Comox Valley Home Repairs

PREVENT COSTLY HOME REPAIRS

watch out for ordinary wear & tear

As a homeowner, you have to expect natural deterioration of the structure over time and you must plan accordingly and plan a budget for your expected cost of upkeep, based on the age and condition of your home. When you are a buyer considering a purchase, a Building Inspector can provide detailed information about the age of the home's vital systems and the overall quality of construction. 

The hardiness and quality of the materials used to build the home generally determines how long each component's life span is, but also the quality of installation, intensity of use, local climate conditions and the level of maintenance will all impact the longevity. Lower priced materials, DIY jobs and lack of ongoing upkeep are all "red flags" when we are house shopping.

This is why it is important, as a homeowner, to ensure you keep up with your home's maintenance needs. Here are some preventative maintenance tips:

ROOF

Fall and spring are great times to conduct routine maintenance on the roof, including replacing missing/damaged shingles/tiles and checking for signs of blistering or damage that eventually leads to leaks. Clear debris from the roof and gutters, especially in the valleys where it can accumulate and cause water to puddle. We live on the wet coast - respect the integrity of your roof!

SIDING

Clean your home's exterior with a garden hose sprayer and  mild detergent, or with a power washer, after winter pas passed. Tighten loose trim and add caulk to areas with cracks to keep the elements from intruding. Check that you don't have any plant life making it's way in the cracks.

DECKS

Wash and treat wood with paint or weatherproofing product to prevent cracking. Plus it'll look it's best for spring and summer outdoor enjoyment.

IRRIGATION

Check sprinkler systems thoroughly before summer approaches to spot and fix leaks - and make sure that your sprinklers are not spraying agains the home's foundation or siding. 

BASEMENT

Watch for signs of moisture intrusion and find the source of leaks that can lead to serious mold or fungus problems if left unaddressed. Check those perimeter drains!

KITCHEN/BATHS

Replace damaged caulking around tubs, showers sinks and toilet to avoid water-related damage to the walls, floors and cabinets. Clean the ceiling fan. 

DRYER

Remove accumulated lint from exhaust duct at the back of the dryer and use a long handled brush to clear the vent that leads outside. Blockages not only impact performance, they're also fire hazards!

REFRIGERATOR 

To keep your fridge working well, clean dirt and lint from its condenser coils once or twice a year. Access the coils on the back of the unit or behind the front grill, and use a vacuum attachment or coil brush to clear debris. Failing to remove the build-up can stress the condenser and cause expensive, premature damage.

HVAC

Change the filter in your air return as often as recommended by the manufacturer. Some types need to be replaced every 1-3 months, while others last over 6 months.

The most durable materials used today, including hardwoods, composites, stone, and tiles, can last a lifetime with the proper care and maintenance. However, they are still often replaced prior to the end of their useful life for aesthetic reasons, since styles, preferences and decorative options change over time with trends.

Over or under improving can limite the potential return on your investment. Most important is to care for what you do have to eliminate all barriers when it is time for your to list and sell your home! Feel free to call us so we can come and give you some pre-listing advice to make sure you are well prepared to earn the most money as possible on your investment.