We all get busy, and keeping up with everything on your plate can be a challenge. However, one area where it’s crucial to be diligent is with home maintenance.
It’s easy to forget or ignore everything from seasonal tasks to seemingly non-threatening emergencies, but putting these things off can often lead to bigger problems. Worse yet, these issues are not simply frustrating but also expensive and time-consuming to fix. Here are six home maintenance tasks you should never ignore.
Managing Leaks
From mold to structural damage, water leaks can cause a variety of problems that are difficult to remediate. So, if you spot a leak in your house—no matter how small—make sure to contact a pro as soon as possible. “You want to call a plumber right away to find out what is causing the leak and repair it," Brooke Soliz Bremmer, an attorney who specializes in habitability with Sweet James says. "If you are a renter, your landlord is responsible for paying for the cost of fixing the leak if it involves a structural issue.”
Lastly, if your previously flat wall suddenly looks curved, it’s probably a leak, so be sure to call in for assistance right away.
Dealing With Infestations
Whether it’s something as small and seemingly non-threatening as termites or something larger (and potentially scary) like mice or rats, these problems need to be addressed the moment you notice something isn’t right. As with leaks, infestations can cause major issues for your home as well as your health. “While termites can cause structural damage to the home, rodents can get into the wires of your car and chew them," Bremmer says. "If you are a renter, you must report infestations to your landlord immediately because they are liable for fixing them and paying for it."
Checking For Mold
You might not think much about mold, especially if you don’t live in a particularly humid area, but mold can be incredibly hazardous and must be taken seriously. Even if you don’t see mold, it could be lurking.
Michael Rubino, mold and air quality expert, advises checking your toilet tank for mold at least monthly because it can signal a more significant mold issue elsewhere in your home. “While the tank lid isn’t airtight, there’s minimal air exchange between the inside and outside," Rubino says. "A stray mold spore could find its way in, but if you spot mold growth inside the tank, it’s more likely that high levels of spores are circulating in your home’s air due to an existing mold problem.”
Changing HVAC Filters
If you don’t remember the last time you changed your HVAC filters, you’re definitely due to swap them out. “Your HVAC system acts as the lungs of your home and, as such, is a crucial part of maintaining indoor air quality," Rubino says. "Clogged filters can’t do their job effectively. When they’re overly dirty, they reduce air quality, strain the HVAC system, and can even lead to costly repairs." So, he recommends checking your manufacturer’s guidelines for replacement timing, but also inspecting filters regularly. "Signs they need changing sooner include discoloration, odors, rising energy bills, weak airflow, or dust buildup around vents," he adds.
In addition to changing out your HVAC filters, Rubino recommends scheduling a professional HVAC service in the fall before cooler weather sets in. “Think of it as a biannual tune-up for your home’s air system," he says. "A well-maintained HVAC not only helps prevent mold growth but also supports a healthier home environment year-round.”
Cleaning Your Gutters
You may not ever may much attention to your gutters, but it’s important you don’t forget this essential home maintenance task. “Clogged gutters can cause significant water damage to both the interior and exterior of your home, especially in areas that experience frequent severe weather,” says Michael DiMartino, senior vice president of project services at Power Home Remodeling.
When gutters become clogged with debris, such as leaves and twigs, they block water from draining properly, which can lead to the formation of ice dams. “It’s not just about preventing ice dams, though—it’s also crucial to clear your gutters to stop icicles from forming," DiMartino explains. "When water can’t drain, it accumulates and freezes, adding unnecessary weight to the gutters. If the icicles grow too heavy, they can damage the gutters, soffit, and fascia boards.”
Sealing Air Gaps
DiMartino tells me that windows, doors, vents, and other openings in a building’s exterior play a vital role by allowing air and light to flow in and out of our homes. “However, these same openings can sometimes let unwanted air in or out, leading to energy loss and higher utility bills," he says. "It’s essential for homeowners to equip their homes with high-quality materials and proper sealants, and to regularly inspect for gaps or cracks in the foundation where air may leak.”
If you are unsure about air leaks, he suggests scheduling a building pressurization test with a pro. “If the windows, doors, chimneys, skylights, and other openings are all closed but air still seeps through, you can target those areas for repairs," DiMartino says.
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