Maintenance Checklist for Your Home

Just like your vehicle, your home needs a regular maintenance checkup to preserve the structure. Below are listed some suggestions on what to look for when doing a maintenance check.

Foundation and Basement

* Check for any signs of termites.
* Check out the level of the ground to make sure that any water will drain away from the outside walls of your home.
* After a period of wet weather, check your basement for signs of dampness or any leaking.

Doors and Windows

* Check to make sure the doors, windows and trim are completely finished.
* Check all the caulking around the openings.
* Make sure there are no broken windows or any damage to your screens.
* Oil, or otherwise lubricate the hardware on your doors and windows.
* Weather stripping around any doors needs to fit tight.

External Walls

* Check for cracks and any loose joints.
* Check for any decay on the outside siding and trim on the house.

Roof

* Check the roof for any loose or damaged shingles
* Check the inside walls for water damage that may be caused from a leaking roof.
* Clean your gutters regularly and check for any damage.
* Make sure there are no birds making a nest in your vents.

Interior Surfaces

* Check, clean and repair any surfaces in your home.
* Check out the caulking around the sinks, tubs, and showers.

Electrical Wiring

* Check out and repair any damaged cords or plugs.
* Check for any damage on any exposed wiring.
* If fuses are blown frequently, have someone make any repairs
* If an appliance gives you a tingling shock when in use, unplug and make any necessary repairs.

Heating and Cooling

* Clean the dirt off your furnace filter and air ducts and grills.
* At least once a year have your heating and cooling system checked by a professional.

Plumbing

* Check all the faucets and valves for leaking.
* Have your water heater checked out.
* Check the roof vent for any build up of ice and snow in cold weather.

In your Yard

* Before winter, drain the outside water lines and hoses.
* Clean out the storm drains and the window wells.
* Clean up and make repairs to equipment used on your yard.
* Check out the driveway and sidewalks for cracks and erosion.

Once your checklist is complete, take a break.