Five Overlooked Home Improvements
- Inspect Your Roof
Inspect your roof at least once per year to look for cracked caulk, missing or broken shingles, cracked rubber boots around the vent pipes and any moss. Be alert to early signs of roof leaks such as damp spots along fireplaces or peeling paint under roof overhangs. Also, keep track of how old your roof is. If your asphalt rood is 15 years old or more it could require a replacement.
Find a professional roof inspector in your area by using HAAG Certified Inspector.
- Gutter Protection
Gutter protection is often one of the most overlooked home improvements, but is one of the most cost-effective and long-lasting improvements homeowners can invest in. Gutters typically fail from clogs, leaks, misalignments or faulty design. Clogs cost a homeowner money and time by either paying for gutter cleaning or having to take the time to clean them themselves. Any standing water in your gutters can create a leak which then causes ice damming.
LeafFilter™ offers a gutter protection system that will eliminate the need for homeowners to deal with roof, structural or foundation issues that arise because of clogged gutters. Their micro-mesh system is 50 microns fine and creates a completely sealed gutter system that only water can enter into.
- Toilet and Faucet Leaks
Water leaking from your toilet tank can cause water damage to your bathroom floor. To test for a leak in your toilet tank, add red food coloring to the water in the tank. Let it sit for one minute and if the water in the bowl is pink, you have a leak.
Faucets are another fixture to pay attention to and maintain. Typically, leaky faucets are caused from worn out washers. They can easily be replaced by turning off the main water supply, removing the old washer and putting a new one in place.
The best part about toilet and faucet leaks is that you can likely fix the problems yourself rather than hiring someone.
- Have Proper Insulation Installed
Insulating your home saves money and improves comfort inside your home. The more heat flow resistance from your insulation, the lower your heating and cooling costs. Before insulating, seal any air leaks first.
The type of insulation you choose should depend on your climate, whether or not you are adding insulation to an existing home or building new and whether you are hiring a professional or doing the job yourself. Proper insulation should be done in your attic, ducts, cathedral ceilings, floors above heated garages, foundation, basement and crawlspaces.
The Insulation Contractors Association of America is a great tool to find local insulation contractors.
- Check Your Fireplace and Chimney
Chimneys and vents can cause costly and even deadly problems if not maintained on a regular basis. At all times, chimneys and vents should be in good condition. Examine the chimney from outside to make sure a chimney cap is present which will keep animals, rain and snow out. From inside your home, inspect the flue damper to make sure it opens, closes and seals properly.
Keeping a maintained chimney and vents will prevent fires and carbon monoxide from creeping into your home. The Chimney Safety Institute helps you search for a certified chimney sweep in your area.
Then call “Special” Ed Haraway at EXIT First Realty 240-375-2871, if you have any questions about selling your home.
