Of all the investments you will make during your lifetime, your home will generally be the largest purchase; however, just because houses are normally built to last longer than cars or other high-dollar items, does not mean that they won’t lose their value if proper maintenance steps are not taken.
Therefore, for homeowners looking to keep the worth of their houses intact, it’s important to note that while making regular inspections and subsequent repairs is imperative, most are things can be done without professional help.
1.) ROOFS: Forget the ladder—Preliminary roof inspections can be done from the ground with a pair of binoculars by looking for any missing roofing material or loose/bulging shingles. From there, pay attention to the caulking around the vents and chimneys, and take note of any downspouts or gutters which appear clogged. With this, look for deterioration beneath the eves which may indicate signs of mildew or rot, and keep an eye on trees with limbs which may hang too far over the roof. One storm is sometimes all it takes to bring them down.
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2.) WINDOWS: Leaks in your windows can wind up costing you a lot of money when it comes to heating/cooling costs, so make a point to regularly check the condition of the their glazing, frames, and flashing. If the weather stripping appears used, replace it and make sure that your screens are free of holes or tears.
3.) DECKS, PORCHES & BALCONIES: Since these areas are obviously more exposed to the elements and subsequently more prone to deterioration, it’s important to check for secure, rot and corrosion-free building connections. Additionally, when looking for possible loose components, pay attention to cracks in your foundation which may need caulking, and make sure that the pitch of the roof and deck is away from the house.
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4.) DOORS: Much like your windows, your doors should fit and operate well, so keep an eye out for rot around the frame and sills. If the weather-stripping, hinges, mounts or handles appear loose, replace them and make a point to check for the same types of problems with your garage door.
5.) WALLS: One of the best things you can do for your home is to keep an eye on your outdoor siding for loose panels or peeling paint. From there, it’s important to check any wood elements for fungal and insect infestation which may be affecting your exposed horizontal surfaces and corner joints.
In short, while there are obviously a lot of components which may need your vigilance and attention, if you keep on top of them you, you will not only save yourself an abundance of time and money down the road, but you will ensure that the value of your home remains high.
