A few of our past blogs talked about why you shouldn’t attempt a DIY roof replacement or new siding installation. We want to assure you that there are some DIY home maintenance tasks you can (and should) be doing. Admittedly, some aren’t fun so you may want to hire a handyman or other professional to handle them. Some will save you money on heating and cooling, some will protect your home, some will improve curb appeal.
Re-Caulk Your Windows
Do your windows feel drafty but still operate well and look great? It may be the caulk around your windows. If you don’t see a continuous unbroken bead of caulk around your windows, it’s time to re-caulk them. Check out Wikihow or YouTube for exactly how to do this if you haven’t done it before. Your home improvement store has all the tools you’ll need for this job.
Replace Weather Stripping
Weather stripping on your entry doors wears out. Depending on the type you have, whether the door is subject to direct sunlight and the door itself, it may wear out in as short as 5 years. If you can pass a dollar bill through your door frame and the door itself, you likely need to replace yours. Take a piece of your old weather stripping with you to your home improvement store to ensure you get the right size and style.
Paint, Stain or Seal Your Exterior Doors
This one won’t impact your heating and cooling bills but if you have wood door, it will help your door last. Paint (or stain) protects the door from warping and rotting. It also makes for a nicer looking home.
Trim Landscaping from Your Home
Did you know that pests use your plants as a bridge from the ground to your home? You don’t want to make it any easier for ants, spiders or anything else to get in. By trimming landscaping from your siding you also help prevent siding damage. If you have trees where the branches rub against your roof or siding, trim those as well. You don’t want to wear away the granules on your shingles or scratch your siding.
Clean Your Gutters
This dreaded DIY home maintenance task is one that should be done at least twice a year. Clogged gutters are among the leading cause of water damage to homes. Damage can occur from your basement to your attic. Clean gutters ensure that the water flows from your roof away from your home. If you notice overflowing gutters and water in your home, those two things are likely related. Never want to clean your gutters again? Consider gutter covers.
Don’t Neglect Home Maintenance or You’ll Need a Contractor
We’ve had to help many homeowners with roof repair and replacement or new siding installation because of neglected home maintenance tasks. If you find yourself needing our services, we’re happy to help but we hope that these recommendations men you won’t need us until you are ready for an exterior home renovation or it’s time to replace your roof, however, if you do, call us at (336) 766-6488 or fill out our contact form.
