Most people know how important preventative home maintenance is. If you don't keep up with all areas of your house, undetected problems can build up, and will cost quite a lot to repair in the long run. Many people have to take out loans just to cover the cost of the damages. Failing to keep up with preventive home maintenance can also make your home unsafe. Following a proper home maintenance plan will help you avoid most of these issues, and there are many things to keep in mind. Here are a few issues you probably forgot about this year.
Roof
You probably don't think of your roof when planning a home maintenance strategy. This is an important aspect most of us overlook or ignore. But, by the time your roof starts leaking, it's likely thousands of dollars in damage have already been done. Your roof should be inspected at least once a year, and you should only do it yourself if you have experience. Roof inspections can be dangerous and in most cases, it is better to hire a professional. Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are another part of home maintenance that are often forgotten. In the event of a house fire, having a properly functioning fire extinguisher could mean the difference between life and death. A fire extinguisher can also help minimize the amount of damage done by a fire which could save you a lot of money in repair costs since insurance does not always cover everything. Most people buy a fire extinguisher and leave it to sit for years. Over time, the air pressure becomes reduced. It's vital to check your fire extinguisher at least once a month to ensure adequate pressure.
Garage Door
In the past, garage doors were dangerous. People were often caught in the door as it was closing. This problem resulted in people getting injured and killed. A law was passed that requires all garage doors to have an auto reverse feature. This feature will detect if anything is in the doors way as it is closing. If anything is detected, the door will automatically open. It is important to test your garage door at least every three months to make sure the auto reverse feature is still working properly. To test it, place a small block of wood under the garage door and try to close it. If the door does not try to open on it's on, the auto reverse feature is not working and needs to be repaired.Furnace Repair
Check your furnace and air conditioning units at least once or twice a year. Be sure you are getting air flowing through all parts of the house and that the temperatures stay constant and correct. A professional furnace repair company like Cape Fear Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Inc. recommends changing your filters every few months. This way you can avoid disaster and freezing temperatures. Preventative home care is important for keeping your systems in top shape. Use these often forgotten tips to make sure your home runs smoothly this winter.