Here, at Elite Construction and Remodel, we understand the importance of a safe, healthy, and comfortable home. However, living in a place as beautiful as Northern California comes with a long list of chores and responsibilities to keep your home properly maintained. The following 5 tips are a great way to protect the value of your home and save you money on future repairs and replacements.
Check your Irrigation System
Regularly check your sprinklers to see if they are pointed in the wrong direction, over-spraying, or leaking. Frequently, sprinklers spray water against the side of a home and over time this can cause damage to the exterior of the house. Overlooking this issue might lead to an increase in damages and result in more expensive problems.
Caulk around Seams
According to the US Department of Energy, caulking is used as a protective seal against air leaks and moisture penetration in both interior and exterior seams. Please note that any exposed exterior seams along the edges of the siding also need to be caulked to prevent siding damage. You might be wondering why you should maintain the caulk around your house? The answer is simple. It will help protect your home from wood rot and prevent further damage costs.
Inspect your Plumbing System
It is important to consistently check your plumbing system by looking underneath faucets, vanities, cabinets, and around toilets for leaks and water stains. We suggest that if you notice a problem with your plumbing system, repair this issue as soon as possible because dry rot is commonly caused by plumbing leaks.
Do not Plant Shrubs too Close
Planting shrubs and other perennial plants around the exterior of your house can be visually appealing, however, it also comes with potential hazards if done incorrectly. The US Department of Agriculture suggests that you avoid planting shrubs too close to your house because shrubs retain moisture, as such, this moisture will accelerate the deterioration of the wood around your house and attract termites.
Examine your Ventilation
To remove excess moisture from the air and keep wood dry, make sure the ventilation of your bathrooms, attic, and kitchen is working properly. The CDC explains that homeowners should look out for mold stains in the bathtub and condensation on the insides of windows. If needed, make the necessary adjustments to maintain fresh and healthy air.
The above suggestions include general house maintenance tips to make sure your home stays structurally sound, maintains low running costs, and retains its full value. If you have any questions, call us at (916) 469-4660 to schedule a consultation with our field representative.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, June 29). Improving ventilation in your home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved July 22, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/improving-ventilation-home.html
US Department of Agriculture. (2002, August). TREE/SHRUB PLANTING PROCEDURES (380TPP). US Department of Agriculture. Retrieved July 22, 2022, from https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/references/Delete/2003-10-06/NE380tpp_794.pdf
US Department of Energy. (n.d.). Caulking. Energy.gov. Retrieved July 22, 2022, from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/caulking
