Your home is your responsibility and you want to protect your investment and care for your property. You also hope your house is safe for you and your family. Here are a few things every homeowner should know to maintain a home.
Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Safety
Install smoke detectors in every bedroom and on every floor of the home. Test household smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms monthly and change the batteries twice every year. Working detectors provide an early warning if your home catches fire.
Checking for Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that is both odorless and colorless. The only way to know that your home has unsafe levels is with a detector. Some common sources of carbon monoxide in your home are propane, wood, natural gas and gasoline.
To prevent the build-up of CO in your home, always open your flue when you use your fireplace. Have your chimney inspected regularly. Do not run your car’s engine inside an attached garage. Charcoal or gas grills should only be used outside in a well-ventilated area.
Every Homeowner Should Know About Roof Maintenance
The average shingle roof will last 15-20 years. Every homeowner should know the signs of roof damage. While most people know that a severe storm can cause problems, they don’t know that roofs can also be damaged by the sun, animals, and moss or algae growth.
One way to tell if your roof is in need of replacement or repair is to check for visible signs. If the shingles are curled, they will need to be replaced soon. A small patch of missing or damaged shingles can easily be replaced. However, if there are several areas of missing shingles or many shingles are breaking or curling, it may be time for a new roof. A sagging roof is a bad sign, too. This could indicate structural damage and the need for a roof replacement.
Have your home inspected by a professional for repair tips and advice.
Homeowners Should Hire Pros for Big Projects
Don’t hesitate to hire professional help for home repair projects. Unless you are a professional electrician, don’t try the DIY approach on those household projects. For instance, if you build an addition on to your home and need it wired, hire a licensed electrician. Find a contractor with good reviews and who is experienced in the sort of work you need. Attempting to handle electrical problems yourself could be dangerous and create a fire hazard.
HomeSpec offers inspections on homes in Memphis and North Mississippi area. Contact us to schedule our services.