As a homeowner, regular maintenance and inspection of your property keep your home’s value high, while also alleviating the likelihood of major damages eating your wallet. And contrary to what some might think, the annual cost of routine maintenance doesn’t need to be outlandish. According to Discover, homeowners are best served to budget 1% of their home’s value each year for upkeep and repairs around the house. If you’re a homeowner looking to maximize the quality of your investment, this home maintenance checklist can help you get started on caring for your dream property.
Vital Home Maintenance Tips
Look out for a leaky roof
Roof replacement is dreadful for most homeowners. But with inclement Pennsylvania weather conditions looming, taking care of your roof issues can increase its lifespan and the value of your home. Check your roof to prevent leaks that may cause water damage by inspecting:
– Water stains on your ceiling or interior walls
– Missing or damaged shingles
– Water stains, mold, or black marks along the rafters
Inspect sewers and drains
Sewers and drains can become clogged and damaged, which can quickly cause defective pipes. Housing experts recommend regular checks on sink and washbasin drains to prevent the accumulation of debris. When inspecting the working order of your drainage pipes, you’ll want to focus on:
– Bathroom and kitchen sinks
– Toilets, showers, and tubs
– Floor drains
– Heating systems
If you identify a pipe causing improper drainage, it’s important to call a professional for help as soon as possible. Standing water in your home is not only a damper on a good time; it’s also a way to attract mosquitos, termites, cockroaches, and other pests looking to make your investment their next home!
Inspect window and door seals
Windows and doors, especially those that face outwards, are prone to weather damage, causing the seals around the frame to rot. Weatherstripping – or sealing the gaps around doors, windows, and garage doors — can help keep any nasty, unwanted weather drafts from circulating in your home. When you inspect the condition of your weatherstripping once a year, you’ll be able to keep the cool air in during the summer months and, alternatively, the warm air in during the winter months.
Protect Your Home With Freedom Insurance Group, Inc.
Home maintenance and repairs are one way to protect your home investment, but with homeowners insurance, you can take your coverage to the next level. A homeowners insurance policy can offer protection for your home against a range of risks, no matter if it’s weather-related roof damage, frozen pipe damage, fires, smoke, lightning strikes, or anything in between. At Freedom Insurance Group, we can customize your homeowners insurance plan with additional coverage to protect your property and almost all of your belongings. To get started on crafting your coverage plan, contact us today for your quote.
