Preventive Home Maintenance Tips
By Wednesday 24 June 2015
Preventative maintenance now can save a lot of time and money later. Here is a handy routine maintenance check list that is ideal to keep on hand.
Fall
- Remove screens and install storm windows and doors.
- Clean window wells, debris from under decks & porches.
- Shut off water to, and drain all exterior pipes, hoses, hose bibs, and valves.
- Test sump pumps.
Bi-annually Spring/Fall
- Masonry chimneys should be inspected for loose mortar, cracked or broken pieces, metal chimneys should be inspected for rust, missing rain caps and that the storm collars or properly caulked, and metal flashing's need to be checked for leaks. Signs of moisture penetration i.e.: efflorescence, should be further investigated by a qualified professional.
- Roofs should be inspected for missing, loose or damaged shingles. Check high wear areas (valleys, heavy weather side) for missing granules. Check all flashing's and caulking for damage or leaks. Flat roofs need to be checked for shifting, or missing gravel, blistering, cracks and standing water. Keep all trees and branches well back from the roof.
- Gutters and down spouts should be cleaned of debris and flushed with water, be sure to disconnect the down spouts from the perimeter drainage first. Make sure all gutters and down spouts are securely fastened and properly connected.
- Inspect soffits and Fascia for damage, and signs of birds, rodents or insects.
- Exterior walls should be checked for any signs of damage or rot. Note any signs of settlement.
- Check fences and retaining walls for rot, insects, and/or shifting.
- Check toilets for leaks and that they are well secured to the floor.
- Clean all faucet aerators and shower heads.
- Clean debris from all drains (including floor drains, exterior catch basins & sumps), and replace seals if necessary.
- Flush all fixtures with baking soda and hot water.
- Check all accessible supply side plumbing for leaks.
- Check all accessible DWV (drain/waste/vent) plumbing for leaks.
- Inspect foundation walls, basements & crawl spaces for moisture penetration (efflorescence, spalling or blistering of paint) and or cracks.
- Service hot water heating systems.
- Clean or replace range hood filters.
- Check all windows for cracks, loose glazing compound, failed sealed units (condensation in between the panes).
- Check all doors for ease of operation and proper seals on all exterior doors.
Monthly
- Test all Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter breakers and outlets.
- Test garage door closer safety circuit.
- Test smoke detectors.
- Test Carbon Monoxide detectors.
- Test all door / window latches and hardware for proper operation and security, particularly those used for emergency exits.
- Perform a general inspection of all heating/cooling units, clean or replace filters. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. Clean snow and/or debris from exterior units.
- Perform a visual inspection of hot water heater(s) for signs of leaks or rusting.
Unless you are proficient and knowledgeable with hot water tanks, testing the P&T valve and draining any sediment build up on the bottom of the tank is better left to a qualified professional.
- Check all fire extinguishers charge.
- Add water to any floor drains to keep the trap seal intact.
- Flush garburator with baking soda and hot water.