Congratulations on purchasing your dream home in Albuquerque, NM or any other city of your choice! Becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with added responsibilities. If you’ve been renting an apartment in a city like Scottsdale, AZ or renting a home in the outskirts of Kansas City, you may have relied on your landlord for maintenance issues. Now that you’re a homeowner, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with minor home repairs to prepare for any future leaks or breaks.
To help you get started, Redfin has gathered insights from experts in various fields, including water infrastructure services and painting companies, to share essential home repair and maintenance tips for first-time homeowners. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Ensuring your tap water is safe to drink
Before consuming tap water, especially if it’s the norm where you live, it’s crucial to assess its quality. Sidney D.K. Sogbor, CEO of Seadmok Water, recommends checking for contaminants and considering a home water testing kit for added peace of mind. It’s essential to maintain your home’s plumbing to ensure the safety of your water supply.
To fix a leaky faucet, turning off the water supply and identifying the faucet type are key steps. Depending on the faucet type, replacing worn-out components like washers or O-rings can resolve the issue. It’s a simple DIY job that any first-time homeowner can tackle with the right guidance.
3. Unclogging a drain
Dealing with a clogged drain is a common household problem that can often be resolved without professional help. Starting with boiling water, using a plunger, or trying a drain snake are effective methods to clear minor clogs. For persistent blockages, inspecting the P-trap and seeking professional assistance may be necessary.
4. Learn to be efficient with your water use
Implementing water-saving practices like fixing leaks, upgrading to water-efficient fixtures, and optimizing outdoor watering schedules can help conserve water and reduce utility costs. Simple habits like running full loads in appliances and minimizing water waste during daily activities contribute to efficient water use.
Regularly inspecting gas lines for signs of corrosion, rust, and decay is essential for safety. Proper maintenance, including sealing walls to prevent moisture and painting pipes for protection, can prolong the lifespan of gas lines and prevent potential hazards.
6. Get your windows operating smoothly again
Improving the functionality of windows by cleaning dirt buildup and applying lubricant to tracks and frames can enhance their operation. Simple maintenance tasks like cleaning and lubricating can restore smooth window movement and enhance overall comfort.
7. Clean your windows
Maintaining clean windows using a water and vinegar solution with a microfiber cloth or newspaper can help achieve streak-free results. Cleaning windows on a cool, cloudy day can prevent the solution from drying too quickly, ensuring a spotless finish.
8. Inspect and clean your siding
Regular inspection and cleaning of siding prevent water damage and pest issues caused by dirt buildup, dry rot, or missing paint. Maintaining the exterior of your home through simple cleaning and repairs can protect its structural integrity and enhance curb appeal.
9. Keep your roof clean
Maintaining a clean roof surface and gutter system, inspecting for damage, ensuring proper ventilation, and promptly addressing shingle or tile issues can prolong the life of your roof. Regular maintenance practices help protect your roof from water damage and preserve its integrity.
10. Fix a toilet that isn’t flushing well
While most plumbing tasks should be handled by professionals, replacing a faulty toilet valve can be a cost-effective DIY solution for a poorly flushing toilet. Basic maintenance tasks like valve replacement can prevent the need for expensive repairs.
11. Inspect your HVAC regularly
Proactive HVAC maintenance, including regular air filter replacement, smart thermostat installation, and biannual tune-ups, can optimize system efficiency and prevent costly repairs. Prioritizing HVAC inspections and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.
12. Do your own painting if you’re okay with imperfection
For DIY painting projects, starting with less visible areas like guest bedrooms allows for practice and experimentation. Choosing light colors and applying multiple coats can help achieve a satisfactory finish. Consider DIY painting for areas where imperfections are less noticeable.
13. Replace fireplace doors
Enhancing the appearance of your fireplace with new doors can add character to your living space. Investing in fireplace door replacement can be a simple and affordable way to upgrade your home’s aesthetic appeal. Installation is straightforward with basic tools.
14. Conduct a deep clean
Performing a thorough deep clean of your new home can eliminate dirt and grime left by previous occupants, making your living space feel fresh and personalized. Focus on cleaning overlooked areas like kitchen cabinets and window sills to enhance cleanliness and comfort.
Conclusion: Minor home repairs for less-experienced homeowners
Home maintenance requires commitment and effort, but seeking professional help for complex tasks is perfectly acceptable. When hiring experts, ensure they have positive references and a reputable track record. By following the advice of experienced professionals, you can navigate minor home repairs with confidence.