The Care and Keep of Your Lair!
Owning a home doesn’t come with a manual—but wouldn’t it be great if it did? While some lucky homeowners get maintenance guides from their developers, most are left to figure things out through trial and error, and unexpected repair bills. That’s why I’d like to share this handy maintenance timeline, so you can keep your home in peak condition and avoid those dreaded, wallet-draining surprises.
Why Maintenance Matters
Let’s be honest…no one wakes up excited to check their foundation for cracks, but skipping regular maintenance can lead to costly disasters down the road.
Note: The most overlooked areas are often foundations and mould—two things you really don’t want to ignore!
Keeping up with routine inspections and minor fixes not only protects your investment but also saves you from future headaches.
Monthly Must-Do’s
Think of these as the little things that keep your home running smoothly:
Replace your furnace filter (if you don’t have central AC, only do this during operation months).
Clean your kitchen range hood filter—grease buildup is NOT your friend.
Test smoke and CO detectors.
Clear out sink and tub drains (use a fine mesh drain insert instead of harsh liquid drain cleaners).
Wash hardwood floors and clean showerheads to prevent buildup.
Pro Tip: Set a recurring reminder! Knock these out in one afternoon, and enjoy a smoothly running home.
Semi-Annual Checkups (Spring & Fall)
Twice a year, give your home a more thorough once-over:
Replace smoke and CO detector batteries.
Inspect your attic for leaks, rodents, or insulation issues.
Check windows, doors, and caulking for wear.
Clean your baseboard heater grills and air return ducts.
Pull out appliances like the fridge and stove to clean behind them.
A little effort now prevents costly repairs later. Plus, who doesn’t love the satisfaction of a freshly vacuumed fridge coil?
Annual Deep Dives
Spring and fall are prime times for major home inspections.
Spring into action!
Pressure wash the exterior and check for peeling paint or cracked siding.
Inspect your roof—if you see curling or cracked shingles, call a roofer before leaks become a problem.
Clean and inspect your AC (a garden hose works wonders, just remember to shut off the power first!).
Check for mould in hidden areas—if you spot it, act fast to prevent bigger issues.
Fall for new beginnings!
Test your thermostat before winter kicks in.
Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice damage.
Drain outdoor faucets and have your septic system inspected if you have one.
Long-Term Game Plan
A smart homeowner plans ahead for big-ticket maintenance.
5 Years: Duct cleaning, carpet replacement, and interior repainting.
10 Years: Exterior repainting and refinishing hardwood floors.
15 Years: Possible roof, siding, and laminate flooring replacements.
25 Years: Most windows reach the end of their lifespan.
Saving a little each year for these eventualities makes them way less painful when the time comes.
And Remember!
Skipping home maintenance doesn’t just lead to problems, it leads to EXPENSIVE problems. By following this schedule, you’ll extend the life of your home, boost its value, and avoid last-minute repair stress. Future-you will thank you!
