With a little easy maintenance throughout the year, homeowners can prevent emergency repairs down the
line. Experts recommend posting a task checklist in a convenient location, such as on the refrigerator
or a corkboard.
"Maintenance is usually a lot simpler than a repair, and a lot more affordable," said Chris
Terrill, CEO of HomeAdvisor, a website offering resources for home repair and improvement projects.
"Keep a checklist handy during the entire year, so you don’t forget any timely tasks."
Here are tasks HomeAdvisor recommends not to forget to complete each year:
• On a quarterly basis, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This is for safety and savings.The
average national cost of repairing fire and smoke damage is $4,195.
• Twice a year, clean gutters and downspouts. To prevent damage, the downspout needs to be free of debris
so it can release water three feet from the home’s foundation. The average national cost of cleaning the
gutter and downspout is $181. However, the average national cost of repairing the foundation of a house
can cost up to 24 times that amount.
• In cooler months, take a day each year to check caulking for cracks, especially around tubs and
showers. Cracks can let in water with no place for drainage, which will cause damage.
• Every fall complete an annual roof inspection to help prevent the need for major repairs or a roof
replacement. The average national cost of hiring a roof inspector is $360, whereas the average cost of
replacing a roof is nearly 19 times that amount.
• Before the dog days of summer, hire a professional to service the HVAC unit. Doing so will increase its
efficiency and prevent a breakdown. The cost of replacing and installing an air conditioning unit can
cost more than 13 times the amount of servicing.
• Annually check for cracks in the grout of tile floors, which can allow water to seep in and cause mold
growth and rot. According to HomeAdvisor’s Cost Guide the average national cost of repairing tile and
grout is $439. However, the cost of testing and removing mold can be four times that.
(Courtesy of StatePoint)