Overwhelmed at the thought of owning and caring for your own home? It is a big responsibility – but it’s a big responsibility that comes with huge rewards. The right repair tools and good home maintenance tips can turn this “big responsibility” into a road to the easy life. Stick to the home maintenance basics on a month to month basis and run through seasonal home maintenance checklists as the seasons change. You may find that the rewards for maintaining your new home far outweigh any of the difficulty you may have feared.
It is similar to visiting a doctor. You can wait for a medical catastrophe to force you to seek assistance from a healthcare professional, but most find it more advantageous (and pleasant) to consult with a doctor regularly. It allows them time to address small issues before they escalate into dangerous problems. Regular checkups are just like routine maintenance of your home. Regular, routine home maintenance can help homeowners to prevent costly repairs in the home and keep new homes looking just as fabulous as they did on closing day.
Routine Maintenance: This can be as simple as keeping an eye on things around your home and completing monthly home improvement projects so it’s easier to follow the planned maintenance schedule. Sticking to a schedule or “routine” in home maintenance saves homeowners time and money.
Monthly Routine Maintenance Checklist:
- The Air/Furnace Filter: Some filters suggest replacement monthly while others suggest longer periods of time. Lennar recommends purchasing the less expensive filters and replacing them monthly. At a minimum, remove any dust build up on a monthly basis. This will maximize the ability of your heating/cooling systems to regulate the home’s temperature as well as decrease utility costs.
- The Water Softener: If your home has a water softener, check monthly to see if the salt needs to be replenished.
- Faucet Aerators & Showerheads: Clean any faucet aerators and showerheads. Pay particular attention to the removal of any mineral deposits that could eventually build up and block water flow.
- Drains: Inspect both tub and sink drains for any debris so they can be unclogged.
- Range Hood: Clean the range hood filters/pan to avoid build up that could prevent proper functioning.
- Kitchen Disposal: Make sure the disposal is clean and clear of any possible buildup. (For those who aren’t sure how to clean a disposal, try running vinegar ice cubes through the mechanism).
Spring Seasonal Maintenance Checklist:
- Roofing: Inspect the roof for any missing, damaged or loose shingles as well as any leaks.
- Smoke Detectors/CO Detectors: Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as necessary.
- Windows, Screens & Siding: Clean the home’s windows, screens and siding. Power-washing may be the most efficient method for windows and siding, but would probably be too powerful for screens.
- Light Fixtures & Large Furniture: Thoroughly dust and polish light fixtures and large furniture throughout the home. Spring’s natural light makes it easy to see the dust that has gathered in inconspicuous places throughout the home.
- Outdoor Projects: This is the time to start the next outdoor home improvement project: the new flower bed that has been under discussion, refinishing the deck, painting the gazebo, etc.
- Gutters & Downspouts: Remove any leaves/debris collected in the gutters or downspouts.
- Caulking: Inspect the caulking for any sinks, showers, or baths for deterioration.
- Dryer Vent: Vacuum lint from the dryer vent.
Sticking to the routine of monthly and seasonal maintenance makes it easier for homeowners to get to know their new home and keep the different systems in the home running smoothly.
For additional hints and tips on how to maintain your new Lennar home, please visit www.Lennar.com.
