricate automatic garage door opener motor, chain, etc. and
ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is properly adjusted.
Check and replace damaged caulking and weather-stripping around
windows and doorways, including the doorway between the garage and
the house.
Check exterior wood siding and trim for signs of deterioration;
clean, replace or refinish as needed.
Check for and seal off any holes in exterior cladding that could
be an entry point for small pests, such as bats, squirrels.
Remove any plants that contact, or roots that penetrate the siding
or brick.
Sweep chimneys connected to any wood-burning appliance or
fireplace, and inspect them for end-of-season problems.
Repair driveway and walkways as needed.
Repair any damaged steps that present a safety problem