2020 was unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. We all spent a LOT of time at home, and 2021 is starting off with more of the same. If you’re like us, your new year’s resolutions are usually thrown out the window by January 4, but this year we have some tips that don’t involve cutting out the wine or the chips!
These 12 Home Maintenance Resolutions will help you take care of the place that is currently your office, school, gym, remote doctor’s office, quarantine central, takeout headquarters, and more – HOME. Try to knock out one task per month and we promise your home will be in the best shape of its life!
January – Shop for better homeowners’ insurance rates and discuss adding coverages for things like mechanicals, flooding, public water/sewer laterals, and whatever else your insurance agent might recommend. Did you know your basic homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover your furnace dying in the dead of winter or your basement flooding from all the melted snow? Now is the time to make sure you have the best coverages and the best rates for 2021!
February – Replace HVAC and water filters because, let’s be honest, none of us remember to do it as often as we should. Hey, while you’re at it, go ahead and put those on Subscribe & Save auto ordering for the whole year!
March – Clean off your roof, clean out the gutters, ensure there are no clogs in your downspouts and reattach those extenders! Ideally, water should flow at least 3 feet away from your foundation.
April – Clean/repair outdoor living spaces to get ready for warm weather. Power wash patios, stain decks, schedule a reseal of your driveway, etc.
May – Repair any water leaks that you may have discovered after all those April showers. Speaking of water, now is a great time to touch up caulking inside and outside your home.
June – Paint touch-up time! Open the windows to help air out the fumes. If you have wood trim on the exterior of your home, be sure to scrape before painting.
July – Clean out the dryer vent and exhaust duct. Run a wash cycle in your wash machine. YES! It’s a thing! We love Affresh tablets.
August – Test and replace the batteries in your smoke and CO detectors. Make sure you have smoke detectors high on the wall, since smoke rises, and CO detectors low by the floor.
September – Clean out your fireplace and chimney to prepare for those cozy fall and winter fires. If you haven’t ever had it done, we also highly recommend a professional inspection.
October – Have all HVAC and gas appliances serviced.
November – Weatherize all exterior plumbing. Frozen pipes can cause lots of damage!
December – Ensure your electric panel box is in good safe condition before going crazy with lights and inflatables!
Cheers to the new year and staying on top of those home maintenance projects!