Home Maintenance Tasks for First-Time Home Buyers

Buying your first home is exciting. You’re eating dinner in your dining room and sitting in a chair in your backyard. But along with the pride of ownership, there are also plenty of new responsibilities to tackle, particularly when it comes to maintenance. While first-time homeowners probably already know they’ll have to mow the lawn and replace lightbulbs when they burn out, some less obvious chores often slip under the radar. Here are a few hidden or unexpected home maintenance tasks every home buyer should know about to keep their property in tip-top condition.

1. Clean your gutters

Gutters might not be the first thing on your mind but neglect them at your peril. Over time, leaves, twigs and debris accumulate in gutters, blocking water flow. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep into your roof or foundation, resulting in costly repairs. And when the blocked water freezes in our icy Midwestern winters, it can produce dangerous icicles or expand, causing the gutters to crack or pull away from the home. Regular gutter cleaning protect your home and lawn from water damage, prevents birds and other creatures from building nests and extends the life of your gutters. Clean them at least twice a year—once in the spring and again in the fall – or more often if you have trees that drop a lot of needles and leaves.

Paying an expert is often the best way to go, but if you can and want to tackle gutter-cleaning yourself, make sure to thoroughly research a plan that keeps you safe.

2. Clean dryer vents

Clothes dryers cause 92% of home fires, and one-third of those dryer fires start because the machine or vent was not cleaned. In addition to posing a serious fire risk, a clogged vent reduces your dryer’s efficiency, leading to longer drying times and higher energy bills. Make sure to clean the dryer lint trap after every load, keep your dryer in good working order and schedule a thorough vent cleaning at least once a year. Those simple tasks can prevent potential hazards and keep your dryer running smoothly for years to come.

3. Maintain your driveway

Midwestern driveways endure a lot of stress—there are widely fluctuating temperatures, snow shovels and snowblowers, repeated freeze-thaw cycles and layers of road salt to contend with. Over time, small cracks form, allowing water to seep in, which causes even more damage. Make sure to regularly inspect your driveway for cracks or holes and take care of them promptly with sealant or patching material. Every few years,  apply a seal coat to protect against water damage and extend the life of your driveway. A well-maintained driveway not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also saves you money on more significant repairs down the road.

4. Flush your water heater

Water heaters are another easily overlooked area of our homes, tucked away in a basement or closet where we think about them rarely, if ever. But over time, sediment and mineral deposits build up inside the tank, which can reduce efficiency and even lead to the water heater’s failure. Flushing your water heater at least once a year helps remove that sediment buildup, prolonging the life of the system and ensuring it operates as efficiently as possible. You can do this yourself in a couple of hours or hire a professional to do the job for you, but either way, it’s a small task that can make a big difference in your home’s energy efficiency and hot water availability.

5. Inspect your roof

While a roof may seem indestructible, it requires regular inspections to discover small issues before they turn into big problems. Inspections should check for missing or damaged shingles, signs of mold or mildew, and any debris that might have accumulated. Catching these things early can save you from costly repairs or even a complete roof replacement. It’s a good idea to inspect your roof annually and after severe weather events like big storms, serious hail or heavy winds.

6. Reseal windows and doors

You might already know how much cold air can get into a poorly sealed home in the winter and the same goes for hot air in the summer. Over time, the seals around windows and doors deteriorate, allowing drafts and moisture in. This not only increases your energy bills but can also lead to mold growth and damage to your home’s interior. Inspect the caulking and weather-stripping around your windows and doors annually, replacing or repairing any worn-out areas. A well-sealed house will be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, will lower your energy costs and will be better protected against weather-related damage.

7. Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind

These maintenance tasks aren’t glamorous, but they are crucial for preserving your home’s condition and avoiding expensive repairs. By staying on top of these sometimes-hidden chores, you’ll not only protect your investment but also have peace of mind knowing your home is in great shape. Incorporate these tasks into your regular maintenance routine and ensure your home stays a safe, comfortable and efficient haven for decades to come.