A house is a significant investment. It’s something you want to last for generations. When most people think about home improvement, their minds jump straight to thoughts of resale value. And it’s true, making strategic upgrades to your home can pay off when it comes time to sell.
For one, improving your home can improve its safety and security. But more than that, taking care of the basics – from keeping your roof in good repair to ensuring your windows are sealed tight – can help protect one of your most valuable investments for years to come. Here are five top tips for keeping your house in good condition:
Inspect your roof regularly
Your roof protects your entire house, so you want to make sure it’s in tip-top shape. Check for loose or missing shingles and cracked sealant around the chimney flashing. Keep an eye out for any sagging, which could signify more significant structural issues. To ensure the longevity of your roof, have it inspected by a professional every 3-5 years or after intense weather conditions.
In addition to regular inspection, choosing durable materials for your roof would also be wiser. For instance, metal roofs are known to last longer than asphalt shingles and require less maintenance. They are the perfect choice for areas prone to extreme weather conditions and high winds.
Channel water away from your foundation
Water is one of the biggest enemies of your foundation because it can cause cracking, erosion, and settling. Ensure your gutters are clean and in good condition to channel water away from your foundation adequately. You should also ensure that the ground slopes away from your foundation at a minimum of 6 inches over 10 feet so that water drains away from your house.
Moreover, installing a foundation drainage system is an effective way to keep water away. This system channels water away from your home’s foundation and pumps it out to the street or nearest storm drain. As a result, it helps to keep your foundation dry and prevent settling.
Maintain your HVAC system
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system works hard to keep you comfortable all year long, so it’s crucial to maintain it well. Replace the filters monthly and have a professional do an annual tune-up so minor problems don’t turn into significant repairs down the road. It also pays to check for any leaks in the ducts to make sure no energy is wasted. Many homeowners are unaware of the energy savings they can get by sealing their ducts.
A well-maintained HVAC system will not only last longer, but it will also run more efficiently, which will save you money on energy bills in the long run.
Keep an eye on the caulk and weather-stripping around doors and windows.
Did you know that a gap of even 1/8-inch around a window or door can let in as much air as leaving a 3×3 foot window open? Over time, caulk and weather stripping wear out, so make sure you check for any cracks, gaps, or holes and reseal them with fresh caulk and high-quality weather stripping.
Caulk and weather stripping are designed to keep out drafts and moisture, but they can deteriorate over time. They are also your home’s first line of defense against pests and insects. So it’s only wise to keep an eye on them for any signs of damage and replace them as needed. Inspect them annually and replace them as necessary to maintain a tight seal against the elements.
Have your home insulated properly
Poor insulation can lead to heat loss and make your home uncomfortable. It also makes your HVAC system work harder, which can increase your energy bills.
Insulation helps keep your home comfortable in hot and cold weather by keeping the heat in or out as needed. It also helps reduce noise pollution from outside traffic or neighborhood activity. By insulating your home, you will actually save money in the long run on energy bills because your HVAC system won’t have to use as much power to maintain a comfortable temperature. Check with a professional to see if your home needs additional insulation—it could be the secret weapon in making your home more durable and strong!
The takeaways
These secrets will help keep your house looking fabulous for years to come! Remember, part of homeownership is maintaining your home to ensure it is structurally sound and resilient. Make sure you check gutters, caulk, weather-stripping, insulation, and your HVAC system regularly to keep your home in top shape. That way, you can enjoy the comfort of your house for many years to come!
