Essential Home Maintenance Checklist
Maintaining your home can seem like a full-time job, and the best way to stay on top of its maintenance is with a monthly and seasonal checklist.
Maintaining regular home maintenance can protect its value and ensure its safety, and this comprehensive checklist contains weekly tasks as well as monthly and yearly projects to get you started.
1. Check the Roof
Check that your roof is clear of debris and in good condition, using ladders if necessary to inspect gutters and chimney for signs of wear or damage. Also inspect gutters and chimney for wear-and-tear issues as you move along your inspection of each section of roof.
Reseal all tile grout to keep water and dirt out of between tiles and extend their lives, as well as to re-caulk tubs and showers as necessary.
2. Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water that causes lasting damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Clean them regularly in order to avoid this scenario.
Make sure to use an appropriate ladder, working alongside someone, as uneven footing or careless passersby can increase the risk of falling off if left alone on an uneven surface. Also ensure you have a bucket handy to capture debris.
3. Inspect the Windows
As temperatures begin to warm up, it is time to open your windows and welcome in some fresh air. But before doing so, be sure your windows are in good condition first.
Search for cracks or chips in the glass, fogginess between double-pane windows and any deterioration around their frames. Also check if they open and close smoothly – if not, lubricating may be needed for their tracks.
4. Inspect the Gutters
Clogged or damaged gutters can cause serious water damage to a roof, cornice or home itself. Look out for leakage at gutter hangers or seams; as well as signs of wear such as rusting, peeling paint or staining that indicate their condition.
Make sure that any downspouts are well away from the home to prevent foundation damage or flooding issues, and add downspout extenders as necessary.
5. Inspect the Gutters
Gutter problems can cause water leakage and structural damage, so to avoid these issues you should regularly inspect your gutters using a ladder and visually examining them.
Biological growth such as moss and lichen can compromise the integrity of your roof, so to protect its integrity remove any visible growth from your gutters using a garden hose. From a safe ladder inspect your roof for any signs of damage.
6. Clean the Gutters
Gutter systems divert rainwater away from foundations and walls, providing protection from damage. To keep them functioning effectively, gutters must remain clear of obstructions such as leaves and other debris. To keep working optimally, make sure yours are free from obstructions such as clogs.
Clogged gutters make it easier for ice dams to form, leading to leaks and water damage. Make sure you regularly inspect them during heavy storms for potential blockages; using a garden hose flush your gutters may also be useful as a method for testing their cleanliness.
7. Clean the Gutters
Gutter cleaning should be part of routine home maintenance tasks at least twice per year, to prevent gutters becoming clogged with dirt, leaves, twigs and animal waste that has collected.
Work on a clear and warm day when it is safe to climb a ladder. At each corner, clean out gutters manually or using a gutter scoop and flush downspouts with water to ensure maximum effectiveness.
8. Clean the Gutters
An effective gutter system channels water from your roof and siding away from the house, but if it becomes clogged with dirt, leaves, twigs and debris it can cause moisture issues that lead to serious structural damage in both walls and foundation.
For gutter cleaning, utilize a garden hose fitted with a high-pressure nozzle and an easily accessible ladder. Have someone stay nearby to support and help steady the ladder, as well as manage foot traffic.
9. Clean the Gutters
Gutters are essential in diverting rainwater and melting snow away from roofs, siding, foundations and other home elements, but gutters that have become blocked with debris or are in disrepair may cause significant damage.
Just a few DIY steps can keep your gutters in working condition. However, should repairs or maintenance require access via ladder, consider hiring professionals instead.
10. Clean the Gutters
Gutters play an essential role in redirecting rainwater and snowmelt away from homes, but clogged gutters can allow excess water to seep underneath your siding and into the foundation, posing a significant threat.
To effectively clean gutters, you’ll require a ladder and dump bucket. Choose a day with mild weather and find an undisrupted area in which to set up the ladder; remembering to wear durable work gloves, long-sleeved shirt and safety glasses is recommended for optimal performance.