Congratulations on becoming a new homeowner! As exciting as it is to have your own space, it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining the property. To help you keep your home in top shape, we’ve compiled an outdoor maintenance checklist specifically for new homeowners. This list includes essential services such as generator maintenance, septic tank pumping, roofing inspections, and garage door maintenance.
By taking care of these tasks regularly, you can prevent more significant problems down the road and ensure that your home stays in good condition for years to come. Additionally, regular maintenance helps hold the value of your property and makes it more attractive to potential buyers should you ever decide to sell. We know that taking care of a home can be overwhelming and stressful at times, but with this checklist, you’ll have a clear guide to follow and can tackle one task at a time. So, take a deep breath, and let’s get started on keeping your new home in tip-top shape!
Have an Expert Examine Your Generator
As a responsible homeowner, including generator services in your outdoor maintenance checklist is important. This piece of essential equipment keeps your home powered during outages and storms. But, like any other mechanical device, generators require regular inspections to ensure they function correctly and safely when the time comes. That’s why it’s necessary to have an expert check your machine regularly.
An expert generator technician can check for potential issues and make the necessary fixes. They will also be able to advise you on how to maintain your generator between service appointments properly. They will check the oil levels, air filters, and battery to ensure your equipment runs at peak performance. In addition, they will also check the fuel system, including the tank and lines, to ensure they are free of leaks and blockages.
Having an expert inspect your generator is a small investment that can save you later. It is also vital for ensuring safety. So, remember to schedule regular appointments with a qualified technician. Knowing that your generator is ready to keep your home powered when you need it the most will give you peace of mind that you can’t put a price tag on.
Have a Bug Exterminator Visit
Bug extermination services are essential for protecting your home from pests and maintaining a healthy living environment. These services involve identifying and eliminating unwanted bugs or insects, such as ants, roaches, bed bugs, and more.
A professional exterminator will use various methods, such as pesticides, traps, and exclusion techniques, to eliminate the bugs and prevent them from returning. They will also provide you with tips and advice on how to keep your home bug-free in the future.
Regular bug exterminations can help prevent infestations, protect your health and safety, and ensure your home remains comfortable and enjoyable.
Clean Your Septic System
Including a septic tank pumping service in your outdoor maintenance checklist might be something you overlook as a new property owner. A septic system is the most vital feature of your home’s plumbing. Unfortunately, it often goes unnoticed until there’s a problem. Regular maintenance, such as septic tank pumping, can prevent bigger issues and prolong the life of the equipment.
A septic tank pumping service removes the accumulated sludge and scum from the tank. The process is essential because these materials build up and clog the system over time, resulting in backups. A professional technician will pump out the tank and dispose of the waste properly. In addition, they will inspect the tank for cracks, leaks, or other damage.
Regular pumping is crucial for the proper functioning of your septic system and is important for maintaining the health of your soil and preventing pollution. So, remember to add a septic tank pumping service to your to-do list and schedule regular appointments at your local septic service.
Complete Well Maintenance
Do you live on a property with a well? Then well maintenance should be added to your outdoor maintenance checklist. It confirms that your well is operating correctly and is providing safe, clean water. Regular maintenance extends the life of the equipment too. Some key steps in maintaining the well include routine inspections, water testing, and cleaning or disinfecting as needed.
One aspect is regular inspection. Water testing is a critical step. It should be done by a professional inspector, who can check for contaminants or water quality problems. They will identify potential dangers and helps you determine if any treatment or disinfecting of your well is required.
When looking for well installation services, choosing a reputable and experienced company is vital. A good installer with the proper certifications and licenses will have the knowledge and skills to properly install and maintain your well, allowing you to relax knowing it’s all taken care of.
Have Your Garage Door Serviced
A garage door service must be included on your outdoor maintenance checklist. Garage doors are part of your home’s security and aesthetic, but you probably don’t think too much about keeping it in good condition. Unfortunately, most people don’t until there’s something wrong. Routine maintenance will stop bigger issues from occurring and keep your door in good shape for much longer.
A professional appointment typically includes thoroughly inspecting the door, opener, and all components. The technician will check for worn or broken parts, loose hardware, and proper alignment. They will also lubricate all moving parts to ensure smooth operation and quietness. During the appointment, expect the contractor to check the door’s balance and adjust as needed. A door that is out of balance can wear out the opener and cause damage to the door itself.
Besides regular maintenance, it’s also important to be mindful of the signs that your garage door needs service. It may be time for a service appointment if it is slow to open or close or is difficult to operate. Regular garage door service helps with your home’s safety and security and keeps you from being handed a bill.
