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If you are a homeowner, you have probably forgotten or put off regular maintenance for your home. And you are not the only one. One out of three homeowners cannot afford to pay for emergency repairs, and replacements and almost half have delayed essential home repairs. But ignoring essential maintenance today can lead to higher costs down the line.
Potential buyers often get home inspections in Provo before buying a property. Small things like a clogged gutter can lead to water seeping into the roof and foundations. Peeling paint can lead to rot setting in.
And these problems will come up in the inspection should you decide to sell, lowering the value of your home. Simple fixes can prevent small issues from becoming a larger, more expensive one.
- Check the power outlets
Always inspect the condition of the power outlets in your home. With regular use, some of them will wind up dead. If you find that some of your outlets are nonfunctional, hire a professional electrician to get them fixed.
- Replace a dead doorbell
It may seem like a small thing, but a dead doorbell signals to possible buyers that more significant problems are afoot. It is one of the first things people notice, and that small detail can indicate that there are other things you have forgotten to maintain as well.
- Clean the exhaust fans
Exhaust fans help draw out moisture and odors in your home, especially in rooms without a window. But a clogged exhaust fan cannot do its job correctly and efficiently, and moisture buildup can lead to a mold infestation.
Exhaust fans, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms, should be cleaned at least once a year. Even if it is not clogged, take the time to check the state of the components.
- Replace bathroom grout
Bathrooms will look more worn-down with time, primarily if the grout is used as a tile filler. With regular use, grout will incur stains and water damage. If you notice tiny crumbs lying around, it is probably time to replace the grout.
For a quick touch-up, a bleach solution can remove stains from grout. But old grout will have to be replaced, especially if it is more than five years old.
- Clear the gutters
Gutters prevent water from entering your home. A clogged drain will only lead to water pooling in your roof and foundation, causing thousands of dollars in water damage. Clear the gutter every four months, or if you notice that water is not flowing from the downspout, whichever comes first. Remove all debris and repair any leaks if found.
- Repaint the exterior
Peeling paint will not only make your home look abandoned and rundown, but it can also introduce moisture into the woodwork. You do not have to repaint the entire house right away, however. Just focus on small portions that are peeling away.
These guidelines will help you maintain your home and prevent small problems from snowballing into a bigger one. If you ever decide to sell your home, basic maintenance will also keep your home’s value from dropping.
