Regular Home Maintenance Saves More than a Few Bucks

By: Sumita Roy

Maintenance is the best way you can save your home from any major defaults or damages. Not only should the construction process be good, but the house should also be maintained on a regular basis. A long term of neglect can cause major and expensive repairs. So in order to avoid breaking the bank, I have summarized a few causes of damages and their easy maintenances.

1. Water is one of the main causes. Often an occasional storm or flood can lead to seeping in or flooding in your household. It can go to the extent of weakening the foundation walls of your home via a crack. The best way to avoid such havoc is by keeping water away from your home. While the house is under construction the ground surrounding the foundation should slope away from it. If water near this area is getting clogged time and again it is advisable to apply soil to change the inclination.
2. Roof maintenance should also be kept in mind. Sometimes clogging of water in the roof causes seeping of water into the walls and ceiling. Downspouts and clogged gutters can also prove to be harmful to your house. Always ensure that the roof is properly drained of water through the downspouts. These should open into a drain which should be constructed at least five to ten feet away from the base. The jammed gutters and lost shingles can cause extensive damages too.
3. Always check of for any signs of rotting, insect damage, patches, holes and cracks present in your home. A thorough inspection of your home twice a year can prevent you from some of the expensive repairs.
4. Try to ensure that the surrounding trees and branches are at least a few feet away from your home. A storm tossed branch can haul damage to the sidings of your doors and windows. Wood siding is more susceptible to rot than an aluminum or vinyl one. So pealed paints and pockmarked areas should always be under scrutiny. And while fitting in a siding, set a waterproof polythene paper to prevent long term leaks.
5. If your sewage pipe underground leaks causing marsh like puddle in your lawn, you should call for the municipal authorities or a professional plumbing service rather than doing it on your own. Digging on your own can cause even greater damage by hitting and cracking it.

Sewage treatment and garbage disposal are important factors that can affect not just your house but also your health. Always check for signs like foul smells, clogged water and dark patches in your walls and lawns, and take immediate preventive measures. This can ward off huge maintenance costs and provide your house with a fresh and clean environment.