Growing older is a beautiful event, but as we grow older, we tend to forget things and may even let other things slide entirely. Whether you’re the one growing older or are the caregiver for someone reaching this point in their life, you should look over this list of essential home maintenance you shouldn’t neglect.
Check for Water Damage on Your Windows
When you wash your windows, it’s essential to look them over and ensure they have not sustained any water damage. You can do this by inspecting the interior and exterior trim for signs of rot, moisture build-up, and leaks. If you notice any issues, place caulk over these areas. Doing this task will help prevent issues that’ll cost even more to repair.
Clean Out the Dryer Vent
This is a task we don’t often think to do, but if we don’t clean our dryer vents, a fire can occur. It’s not that the appliance is faulty—it’s that the vents are so clogged with dust and debris that they can’t function properly. Built-up lint and other debris can get caught and clog our vents, which can prevent clothes from drying thoroughly and will have your home smelling bad. You should clean your dryer vent at least twice a year for the best performance and safety.
Inspect and Clean Your Gutters
We don’t particularly enjoy sharing our residences with furry friends unless they’re cats or dogs. Pests and vermin such as rats, squirrels, and even birds can nest in our gutters without making us aware. Prevent this from occurring by cleaning your gutters. Throughout the year, you need to inspect your gutters to help prevent clogs. If you can do this yourself or have family nearby who can help with this task, you should strive to clean your gutters once every six months. Adhering to this schedule should prevent water from leaking into your home and damaging your foundation.
Inspect Your Roof Often
Roofs are what protect us from the elements. You should renovate your roof every 15 to 30 years, depending on the type and material of its shingles. However, many people aren’t aware of how often different types of shingles need to be replaced. The best way to examine your roof is to look for curling and separating shingles, spots that hardly have any shingles, and areas with thinning asphalt.
Inspect for Drips While Doing Dishes
After you have finished washing your dishes, make sure to turn the faucet off completely. We often don’t consider this when working with faucets, showers, and toilets. If your faucet or shower is still running or dripping, you’re wasting water. After you do the dishes, open the cabinets under your sink and check for any signs of moisture.
This list of home maintenance you shouldn’t neglect reflects how we can better improve our lives as we grow older. These items, as well as many others, are things that you should remember to check throughout the day and over the next few years. Remember that these home maintenance tasks aren’t only important for single-family homes—they’re necessary for assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and homes in retirement communities as well!