5 Home Maintenance Tips For Your New Home

New Home? You Need To Do These 5 Maintenence Tips

You just got the keys, or you are just about to.. so first of all, congratulations on your new home! This is a big accomplishment and very exciting to have a place all your own. While we know the excitement is still new and you’re trying to sort through a hundred boxes, we wanted to remind you of a few important things to do after you move in. One of the most important things new homeowners can do is to keep up with home maintenance.

It can be easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of unpacking and decorating, but maintaining your home is crucial to keeping it like-new and preserving its market value. So today, we are going to share the top 5 home maintenance tips for your new home.

1. Inspect the roof and gutter system for damage.

2. Change the air filters every 3 months.

3. Check the windows and doors for leaks quarterly.

4. Clean the chimney and fireplace annually.

5. Get a termite/rodent inspection every year or bi-annually.

Of course, the list could be much longer, and we will touch on a few other things later on. However, for now, we wanted to keep it at the 5 most important things to do to keep your home running smoothly. Keep reading to learn more about why these are the most important and how to check them off your list the right way.

Inspecting The Roof And Gutters

Your roof and gutters are two of the most important parts of your home when it comes to maintenance. Not only do they protect your home from the elements, but they also play a role in keeping your energy bills low. Checking for damage regularly and fixing any issues as soon as possible is key to maintaining a healthy roof and gutter system.

To check your roof, you will want to look for any missing, cracked, or curling shingles. You should also check the flashing around vents and chimneys to ensure it is still securely in place. In terms of gutters, you will want to make sure they are free of debris and that the downspouts are draining properly. If you notice any issues, be sure to call a professional to come and take a look. you will want to inspect your roof and gutters about twice a year to be on the safe side.

Changing The Air Filters

You might not think about your air filters very often, but changing them is one of the easiest and most important things you can do to maintain your home. Most experts recommend changing them every three months, but if you have pets or allergies, you might need to change them more often.

Not only will changing your air filters help to improve the quality of the air in your home, but it will also help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This can save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your HVAC system. To change your air filter, simply locate it (it is usually in the return air duct or near the furnace), and replace it with a new one of the same size.

Checking The Windows And Doors

Another important part of maintaining your home is checking the windows and doors for leaks. This is something you will want to do quarterly, or at minimum twice a year. Checking for leaks is important because it can help you to prevent water damage, drafts, and high energy bills.

To check your windows and doors for leaks, you will want to start by checking the weatherstripping. If the weatherstripping is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced. You should also check around the windows and doors for any cracks or gaps. If you find any, you will want to use caulk to seal them. If you have bought an older home with original windows and doors then you will want to be extra diligent in checking for leaks and cracks.

Cleaning The Chimney And Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, it is important to have the chimney cleaned at least once a year. This is something that you can do yourself if you have the proper equipment, but we recommend hiring a professional. They will be able to clean the chimney more thoroughly and spot any potential problems.

In addition to cleaning the chimney, you should inspect the fireplace for any cracks or damage. If you notice any issues, be sure to call a professional to come and take a look. You don’t want to risk damaging your fireplace or causing a fire.

Even if you don’t actively use the fireplace, it is still important to maintain it. If you plan on selling your home, a fireplace is a big selling point and can increase the value of your home.

Pest Inspections And Control

Last but not least, you will want to have your home inspected for pests on a regular basis. This is especially important if you live in an area that is prone to pests. Pest inspections can help to identify any potential problems so that they can be dealt with before they become a bigger issue.

Of course, every home will have the occasional spider, fly, or ant, but other pests like termites, rodents, or roaches can cause serious damage to your home. If ignored or undetected, they can also quickly multiply and become a big problem.

Depending on the type of pest and the severity of the infestation, there are a variety of methods that can be used for pest control. This is something that you will want to discuss with a professional to ensure that you are using the best method for your particular situation.

Other Notable Home Maintenence Tips

Now that we’ve covered the main 5 tips for maintaining your new home, here are a few other things to keep in mind and check off at least twice a year.

Maintaining Appliances (regular cleaning works wonders)
Upkeep Plumbing (fixing leaks and treating mold right away)
Trimming Trees and Shrubs (prevent potential structural damage from overgrown branches)
Keeping All Smoke Detectors Current and Working
Taking Care Of Hardwood Floors (avoid costly repairs by repairing and mopping regularly)

Of course, there are plenty of smaller daily or weekly maintenance habits that are good to adopt as well, like regularly sweeping and vacuuming floors, wiping down countertops and appliances, etc. But these five home maintenance tips are a great starting point for making sure your new home stays in good condition for years to come! We hope you enjoyed this article and are ready to take care of your new home, thanks for reading!