Owning a home sometimes feels like you have an endless to-do list – fix this, replace that – when does it end? For responsible owners, it never does. But neglecting the little things can add to big repair bills later.

With winter finally calming down, spend some time and some money have a health check-up at your home. It could save you from spending a lot more on the road.

Caulking in kitchens and bathrooms keeps water from seeping into crevices and nooks and crannies around sinks and tubs. Once the water gets in, mold thrives (especially in damp areas around showers and tubs). Worse, water infiltration could cause rotting of the wood in the frame below. Old or moldy caulk is a basic home repair, requiring only a few tools and inexpensive materials. Replacing rotten floors, joists, and wall studs is a much, much bigger job.

Fixing leaky faucets and other common household plumbing leaks can save the average homeowner about 10% on their water bills, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Leaks or burst pipes that allow water to enter walls, floors and foundations can cause significant damage, with
repair costs reaching thousands of dollars. It’s easy to spot – and fix – a leaking faucet. Finding other types of leaks can be much more difficult, even with regular inspections.

The weather will take its toll on the outdoor terraces. A few gallons of sealant will cost you $ 50 or less and a weekend afternoon of effort. Leaving your deck untreated for one or three seasons can damage it – and damage the rails and joists underneath. These repairs are a much bigger job, requiring more time and effort, and a lot more money in materials.

Many pest control companies offer termite home inspections for free, but the typical inspection costs $ 65 to $ 100, according to costhelper.com. The average homeowner who discovers termite damage spends $ 3,000 on repairs, reports Termites.com. Whole house fumigation could cost more, depending on the size of the house. But infestations caught early can be treated with spot treatments and baits, and the associated damage is likely much less severe.

Again, water is the enemy here. Check the areas around roof openings, including chimneys, exhaust ducts, and skylights, which are the most likely candidates for leaks. You will also need to go up to your attic and take a close look at the roof beams and joists near these openings. Dark spots indicate a leak. leave
roof repair for professionalseven minors.

Your exterior paint
keep your house in good condition. Most importantly, it keeps your home’s worst enemy – yes, water again! – damage to key structural components below. Look for areas of dry, chalky paint and cracked, chipping, or chipping paint. Small areas, especially the woodwork around doors and windows, can be sanded and repainted by most homeowners. For larger jobs, such as an entire house, professional painters can charge up to $ 5,000, depending on the size of the house. The longer you wait to repaint, the more likely it is that the water and
pests can cause much more damage.

7. Inspect foundations and concrete slabs for cracks and cracks.

As concrete hardens, it shrinks slightly and over time it can develop slight cracks and cracks. Such cracks are unsightly, of course, and can allow water and insects to seep in and cause more damage over time. Most homeowners can repair small cracks and cracks with a variety of inexpensive products.

For larger and more recurring cracks and bulges, contact a professional
home inspection engineer who can identify the problem, suggest appropriate solutions and advise you on the associated costs.