A house is an expensive investment that requires care and attention to extend its lifespan. Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and home repairs are inevitable.
Fortunately, many building components and appliances should last for years. However, some areas of a home will require more frequent repair. Knowing what items are expected to last and when they may need attention is helpful in planning ahead for these costly repairs.
1. Roof Repair
A home’s roof is its first and foremost line of defense against the elements. But a damaged or poorly maintained roof can quickly take its toll on everything in the house.
If you regularly inspect your roof, a few small repairs can help prolong its life. Especially check for flashing around chimneys or roof vents, as these are more prone to damage. It’s also wise to regularly inspect roof penetrations, such as skylights.
Small holes can become major leaks that cause rot or other problems for years before you notice them. A proper roof should also prevent mildew and mold from growing, which can pose health hazards for the family.
2. Gutters
Gutters are designed to safely disperse water runoff and snow melt away from your home, preventing water intrusion that can lead to basement or foundation problems. Without gutters, you can experience costly water damage restoration and even mold growth.
If you notice that your gutters are leaking or not functioning properly, it’s important to hire a professional for routine maintenance and repair. This will prevent clogging and keep the system running smoothly for years to come.
It’s best to inspect your gutters and downspouts twice a year, removing debris from both sides of the gutter system.
3. Windows
The windows in your home play a big role in your comfort and energy performance. They are expected to last 20 years or more, but if you’re seeing broken seals, a sudden increase in your heating and cooling costs, or a change in their overall appearance it could be time to replace them.
New windows keep drafts and water out, block sunlight and UV rays that can damage furniture, carpeting and floors, and are designed to be more energy
efficient. That can help drop your utility bills and reduce wear on your HVAC system.
4. Doors
Door replacement is an often-overlooked home improvement project that can have a big impact on a room’s aesthetic and function. Depending on the style chosen, new doors may also be more secure and help reduce utility bills by keeping out drafts and hot or cold air.
Like windows, doors are exposed to a wide range of weather conditions that can cause damage over time. Exposure to sunlight, rain, snow and other climatic conditions can accelerate the wear and tear of a door’s components. In addition, frequent opening and closing puts a strain on the springs, cables and opener that can lead to early failure.
5. Furnace
Furnaces use natural gas or fuel oil to generate heat and circulate it through ductwork. They typically have a burner, heat exchangers, blower and flue to serve as an exhaust for gaseous byproducts.
A furnace that’s sized incorrectly for the home will overwork and wear out quickly. A regular maintenance visit helps prevent this from happening, with the technician checking and adjusting electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and assessing the blower’s performance and air flow.
Furnaces that are regularly serviced have a longer lifespan. The technician can catch any developing problems during the tune-up, and they can fix them before they turn into bigger issues that could require a replacement or more extensive repairs.
6. Water Heater
The life expectancy of a home depends on the materials it is made with, its location and how well it is maintained. Homes built with superior building products tend to have a greater life expectancy than those constructed with poor-quality materials.
Routine maintenance and the cleaning of furnace or air-conditioner filters may also prolong the life of these appliances. Appliances that provide a continuous supply of hot water are often called water heaters, but they can also be known as water tanks, boilers, geysers or calorifiers. All have the same function but they are designed for different applications and are powered by various energy sources.
7. Electrical
Electrical upgrades are an important part of any home renovation. They improve safety, reduce energy bills, and increase resale value. But you must hire a skilled electrician to handle them. Electricity is dangerous, and you could cause serious damage to your house if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Flickering or dimming lights, insufficient outlets, and breakers that frequently trip are signs of an outdated electrical system. Upgrading the wiring in your house will
give it adequate power to support modern technology like refrigerators ,microwaves, and electronic gadgets. Something like your circuit breaker keeps tripping or having problems should be looked into and repaired.
