. Household Maintenance photo by Zohair Mirza on Unsplash
I used to dream of owning a home. I disliked renting because I always had to live in a home decorated to someone else’s taste. Most of my past rental homes were magnolia and I couldn’t wait to buy my own home so that I could get rid of the magnolia and put my own stamp on my home.
One thing I didn’t realise though, is just how costly it can be when you are solely responsible for household maintenance. Forget about phoning your landlord. Once you own your home it’s all on you. It’s up to you to fix things, keep things in good repair and pay for it all. This can be quite a shock when you are not used to paying for such things.
But keeping up with household maintenance is essential to preserving your home’s value, ensuring your safety and enhancing your living experience. So it’s important to take proactive steps to maintain your home efficiently. Regular household maintenance will prevent costly repairs down the line and keep your home looking its best.
Photo by Theme Photos on Unsplash
What is Household Maintenance?
Household maintenance is basically all the jobs that you need to do to make sure that your home and all the equipment in it is in good repair and safe. This means doing regular testing and assessing and then taking action depending on what you find.
What Regular Maintenance Does a House Need?
A lot goes into household maintenance. Some jobs are obvious and others not so much. Firstly, you need to make sure your home is secure. Next, you need to make sure it is watertight and then you need to make sure it is safe. Once all these things have been done you should ensure your home is clutter-free and clean.
What Are the Most Important Household Maintenance Tasks?
The most important household maintenance tasks are the ones that ensure your home is safe and secure. These include making sure the roof is in good condition and watertight with no missing or slipped tiles. Check your roof, especially if you have a flat roof, for any signs of damage or leaks. Addressing issues like flat roof repair promptly can prevent more significant problems in the future.
You should also check all the gutters and downpipes to make sure water isn’t causing any damage. Windows and doors should be checked to make sure they can be locked and there is no rot. Exterior brickwork and paintwork should be checked too to look for cracks or peeling.
Next, check your home’s interior to make sure everything is safe and secure. Interior maintenance is just as crucial as exterior upkeep. Check water pipes for leaks or cracks as water damage can lead to mould and structural issues. Check your home’s electrical wiring system, especially if you live in an older home, to ensure it can handle modern appliances and devices safely. Then check all electrical items to make sure they present no major risks.
Ensure your heating system is functioning correctly, and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries in detectors twice a year and consider having a professional service your heating system annually to keep it running efficiently.
A well-maintained garden is also important. It not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but it also prevents issues like pests and drainage problems. Ensure that water flows away from your home’s foundation. Proper grading and the use of downpipes can prevent water from pooling around your house, which can lead to foundation problems. You should regularly mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove any debris. Inspect trees for dead branches that could fall and cause damage.
How Much Maintenance Does a House Need?
Photo by Jon Sailer on Unsplash
How much household maintenance you need to do will vary according to the seasons and different seasons bring different maintenance challenges.
In spring, clean out gutters and downpipes to prevent water damage from spring rains. Check your home’s foundation for cracks that may have developed over the winter.
Summer is a good time to inspect and repair your home’s exterior, including the siding and windows. Paint touch-ups can prevent wood rot and damage.
Autumn is all about preparing for winter. Clean out gutters again to remove fallen leaves, and check your heating system. Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and consider having your chimney inspected and cleaned if you have a fireplace.
In winter, focus on keeping your home warm and dry. Check for drafts around windows and doors and use weather stripping to seal them. Ensure your heating system is running efficiently and keep an eye on your roof for ice dams, which can cause significant damage.
What is the Average Cost of Home Maintenance?
According to the latest UK government data, UK households spend the following amounts on household maintenance:
- £416 per year for home maintenance and repair including central heating repairs, paint, wallpaper, timber, equipment hire, and small materials.
- £353.60 per year for routine household maintenance
- £156 per year for tools and equipment
- £254.80 per year for household insurance
How Do You Keep Track of Household Maintenance?
Keeping your home well-maintained also involves staying organised. Declutter regularly to keep your living spaces tidy and functional. Create a home maintenance calendar to schedule regular tasks and inspections. This can include weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual tasks, ensuring that nothing is overlooked.
You should keep records of all repairs and maintenance work undertaken. This not only helps you stay on top of future tasks but also provides valuable information if you decide to sell your home.
Should You Get Professional Help to Maintain Your Home?
While many maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. A professional home inspection can identify issues you might miss. For instance, hiring a professional for flat roof repair ensures the job is done correctly and can prevent further damage.
Plumbing, electrical work, and significant structural repairs are also best left to experts. Investing in professional services can save you time and money in the long run, ensuring your home remains safe and well-maintained.
Household maintenance requires a proactive approach and regular attention to detail. By conducting regular home inspections, performing seasonal maintenance, caring for your garden, updating your interior, staying organised, and seeking professional help when needed, you can keep your home in excellent condition. These steps will not only enhance your home’s appearance but also preserve its value and ensure a safe and comfortable living environment for you and your family. Stay diligent and make your household maintenance a priority.