7 Simple Home Maintenance Hacks
One of the best things you can do for your home is getting on top of regular home maintenance.
Regular home maintenance, such as cleaning your gutters and drains, checking your water pipes and valves, and inspecting your roof and foundation for cracks and easy repairs can help you avoid more costly issues down the road. By getting on top of your regular home maintenance, you’ll be able to save yourself a lot of money in the long run. Here are seven simple home maintenance hacks for homeowners:
1. Improve timeworn windows
Minor window repairs will help you not only save money on window repairs, but also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Window treatments can add a tremendous amount of value to your home. If they are not thoroughly cared for, they can quickly become outdated and need repair. One of the most common repairs is replacing torn screens with patches, replacing broken window panes, and repairing window sills. You can also seal windows from drafts by caulking around the exterior perimeter of leaky windows, as well as any cracks between the interior trim and the wall.
2. Clean dirt and mildew from siding
Another way to improve the exterior appearance of your home is to clean dirt and mildew from the siding. This simple task can be done with a bucket and some soap. Pour soapy water onto moldy spots and scrub it away with a cloth or sponge. You may need to do this once or twice a year, depending on the severity of your dirt and mildew problem.
3. Fix scuffs and dents in the flooring
This simple flooring hack can save you a lot of money in the long run. Fix scuffs and dents in flooring using a foam roller and duct tape. First, gently roll the area with the foam roller. This will smooth out the surface and remove any bumps. Then, use duct tape to cover the places you want to protect. This will keep the flooring from moving and making squeaking noises.
4. DIY driveway sealing
To keep your driveway sound and protect it from rain and snow, seal it yourself. Driveway sealing is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few hours. Do so by first clearing any debris from the area. This will help the sealer adhere to the driveway surface. Next, pour a small amount of sealer onto a clean, dry surface, and use a paint brush or applicator pad to distribute the sealer evenly. Finally, wait for the sealer to dry before parking on the driveway.
5. Patch holes in drywall
One of the most straightforward home maintenance hacks is patching drywall holes. If there is a hole in the drywall, you can use a spackling gun to fill the gap and then paint over it. This will keep the wall looking clean and new without spending money on a new piece of drywall.
6. Seal and fill foundation cracks
Tiny cracks in your foundation can cause water and mold to enter your home, which can be a severe health hazard. Smaller foundation cracks left untended can also lead to structural damage to your home. To prevent this problem, get on top of smaller cracks by sealing them with an injection epoxy sealer.
7. Prevent an expensive roof repair
Over time, roofs can become damaged and start to leak. This can lead to an expensive repair bill if not caught early. There are a few simple ways to prevent this from happening. One is to check for signs of water damage. If you see any signs of water damage, be sure to call a professional immediately. Water damage can cause roofs to leak, and repairs may be necessary even if there are no visible signs of leakage. Another way to prevent an expensive roof repair is to maintain your roof regularly by repairing any broken shingles, removing tree debris, and repairing broken gutters and gutter guards. You can also install a weatherproofing system on your roof to help protect it from rain and snow. This system will help keep moisture out of your roof and prevent damage from ice or snow.