hidden home maintenance tips professional contractors swear by
Hidden Home Maintenance Tips Professional Contractors Swear By
When it comes to maintaining a home, there’s more than meets the eye. Professional contractors have a treasure trove of secrets that aren’t widely known but can make a significant difference. Here's a look at some hidden home maintenance tips from industry insiders that can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle.
**Quieting Squeaky Floors**
Squeaky floors are more than just an annoyance. They can be a sign of underlying structural issues. Contractors often recommend talcum powder for a quick fix. Sprinkle it generously over the noisy sections, then sweep the excess. The powder works its way into the cracks, reducing friction and noise.
**Extending Water Heater Life**
Water heaters are often neglected until they fail. To extend their life, professionals suggest draining about a quarter of the tank a few times a year to remove sediment and improve efficiency. This simple task can save you from costly replacements.
**Gutter Maintenance Hacks**
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage. Cleaning them regularly is essential, but pros use a little-known trick: gutter guards. These prevent debris from accumulating, making maintenance a breeze. Installing them isn’t as daunting as it seems, and they pay off in the long run.
**HVAC System Upkeep**
Keeping your HVAC system in top shape is crucial for comfort and cost efficiency. Besides regular filter changes, contractors suggest inspecting your ductwork annually. Leaky ducts can cause the system to work harder, lowering its lifespan. A simple DIY sealant can fix minor leaks.
**Preventing Pipe Freezes**
Frozen pipes can cause massive damage, yet preventing them is often overlooked. Insulating your pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements and attics, is crucial. Use foam pipe insulation, which is inexpensive and easy to install.
**Deck Restoration**
Wooden decks require constant upkeep. To keep them looking new, professionals suggest applying a deck sealer once a year. For an even deeper clean, power washing before sealing removes dirt and mildew that can weaken the wood.
**Roof Inspection Techniques**
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Pros recommend semi-annual inspections to catch issues early. While up there, look for missing shingles, cracked flashing, and clogged gutters. Catching problems early can save you significant repair costs.
**Sealing Drafts**
Drafty windows and doors can hike up energy bills. Contractors use a combination of weatherstrips and caulk for the best results. Test for drafts by holding a candle near suspected areas on a windy day; if the flame flickers, a draft is present.
**Electrical Outlet Safety**
Old or poorly installed electrical outlets can be a fire hazard. Inspect them annually for signs of wear or blackening. Ensure that all outlets are properly grounded and consider upgrading to GFCI outlets in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
**Prolonged Carpet Life**
Carpets can harbor dust and allergens if not properly maintained. Contractors recommend deep cleaning carpets every 12-18 months using either steam or shampoo methods. High-traffic areas may need more frequent attention.
**Foundation Care**
Your home’s foundation is crucial for structural integrity. Inspect it for cracks and signs of settling. Many contractors recommend filling small cracks with epoxy but consulting a professional for larger issues. Regularly monitoring the foundation can prevent catastrophic failures.
These contractor-approved tips cover various aspects of home maintenance, from floors to foundations. Implementing even a few can extend the life of your home and save you from costly repairs. Whether you’re an avid DIYer or prefer calling in the pros, knowing these insider secrets can make all the difference.
When it comes to maintaining a home, there’s more than meets the eye. Professional contractors have a treasure trove of secrets that aren’t widely known but can make a significant difference. Here's a look at some hidden home maintenance tips from industry insiders that can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle.
**Quieting Squeaky Floors**
Squeaky floors are more than just an annoyance. They can be a sign of underlying structural issues. Contractors often recommend talcum powder for a quick fix. Sprinkle it generously over the noisy sections, then sweep the excess. The powder works its way into the cracks, reducing friction and noise.
**Extending Water Heater Life**
Water heaters are often neglected until they fail. To extend their life, professionals suggest draining about a quarter of the tank a few times a year to remove sediment and improve efficiency. This simple task can save you from costly replacements.
**Gutter Maintenance Hacks**
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage. Cleaning them regularly is essential, but pros use a little-known trick: gutter guards. These prevent debris from accumulating, making maintenance a breeze. Installing them isn’t as daunting as it seems, and they pay off in the long run.
**HVAC System Upkeep**
Keeping your HVAC system in top shape is crucial for comfort and cost efficiency. Besides regular filter changes, contractors suggest inspecting your ductwork annually. Leaky ducts can cause the system to work harder, lowering its lifespan. A simple DIY sealant can fix minor leaks.
**Preventing Pipe Freezes**
Frozen pipes can cause massive damage, yet preventing them is often overlooked. Insulating your pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements and attics, is crucial. Use foam pipe insulation, which is inexpensive and easy to install.
**Deck Restoration**
Wooden decks require constant upkeep. To keep them looking new, professionals suggest applying a deck sealer once a year. For an even deeper clean, power washing before sealing removes dirt and mildew that can weaken the wood.
**Roof Inspection Techniques**
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Pros recommend semi-annual inspections to catch issues early. While up there, look for missing shingles, cracked flashing, and clogged gutters. Catching problems early can save you significant repair costs.
**Sealing Drafts**
Drafty windows and doors can hike up energy bills. Contractors use a combination of weatherstrips and caulk for the best results. Test for drafts by holding a candle near suspected areas on a windy day; if the flame flickers, a draft is present.
**Electrical Outlet Safety**
Old or poorly installed electrical outlets can be a fire hazard. Inspect them annually for signs of wear or blackening. Ensure that all outlets are properly grounded and consider upgrading to GFCI outlets in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
**Prolonged Carpet Life**
Carpets can harbor dust and allergens if not properly maintained. Contractors recommend deep cleaning carpets every 12-18 months using either steam or shampoo methods. High-traffic areas may need more frequent attention.
**Foundation Care**
Your home’s foundation is crucial for structural integrity. Inspect it for cracks and signs of settling. Many contractors recommend filling small cracks with epoxy but consulting a professional for larger issues. Regularly monitoring the foundation can prevent catastrophic failures.
These contractor-approved tips cover various aspects of home maintenance, from floors to foundations. Implementing even a few can extend the life of your home and save you from costly repairs. Whether you’re an avid DIYer or prefer calling in the pros, knowing these insider secrets can make all the difference.