9 Tips to Help Keep Your Home Safe & Sturdy

Check your home’s caulking. Have you looked around your home to make sure it’s sealed well and there’s no exposure that could damage wood or other areas of your home?

Clean your dryer vents. A lot of us don’t think about doing this, but cleaning your dryer vents not only makes them more energy efficient, but it can also prevent an accidental fire.

Keep up with your roof repair. Check your ceiling and/or attic for leaks and fix them so they don’t become bigger issues.

Sweep your chimney. Making sure your chimney is clean and clear can prevent any accidental fires and make the fires you build more efficient.

Change your HVAC filters. Even by using a cheap, thin filter—the kind most HVAC companies recommend—you will preserve the life of your HVAC system and help your unit provide cleaner air.

Take care of any pest problems. Whether you do this yourself or hire a pest prevention company, don’t let any insects or rodents cause issues that could turn into long-term problems.

Fix your plumbing leaks quickly. I just had a plumbing situation happen to me, in fact. My sink started leaking and I tried fixing it, but in the end I had to call a plumber and it was important that I did. I’ve had several friends have huge plumbing leaks because they didn’t solve them in the beginning.

Fix any peeling paint on your home’s exterior. Not only does this look bad, but it can also lead to wood deterioration. Painting over peeling paint can extend the life of the exterior of your home and help protect those inside it.

Be aware of any drainage problems. As we enter fall, the leaves will start dropping and clogging our gutters, so make sure you keep yours clean and prevent any drainage in your home and around its foundation.