Schedule Regular Roofing Inspections
Roof maintenance should be near the top of your outdoor maintenance checklist. Your roof is the first line of defense against the elements, and it plays a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage and leaks. In addition, regular maintenance, such as roofing inspections, can help you with a roof replacement. You don’t want to have to pay for an entire roof if you could have prevented it with routine roof repairs in the first place.
A roof inspection typically includes thoroughly examining the roof’s condition, including checking for cracked, curled, or missing shingles and any signs of wear or damage. The roofing contractor will also check for proper ventilation and insulation, which are important for preventing moisture damage and energy loss. They will also look at the flashing and sealant around chimneys, vents, and other penetrations to make sure they are secure and properly sealed.
Along with regular maintenance, it’s also important to be mindful of the signs that your roof needs attention. For instance, it may be time for an inspection if you notice any leaks, water stains, or missing shingles. Regular roof maintenance must have on your routine tasks list, and it helps keep your building more structurally sound.
Preventative Plumbing Maintenance
Plumbing maintenance is another part of home ownership you must have on your routine tasks list. Regular maintenance will prevent expensive repairs and ensure your plumbing system runs efficiently. One of the most important things you can do to maintain your plumbing is to hire a plumber.
A plumber will identify potential problems and perform fixes before they become major headaches. During a maintenance appointment, a plumber will typically check for leaks, assess the water pressure, and inspect the pipes for corrosion or other damage. When part of an outdoor maintenance checklist, they will also do your sprinkler system and any other outdoor features that operate with water.
Additionally, a plumber installs new fixtures and appliances when necessary, and they can also upgrade your plumbing system to be more energy efficient, saving you money on water bills. Overall, regular service and the help of a professional plumber can help keep your plumbing system in good working order.
Primary Pool Care and Maintenance
Did you take the leap and purchase a home with a swimming pool? Maybe you put one in after because it was something you’ve always wanted. Properly maintaining your pool to keep it in good condition and extend its life is crucial if you want to protect your investment. To start, regularly check the water level and maintain it between the middle and maximum mark. Ensure the pH levels are balanced and add chemicals as needed. Skim the surface daily to remove leaves and other debris. Brush the walls and floor weekly to prevent algae growth. Vacuum the pool once a week to remove any dirt and debris that’s settled at the bottom. It is also important to regularly inspect your pool equipment, such as the filter and pump, to be confident they are functioning correctly.
When checking items off your outdoor maintenance checklist, know that pool leaks are one of the most common problems uncovered. To detect a leak, monitor the water level and look for water spots in the surrounding area. If you suspect a leak, have a professional assess the situation.
Keep Solar Panels Clean
Plenty of homes are outfitted with solar panels. If your property has these modern energy-producing, money-saving, planet-protecting features, you need to know the value of keeping them in top shape to maximize energy efficiency.
First, check for debris. Walk around your panels regularly and remove any leaves, sticks, or other debris that may have accumulated on the surface. Next, wash them with water. Use a hose or bucket of water to wash off dirt and grime from the panels. Avoid using soap or other cleaning products, as they can damage the panels. Consider scheduling a professional cleaning. Having an expert come out every six to 12 months to give your panels a deep clean and check for any issues. Finally, maintain proper installation by ensuring your solar panel installation is secure and protected from potential issues.
By following these simple steps, you’ll help guarantee your panels will continue to perform optimally and provide you with clean, renewable energy. Contact a professional solar panel installation company for guidance if you have concerns or questions beyond your outdoor maintenance checklist.
Clean Your Roofing System
Let’s go back to the roof one last time. Keeping your roofing system clean is an important task that you should pay attention to. You can do it when routine maintenance is performed or separately complete the outdoor maintenance checklist task. How is it done?
First, clean your gutters using a ladder and gloves to remove leaves, sticks, and debris. It will help prevent clogging and ensure proper water flow. Next, flush your downspouts by connecting a hose to the end of each spout. Flush out any debris that may have accumulated inside. Finally, if you need help cleaning your roofing system, consider hiring a professional roofing business to inspect and clean it. They already have the tools and expertise to safely clean your gutters and downspouts and spot any potential issues needing attention.
In conclusion, as a new homeowner, taking care of all your outdoor maintenance tasks is vital to keep your home in excellent condition. You can either do the work yourself or hire a professional. Some essential services to include in your outdoor maintenance checklist are generator maintenance, bug extermination, septic tank pumping, well maintenance, and garage door services. Regular inspections, cleaning, and other services by expert technicians are key to ensuring that your home stays functional and efficient, providing you and your family with a safe and comfortable living environment.
