5 Quick & Affordable Property Maintenance Tips

You know it's important to keep up with those annual home maintenance tasks like changing air filters and cleaning out the chimney, but did you know how crucial it is to tackle even the smallest issues early? A few little things can add up to big trouble down the road. Even something as simple as clogged gutters can turn into water damage which can attract pests like termites to your home. Needless to say, it's important to take care of issues as soon as they arise. Below are some of the easiest tips to keep your property in tip-top shape so you can avoid expensive repair bills.

Repair Broken Downspouts

Downspouts are important because they help divert rainwater from your roof and gutters. They also protect against flooding and erosion. However, it’s easy for them to become disconnected from your house, which could cause problems. Here are some signs that something might be wrong:

• Water pooling near the base of the downspout

• Downspouts that don’t drain properly

• A cracked or damaged downspout

• Sagging or tilted downspout

If you notice any of these things, take a look around the perimeter to see whether there are any loose downspouts. You can repair them yourself or call a pro to do the work. Loose or disconnected downspouts are a small fix but left unchecked, they can lead to water damage and even foundation problems.

Keep Drains Clean

If you've ever had a sink or toilet backed up, it probably wasn't because your pipes are too old. In fact, most plumbing issues stem from something else entirely — buildup in the pipes. To help prevent future problems, make sure you take care of any blockages now. If it's a localized backup, you can snake your drain. If it's a slowdown happening in your main pipes, you may need a plumber. While it might be a hassle, this can save you headaches in the future.

Clean Your Gutters

Gutters are essential parts of your roofing system, keeping rainwater off your house and preventing it from collecting under the shingles. But overgrown gutters can cause serious problems. They can leak, causing water damage inside your home. And clogged gutters can overflow during heavy rains, flooding your basement and potentially damaging expensive belongings. If your gutters haven't been cleaned for a while, you may want to call in a professional before the rainy season comes.

Keep Your Paint Touched Up

The paint on your home makes a big impact on how your house looks. But the paint is also a protective barrier for your home, helping to keep moisture out. When you notice your home has spots that aren't looking good, perform a simple touch-up on the paint. While repainting your whole home can cost thousands, touching up the paint is cheap and easy to do without breaking the bank.

Change Air Filters

Changing your air filter can prolong your AC unit’s lifespan, make it run more efficiently, and improve air quality in your home — all while saving you money. But most people don't know how often they should replace their filters. And even those who do are likely to forget to follow up on the recommendation. For most filters, you want to change them out quarterly. They're inexpensive, you can get them at your local hardware store, and they can make a big impact on your air quality.