How To Be Kind To Your Castle
Congratulations, you’re a homeowner!
You made it through the search, negotiations, and closing.
Now it’s time to take good care of one of the most important purchases of your life.
You may be wondering where to start.
From roof to basement and all around the property, proper home maintenance saves you money and effort, and increases property value. I recommend that both my seller and buyer clients pay close attention to regular house and garden upkeep.
Remembering to notice the outdoor features that surround your home - like trees and shrubs - and perform routine care will protect your major asset from damage and insurance claims, at the same time that it increases your residence’s curb appeal and helps keep your property value at its peak.
A convenient way to manage maintenance is to schedule certain tasks seasonally or for specific times of the year.
For example, some general home maintenance advice includes the following items.
At least biennially, before the spring rainy season, you might like to book a plumber or sewer contractor to check your sump pump and sewer lines and service them if necessary. Doing so on a schedule can prevent costly emergency plumbing calls and save you stress by helping to protect your home from unexpected flooding.
Driveway cracks can be repaired and sealed in warm, dry months to prevent moisture seepage and prolong the life of your drive.
Smoke detectors can be tested and batteries replaced annually on a particular holiday that will help you remember the date.
In areas with trees, gutters can be cleared and cleaned in both spring and autumn seasons. You may wish to consult with an arborist annually to be sure your home and utility supplies remain secure from tree-related storm damage - as well as to maintain healthy trees that add to your property’s appeal and value. Keeping fallen leaves and other gardening season debris cleared away from the foundation of your house will help prevent rot and pest damage. In the summer months, landscaping can be graded to provide good drainage away from your foundation.
Servicing heating systems and chimneys that are in use is generally recommended before each heating season.
Before freezing outdoor temperatures, water supplies can be shut off to exterior faucets to prevent frozen pipes; and attics or crawl spaces can be properly insulated with adequate ventilation to prevent roof ice dams. Proper insulation throughout the entire home can save energy usage and costs year round. Mass Save is a useful, free-to-homeowner program that can help with energy assessment and rebates for improvements.
With a little knowledge and attention, you will reign comfortably and securely in your castle throughout the seasons!