The Importance of Home Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment and Health

It’s been said that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When it comes to homeownership, this saying couldn’t be more accurate. While purchasing a home is a major milestone, it's important to understand that maintaining it is just as crucial. Regular upkeep is essential for preserving your investment and ensuring that your home remains a safe and comfortable place to live.

Budgeting for Home Maintenance

Before diving into the details of maintaining your home, it’s important to understand the financial aspect. Homebuyers often know that there will be ongoing costs associated with repairs and upkeep, but how much should you set aside? As a general guideline, plan to allocate about 1%-4% of your home's purchase price annually for maintenance and repairs. This can vary depending on the age, condition, and size of your home.

Knowing what to look out for and taking action before issues arise can save you from costly repairs down the road. Here's a breakdown of areas to focus on to keep your home in top shape, from roof to foundation.

Your roof is one of the most important features of your home, protecting it from the elements. Regular roof maintenance is essential for avoiding major damage:

• Roof Cleaning: Moss, pine needles, and other debris can accumulate on the roof, leading to water damage and deterioration. Have your roof cleaned periodically to keep it in good condition.
• Gutters and Downspouts: Keep gutters free of debris to ensure water flows away from your home. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and lead to leaks or damage to the roof.
• Tree Maintenance: Trim trees and vegetation around your home to prevent branches from falling onto your roof. Overhanging branches can also cause wear on the roof and siding due to constant movement in the wind. Additionally, vegetation touching your home can be a fire hazard.
• Attic Inspections: Check your attic for signs of moisture intrusion, such as black stains on the ceiling. Moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot.
• Roof Intersections and Seals: Inspect roof valleys (where the roof meets walls or chimneys) for damage, and check seals around plumbing and vent pipes.

Water & Sewer: Ensure Clean and Safe Water Flow

Water damage and plumbing issues can be costly and disruptive, so it’s important to maintain your water systems:

• Water Heater Maintenance: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup, which can affect efficiency and longevity. Check for signs of corrosion or moisture around pipes coming in and out of the water heater. 
• Water Filters: Change water filters regularly to ensure clean drinking water.
• Well Water Testing: If your home is on a well, test the water quality annually.
• Septic System Maintenance: For homes with septic tanks, ensure they are pumped every few years to avoid blockages or system failure. Avoid putting inappropriate items, like food waste or chemicals, into the septic system, as they can disrupt the natural processes.

Exterior: Protect Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Your home’s exterior is constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause wear over time:

• Exterior Paint: Repainting your home’s exterior every 5-10 years is a good rule of thumb. Darker colors tend to fade faster, and the south and west sides of the house are usually more prone to wear.
• Window and Door Seals: Check the glazing on older windows and the weather stripping around doors. Gaps can lead to drafts and increased energy costs.
• Garage Door Seals: If you notice light peeking through the bottom of the garage door, it’s time to replace the weather stripping. This helps keep pests out and improves energy efficiency.
• Wooden Structures: Inspect decks, fences, and other wooden outdoor features for signs of decay or discoloration, which could indicate a lack of proper weatherproofing.

Interior: Ensuring Comfort and Efficiency

Maintaining your home’s interior systems is key to comfort and efficiency:

• HVAC and Furnace Filters: Change your HVAC and furnace filters monthly to ensure proper airflow and prevent dust buildup, which can affect air quality.
• Duct Cleaning: If your home has ductwork, have it cleaned periodically to remove dust and allergens.
• Basement or Crawl Space: Regularly check basement or crawlspace walls, floors, concrete and masonry for signs of water intrusion, cracking, deterioration or heaving. Ensure that water is being directed away from your foundation to avoid costly foundation issues.

The True Cost of Neglecting Home Maintenance

Avoiding regular maintenance may save you a little money in the short term, but it can lead to significant expenses down the road. Here are some ballpark repair costs to consider for 2024:

• Appliance Repair: $150 - $300+
• HVAC Repair: $450 +
• Pest Control: $40 - $75 per month; one-time treatments can cost $200 - $500+
• Furnace Replacement: $7,000 - $12,000+ (depending on heating/cooling needs)
• Termite Treatment: $1,500+
• Roof Replacement: $10,000 - $30,000+ (cost depends on roof type and repairs needed)
• Foundation or Crawlspace Repair: $4,500 - $10,000+
• Septic Pumping: $500 - $600+ or around $1 per gallon

Hot Tips for Saving Money and Time

Home Warranty

Consider investing in a home warranty—especially if your appliances or systems are older. A home warranty can save you from costly repairs or replacements by covering the repair costs of certain home systems. It’s a common misconception that home warranties are only available during the purchase or sale of a home. In fact, you can purchase a warranty for your home at any time. Learn more about home warranties in this helpful article from Progressive Insurance: Home Warranty 101.

Professional Inspections

If the thought of inspecting your home yourself seems overwhelming, hiring a home inspector is a great way to get a professional assessment. A home inspection can help identify areas that need immediate attention, as well as those that can be deferred. This will give you a clear plan of action for maintaining your home.

By staying proactive with your home’s maintenance, you can protect your investment, avoid costly repairs, and ensure your home remains a safe and comfortable place for years to come. Regular upkeep may require some time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it!