8 Things You Should Do Regularly to Protect Your Home

Your home is one of, if not the, biggest investment you will ever make, so it is really important that you do all you can to look after it and keep it in the best possible condition. Doing so will not only protect your investment, but it will make it a much more pleasant experience for you and your family to live in the place, right?

Well, you might be thinking that it’s a tall order to protect your home from everything from flooding to gas leaks, and you’re right, it kind of is, but if you are organized and you know what to focus on, it does not have to be an impossible or overwhelming task.

So, although you can never be totally sure that nothing bad will happen to your home, if you do these 8 things regularly, you will certainly be minimizing the chances of any issues arising, and doing everything you can to protect your home.

1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

You might not think that not clearing your gutters and downspouts is no big deal, and if you‘re lucky, sure it will not cause you any issues, but you know what? Your gutters and downspouts do a whole lot more than you might think to protect your home from damp and flooding, not to mention foundation issues, buy funneling water away form youe ho and allowing it to drainn safely, so it is actually really important that you clear them regularly, or that you get a gutter company to come in and clear them for you, an maybe even install a leaf guard while they’re at it. 

Ideally, you should do this at least twice a year (more if you can) to avoid:

• Foundation cracks

• Basement leaks

• Rotted fascia boards

• Roof damage

• Mold growth

• Ice dams in winter

Take it seriously, and keep your home safe!

2. Inspect Your Roof for Wear and Damage

Your roof is your home’s frontline defense against rain, snow, and wind. Even minor issues can lead to major (and expensive) problems if they’re not caught early.

Every season, especially after storms, check for:

• Missing or curling shingles

• Soft spots

• Loose or damaged flashing

• Debris buildup

• Moss or algae growth

If climbing up on the roof is not particularly safe, then you can use binoculars to help you get a closer look, or even better, if you can afford it, you can hire a professional roofing company to come out and assess the state of your roof. Early detection prevents leaks, water damage, and structural issues, so don’t sleep on it.

3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Safety devices only work if they’re functioning. Too many families assume their smoke detectors are fine, until they aren’t that is.  So, to protect your home and everyone in it:

• Test smoke alarms monthly

• Replace batteries every six months

• Install CO detectors near bedrooms and on every floor

• Replace detectors every 7–10 years

These devices are inexpensive and absolutely essential. A working detector can save your home, and much more importantly, your life, so be sure to install them because you have so much to lose if you do not.

4. Check for Plumbing Leaks and Drips

Small drips can turn into big problems, and it is fair to say that regular plumbing checks help catch issues before they cause a whole host of problems, including:

• Mold

• Rot

• Foundation damage

• Soaring water bills

• Flooding

So, take the time to inspect:

• Under sinks

• Around toilets

• Around water heaters

• Behind washing machines

• Around dishwashers

• In basements and crawlspaces

If you notice moisture, staining, reduced water pressure, or a musty smell, address it immediately. Early repairs are cheaper and far less stressful than emergency flood cleanup at the end of the day.

5. Change HVAC Filters and Maintain the System

Your heating and cooling system is obviously really important because it keeps your indoor environment safe and comfortable year-round, but it can only do this if you take the time to maintain it properly.

This means that you are going to want to replace air filters every 1–3 months. Clogged filters cause:

• Higher energy bills

• Poor indoor air quality

• HVAC strain and breakdowns

• Uneven heating and cooling

So, schedule professional maintenance at least once a year to keep the system efficient, safe, and long-lasting. A well-maintained HVAC unit reduces risk of fires, gas leaks, and costly repairs.

6. Seal Gaps and Check Weatherstripping

Air leaks around windows, doors, and attics make your home less energy-efficient and more vulnerable to the elements. They can also invite pests inside.

Every few months:

• Check for gaps

• Test weatherstripping

• Inspect caulking around windows and doors

• Seal cracks in exterior walls

• Attach door sweeps if drafts are noticeable

A well-sealed home stays warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and far better protected against moisture and pests.

7. Flush Out Your Water Heater

Sediment can build up in water heaters over time, so it is really important that you flush them regularly, because if you do not, it can cause the following:

• Reduced efficiency

• Higher energy bills

• Rust-colored water

• Loud rumbling sounds

• Premature system failure

Flushing your water heater once a year helps keep it running efficiently and reduces risk of leaks or ruptures. For tankless systems, schedule regular descaling to prevent mineral buildup.

8. Trim Trees and Maintain Landscaping

Overgrown trees and shrubs can damage your property if they’re not kept in check. Falling branches, interfering roots, and debris buildup all pose threats.

Regularly:

• Trim branches away from your roof and siding

• Remove dead or diseased limbs

• Clear leaves and debris near the foundation

• Keep shrubs away from windows and vents

• Remove plants growing in gutters or drainage areas

Healthy landscaping enhances your home’s curb appeal while reducing storm damage, pest activity, and drainage issues, so it is well worth the time it takes to get it done.

If you do these eight things regularly, then your home will be in much better shape and your peace of mind will be so much greater too!

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