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In The News
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Preventative Home Maintenance for Charlotte Homes
Automobile owners understand the importance of having their vehicle maintained so it runs properly and lasts a long time. Like regularly changing the oil in your car, preventative maintenance to your home will help the building materials last longer and enable you to avoid extensive repair projects. And, just like properly maintaining your auto is necessary to the safety of your passengers, taking care of your house can help keep your house safe and help your family and friends avoid injuries.
Below is a check-list of preventative maintenance projects that are often overlooked. We recommend that all our owners of newly-constructed Charlotte homes consider undertaking a few of these projects each year, to keep your property in tip-top condition for many decades to come.
Well Water
- Take a water sample to a laboratory to test for purity.
Attic, Basement and Garage
- Clean and discard paper and junk.
- Remove the grates from drain pipes in the basement and garage floors and in the driveway, then scoop out muck and flush with a garden hose.
Central Air Conditioner
- Clean or replace the air filter(s) at least every two months.
- Prune and trim away any shrubbery that is restricting the circulation of air.
Vents in Foundation, Soffits and Eaves
- Make sure screens are intact to keep out squirrels and other rodents, birds and insects.
- Carefully knock-off wasp and bee nests from eaves.
Wood Decks
- Nail any raised boards, hammer in any popped nails.
- Refinish with stain or paint if raw wood is exposed.
- Look for signs of decay and termites in wood near or in contact with the earth.
Sewer Lines
- Inspect the grass above the sewer lines of your Charlotte homes. If it is greener than adjacent grass, it may indicate a leak in the line.
Gutters & Downspouts
- Scoop out leaves, seed pods and other debris.
- Flush the gutters and downspouts with a garden hose.
- Look for pools of water that reveal sags in the gutters.
- Straighten bent gutter hangers.
Driveway
- Patch holes and seal cracks.
- Resurface if the concrete is flaking from salt or chemical ice removers.
Sump Pump
- Test the motor and pump by filling the sump with water. If the motor doesn’t start or the pump doesn’t pump, call a repairman.
Septic System
- Have it inspected and cleaned if necessary.
Gutters and Downspouts
- Scoop out leaves, seed pods and other debris.
- Flush the gutters and downspouts with a garden hose.
- Look for pools of water that reveal sags in the gutters.
- Straighten bent gutter hangers.
Driveway
- Patch holes and seal cracks.
- Resurface if the concrete is flaking from salt or chemical ice removers.
Fences
- Hammer in popped nails.
- Tighten loose posts.
- Paint or stain if raw wood is exposed.
Screens and Screen Doors
- Inspect, repair and clean the screens and screen doors. It may be necessary to paint them before re-installing them.
Fireplace
- Clean and empty the ash pit if the fireplace has one.
- Clean chimney.
Hot Water Heater
- Drain the sediment from the bottom of the tank.
- Consider having your tank insulated to reduce heat loss.
Siding
- Look for blistered or peeling paint. Unlike many harsher environments, Charlotte homes will not need painted as often as homes in more northerly climates, but they will need attention now and then. Decide if it is time to paint your house.
- Check for popped nails and loose or cracked clapboards. Caulk when necessary.
Sliding Doors
- Clean the tracks.
- Check the locks and tighten the hardware.
Exhaust Fans
- Clean the blades.
- Oil the motor.
Ornamental Iron Railings
- Use sandpaper on rusted areas and treat with rust-inhibiting paint.
Electrical Circuits
- Identify the fuse or circuit breaker that controls each circuit; make a diagram and affix it near the box.
Power Lawn Mower
- Wash or replace the air filter.
- Fill the crankcase with new oil.
- Install a new cutting blade when necessary and sharpen the blade each month.
By staying on top of home maintenance for your Charlotte homes, you can add years to your home’s appearance and functionality. You’ll also enjoy your house more and save money on energy bills and home repairs.
Learn more about our Charlotte new homes
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