Taking care of your house is not just about fixing things that break or replacing worn-out items. It is about actively preventing issues before they escalate into major problems. By investing a little time and effort into regular maintenance, you can save yourself from costly repairs down the line.
Think of it as giving your house a regular check-up. Just like you visit the doctor for preventive care, your house also needs attention to stay in good shape. By identifying and addressing small issues early on, you can prevent them from becoming significant headaches later. If you are a first-time homeowner then you may not know where to start or the extent of what needs to be done. In our latest podcast episode, we lay out all the major and minor maintenance chores you should be doing to ensure your home stays in good shape.
Below we have listed an extensive maintenance checklist and if you are curious to hear more details give our latest podcast episode a listen below!
Interior Maintenance
Let's start from the inside and work our way out!
The interior of your house is the heart and soul of your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for you and your loved ones. Ensuring that it looks, smells, and feels pleasant is crucial for maintaining a safe and enjoyable living space. Regular check-ups are essential in preserving the comfort and functionality of your home, allowing you to address any issues promptly and prevent them from escalating.
Listed below are all of the interior home maintenance chores to add to your list. Some of the tasks below may not be applicable to your home say if you have ductless heating, don't have a garage, or don't have a fireplace.
Interior Checklist -
- Schedule your HVAC Bi-Annual servicing
- Replacing batteries in all smoke detectors, CM detectors, sump pumps, and sprinkler systems
- Schedule a chimney sweep
- Air and water filter replacements
- Clean out garage door tracks
- Polish or shampoo flooring in high-traffic areas
- Clean out and winterize your plumbing
- Snake your drains
- Switch out all dead lightbulbs
- Readjust all door hinges
- Look for paint cracks
- Looks for caulking deterioration
- Misc:
- Dispose of any flammable materials that may build up in the garage
- Schedule seasonal rug cleaning (especially if you have pets)
- Dust ceiling fans; reverse ceiling fan blades during winter (clockwise) to distribute warm air that rises
- Create a spring cleaning list ahead of time to help motivate you when spring actually comes around
Exterior Maintenance
Moving outside, you'll notice that there is much more to your home than just siding and a yard to maintain.
Your home's exterior is like the first impression it makes on the world. It not only affects the curb appeal of your property but also represents your household, neighborhood, and city. It's essential to maintain the exterior of your home to ensure it looks well-kept and inviting to any welcomed guests.
Imagine driving up to a house with a beautifully landscaped yard, a well-maintained roof, and fresh paint that complements the architectural style. The exterior of your home sets the tone for what lies inside. It creates a sense of pride and ownership, not just for you but for your entire community.
Taking care of the exterior of your home involves various maintenance tasks. Regularly inspecting and repairing your roof ensures that it remains in good condition, protecting your home from the elements. Cleaning and maintaining your gutters prevent water damage and keeps them functioning properly. Fresh paint or well-maintained siding not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also protects the structure of your home from weathering.
Exterior Checklist -
- Check roof for any missing or broken shingles
- Clean gutters
- Check siding for signs of water intrusion or damage
- Seal concrete cracks in your driveway
- Inspect entrances for loose planks or concrete cracks
- Move sprinklers away from exterior siding and cover faucets and hoses before winter
- Make sure exterior outlets are properly covered
- Look for foundation cracks
- Check flashing above windows and doors
- Misc:
- Store all outdoor furniture, toys, and supplies left outside for the coming fall season
- Inspect weather-stripping on all exterior doors and windows
By paying attention to the exterior maintenance of your home, you not only enhance its curb appeal but also contribute to the overall beauty and pride of your neighborhood. It's an investment in your property and the community you belong to. So, take the time to maintain and care for your home's exterior, and you'll be rewarded with a welcoming and well-kept space that reflects your attention to detail and love for your home.
See more: Guide for Maintaining Your Home's Exterior
Need a Hand?
If you've reached the end of this list and you feel overwhelmed, just know you're not alone. While going through your maintenance checklists, you may notice some other home updates you'd like to address like a flooring upgrade or help with a rotting outdoor deck. Our new Home Services division can help you with any project updates and repairs.
