9 Tips for Maintaining a Salem, OR House

January 20, 2023

Do you own a Salem house in Oregon? If so, congratulations! Salem is a beautiful city with much to offer to its residents.

However, while the city is beautiful and friendly, your home is still subject to a lot of wear and tear over the years – especially in the harsh Oregon sun.

It is important to take good care of your home. After all, it has taken care of you even longer!

Here’s a short guide on what you need to know to keep your home in tip-top condition throughout your ownership. Keep reading for all the details!

1. Preparation for Inspections in Salem, OR

The home must be clean and organized. Check for any safety hazards, such as exposed wiring or mold. Make sure all windows and doors are in proper functioning order.

Have access to the attic, basement, and crawl spaces cleared so that the inspector can easily access the home. Repair any visible damages or leaks to the home and check your HVAC system to ensure it is running properly.

Have all documents related to ownership, renter documents, builder information, insurance, and other relevant documents ready. Do not forget to clear any yard debris and clean up any outdoor clutter that could impede the inspector.

2. Establishing a Routine Maintenance Schedule

Determine the major systems in the house, including the electric, plumbing, and HVAC systems. It is wise to develop a checklist of items that should be serviced or checked regularly and then adhere to that schedule.

Homeowners should look for minor signs of wear and tear, such as cracked or faulty seals, drips and leaks, and rusting or loose screws. It is also important to inspect decks, roofs, and gutters to ensure they are in good condition.

Regularly vacuuming and dusting can also help keep a home in pristine condition. Finally, seeking a professional’s advice can help ensure that a Salem OR house is running smoothly and efficiently.

3. Combatting Moisture and Humidity Damage

Inspecting the house for any signs of previous water damage such as water stains or yellowing of paint. Check for any visible potential sources of water damage, such as plumbing leaks or water seeping from walls.

Ensure to keep gutters, downspouts, and drains clear of debris and plants to minimize the possibility of water entering the building. Consider taking seasonal proactive measures like adding or replacing insulation or weather stripping to ensure the house is protected from humidity and moisture.

Implementing preventive maintenance into your home’s upkeep and staying on top of any existing moisture issues is a great way to ensure your house is protected from humidity and moisture damage.

4. Use Solar Panels To Save Energy and Money

One of the best ways to save energy and money while maintaining a Salem, OR, house is by investing in solar panels. Solar panels are a great investment because they will lower electric bills, save on energy costs, and reduce the home’s carbon footprint.

Also, due to Oregon’s generous solar incentives and tax credits, homeowners can save more money over the life of their solar energy system. Solar energy systems typically require very little maintenance and will last many years. Homeowners should consider having their systems professionally installed for greater efficiency and safety.

Even after installation, homeowners should periodically inspect their system to make sure it’s in perfect working order and that the panels themselves remain clean and free from dirt and debris. If you are looking for the best solar installer, check this out.

5. Securing Insurance and Regulations

When it comes to securing insurance and regulations in a Salem OR home, there are several important steps to take. First, homeowners should research the local building and safety regulations to ensure their home meets all safety requirements.

It is also important to understand the different types of insurance coverage necessary to protect the property and those who live there. Depending on the local area, homeowners may need to purchase homeowners, flood, and earthquake insurance.

Taxes must be paid regularly and consistently to ensure compliance with laws. Finally, and most importantly, homeowners should check in with their insurance provider regularly to discuss coverage levels, deductibles, and other policy terms.

6. Dealing With Pests in a Salem House

To prevent pests from invading and wreaking havoc on your Salem properties, homeowners should take a few essential steps. First and foremost, keep your house clean and tidy.

Keep an eye out for signs of pests: droppings, trails, dead bodies, nests, and bad smells, to name a few. Finally, exercise caution when it comes to preventing pests from entering your home.

Seal up cracks and screen windows and doors well. Ensure that all food is stored in tightly sealed containers and be wary of items entering the house.

7. Investing in Quality Materials to Shield Against Weather Extremes

High-quality materials should be used for all building surfaces to protect the home from extreme temperatures and precipitation. Roofing material should be of high quality to stand against wind, rain, and sunlight.

Windows and doors should be efficient and have weather stripping to limit air infiltration. Proper drainage systems should be installed around the foundation to prevent flooding or water damage.

8. Strategizing Your Salem Home’s Landscaping and Exterior Upkeep

Plan to save yourself time and money by utilizing native plants and drought-tolerant shrubs and trees. Plant shrubs in boxed beds and choose foliage that is easy to care for, such as ornamental grasses, to require less maintenance.

Invest in a good lawn mower and keep blades sharp to reduce water waste while mowing. Water your lawn and gardens infrequently but deeply, and consider adding manual, sustainable lawn irrigation.

9. Consider Window Treatment

The right window treatments can create a cozy atmosphere and add to a home’s style and decor. Window treatments can also help protect against heat, light, and noise. Different types of window treatments, such as curtains and blinds, come in a variety of:

colors
materials
design styles

This allows homeowners to choose something that works for their home and reflects their taste. Installing proper window treatments can also help with energy efficiency, reduce costs, and increase the value of a home.