Considering the economic decline amidst the current world health crisis, it’s wise to safeguard the maintenance of household and real estate properties in the coming years. The day-to-day responsibilities have become so tedious that home maintenance tends to be neglected and set aside. Nevertheless, forgotten isn’t synonymous with irrelevant. To help keep the avoidable expenses at bay, here are a few simple tips on how to be thrifty during this storm.
1. Inspect Your Home
There is the old adage: “A man’s home is his castle.” As the ruler of your castle, it is your responsibility to make sure that it does not fall into disrepair. To observe your surroundings is not merely having an analysis of it. It is keeping an open and receptive mind to it. You must do more than a quick sweep of your home, you must be able to observe the possible problems within it.
Here are some key areas you should not miss:
a. Check for floors that soft or discolored near exterior doors and in bathrooms around toilets and tubs
b. Cracks in walls, especially coming from windows and door corners
c. Peeling paint from inside or outside the house
d. Check for erosion in the foundation, particularly on the stoops or steps leading toward the house
e. Cracks in kitchen tiles
It’s essential that you use your senses when you observe your house. Noises, squeaks, musty odors. These are the things you have to look out for so you know when it’s time to call in the plumbers.
2. A Good Vacuum Goes a Long Way
Carpets are a haven for dust and therefore should be vacuumed at least twice a week. Good vacuuming will not only eliminate dust, it will also remove pesky irritants such as pet fur, dirt, and other contaminants that could bring about a lot of illnesses in your home.
When vacuuming, leave no stone (or furniture) unturned. Be sure to get under those crevices behind furniture and other objects. In order to minimize dirt levels from coming into your home, remove footwear before entering your house as shoes can track anything from dirt, mud, and feces, among other things.
3. Remember, Moisture Can Equal Mold and Other Undesirables
Moisture, when not kept under control can mean an infestation of mold, which can be toxic and will lead to numerous health complications. Moisture also attracts pests such as rats and insects. Be sure to make repairs to leaky sinks or pipes as soon as possible. Install exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms as it tends to be humid when cooking or taking a shower. Also, be sure to have your leaky roofs repaired as quickly as possible.
4. Dust is not your best friend
In every home, dust is your enemy as it has the potential to be a health hazard. It can trigger allergies and asthma attacks. When dusting, be sure to use a damp cloth so that the dust may adhere to the cloth. Wash dust cloths and throw rugs routinely.
5. Inspect the Interior of the House
Look for any signs of wear and tear outside of the house and make the necessary repairs. Check for dilapidated trimming around doors and windows. Be sure to repaint areas that need to be repainted.
6. Clean those Air Filters
A dirty or clogged air filter can result in a problem in air conditioning systems, or the worst-case scenario: a fire. Air filtration systems are often overlooked but are prone to becoming dirty or clogged. Cleaning your air filtration system can help keep air pollution at bay. It is recommended to do this at least once a month.
7. Install Smoke Alarms
To ensure safety and maintain the standard in your home, install a smoke alarm on every floor of your house. Have these alarms tested at least once every month to ensure that the batteries are in good condition.
A good way to maintain your family’s health is to start at home. What better way to keep all those nasty diseases and viruses at bay than by improving your home maintenance routine. In the long run, good vacuuming and a checklist of repairs will go a long way.
