The 9 Most Overlooked Home Maintenance Tasks That Will Cost You Later
If you own your home, there are some things that continuously are pushed to the side for more urgent tasks. However, neglecting home maintenance can wind up costing you way more money when it’s all said and done. It’s important for homeowners to remember that regular upkeep will preserve your home’s value and potentially save you money. So, here’s a look at nine of the most overlooked home maintenance tasks that could wind up costing you a fortune.
1. Ignoring Gutter Cleaning
Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow, damaging your roof, walls, and even your home’s foundation. Leaves, twigs, and debris can create blockages that lead to leaks and water stains inside your home. Cleaning gutters at least twice a year can prevent these costly repairs. Investing in gutter guards can also help minimize the need for frequent cleanings. It’s important to remember that water damage isn’t just expensive to fix—it can also lead to mold growth, which is a health hazard.
2. Skipping HVAC Maintenance
This is something my wife and I were recently laughing about. When we first started dating, she rented a room in a house with a few other women. I visited one weekend in July (in North Carolina, so it was hot). Their air conditioning was out and no one could figure out why. It wound up just being a dirty duct in the house – something that should be checked on a regular basis. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system needs regular maintenance to run efficiently. Ignoring it can lead to higher energy bills and eventual breakdowns. Make sure you are changing the air filters at least every three months. It’s also a good idea to schedule annual inspections on your system.
3. Forgetting to Check the Water Heater
Water heaters often go unnoticed until they stop working or start leaking. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan. Draining the tank annually can prevent this buildup and help it run more efficiently. Leaks or strange noises are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to water damage or even a burst tank. It’s a good idea to insulate the tank and pipes, which can improve efficiency and help you save on energy costs.
4. Overlooking Roof Inspections
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, yet it’s often out of sight and out of mind. Missing shingles, cracked flashing, or small leaks can lead to significant water damage if not addressed promptly. Scheduling an inspection at least once a year, especially after storms, can help catch issues early. DIY inspections from the ground with binoculars can also help spot visible damage. You should also ensure your roof is free of moss and debris, which can collect water.
5. Neglecting Caulking and Sealing
Cracked or missing caulk around windows and doors can lead to drafts and higher energy bills. Gaps also allow moisture to seep in, which can cause wood rot and mold growth. Reapplying caulk annually is a simple and inexpensive way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Choose the right type of caulk for each surface to ensure a long-lasting seal. Even small gaps can significantly impact heating and cooling costs over time.
6. Ignoring Exterior Paint and Siding
Peeling or cracking paint isn’t just an eyesore—it exposes your home to moisture, which can lead to wood rot and structural damage. Regularly inspecting and touching up exterior paint can prevent these problems. Power washing your siding once a year removes dirt and mold, extending its lifespan. Choosing high-quality, weather-resistant paint also makes a difference in how often you’ll need to repaint.
7. Skipping Dryer Vent Cleaning
Lint buildup in dryer vents is a leading cause of house fires, yet it’s a task many homeowners forget. A clogged vent also forces your dryer to work harder, increasing energy bills and wear and tear on the machine. Cleaning the vent at least once a year can improve efficiency and reduce fire risk. If clothes take longer to dry than usual, it’s a sign the vent may be clogged.
8. Disregarding Sump Pump Testing
A sump pump is your best defense against basement flooding, but it needs regular testing to ensure it’s ready when needed. Pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit can help confirm it’s working properly. Replacing the battery backup every two to three years can prevent failure during a power outage. A failed sump pump during heavy rain can cause thousands of dollars in water damage.
9. Overlooking Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance
Chimneys can accumulate creosote, a highly flammable substance, leading to chimney fires if not cleaned annually. Blockages from bird nests or debris can also cause dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside your home. Hiring a professional to inspect and clean the chimney each year is a wise investment. Cracks in the chimney structure can allow moisture in, causing further damage and expensive repairs.
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Some home maintenance tasks really seem tedious, but ignoring them can lead to significant issues in the future. Make sure that you are taking care of your investment by regularly checking on these parts of your house. Perform regular inspections and keep everything looking clean. In the end, if you decide to sell, your regular maintenance will increase your home’s overall value. Not to mention, you could be saving yourself a lot of heartache (and money) in the long run.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.