We know that home maintenance can be tricky, especially for our first-time homeowners. We hope these tips will keep you on track for the best "home sweet home" experience you can have.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
To clean cabinets wipe them down with regular soap and water. Do not use any abrasive cleaners. Adjust the doors and drawers for proper alignment as needed.
FREQUENCY
Weekly/Yearly
Vacuum at least once a week. Also have a professional carpet cleaner clean them once a year. Do not use the rental carpet cleaners as they will set in stains.
FREQUENCY
Seasonally
When winter weather comes do not use ice melt on any concrete. The chemicals will eat away at the concrete and damage the finish.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Re-caulk any areas where adjacent surfaces are coming together in order to keep them sealed and avoid water damage.
WATCH:
CaulkingFREQUENCY
As Needed
Run dishwasher cleaner through a cycle every so often to clean the components inside. Also By using rinse aid it will dry the kitchen ware better and leave less water in the dishwasher after a cycle.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
To freshen up the disposal run lemon peels through it. Also to clean the blades run ice through it.
WATCH:
Garbage DisposalFREQUENCY
As Needed
Adjust locks as needed so they latch correctly. Tighten screws overtime they will loosen.
FREQUENCY
Yearly
It is recommended to have the dryer vent cleaned as it can collect lint in the pipe and can be a potential fire hazard as well as decrease the drying efficiency of the dryer.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Clean the glass regularly but do not use anything abrasive to clean it. It will scratch the glass.
FREQUENCY
Bi-Annually
Seal any penetrations
FREQUENCY
Yearly
Pressure wash the exterior siding to prevent the build up of mold and mildew.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Over time moisture can build up inside the firebox. Turn on quarterly to ensure proper functionality and to help control the moisture in the firebox. Do not use any ammonia base products to clean the glass on the firebox.
FREQUENCY
Bi-Annually
To keep the grout lines clean use a grout sealer to seal them.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Keep the door and chain lubricated to avoid squeaky parts.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
The grates on the cooktop are cast iron and should not be washed with soap. It will dry the oils out of the cast iron. As the cast iron gets older you can recondition the cast iron grates by lightly rubbing them with cooking oil and cooking it in the oven at 350ºF for and hour.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
The bottom of the oven should be cleaned often. Do not use foil on the bottom of the oven as the flame from the gas can melt the foil and damage the oven.
FREQUENCY
Bi-Annually
Granite is porous and can be stained. Clean and seal the surface with a granite or stone sealer to protect it.
FREQUENCY
Bi-Annually
Clear your gutters of any collected debris or leaves to prevent water from creeping under the roof and ice damming in the winter.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Never use a wet mop to clean as the moisture will damage the floor. For scratches a furniture stain pen works great to hide them away.
FREQUENCY
Monthly
Replace air filters every 2-3 months to keep the unit running efficiently and to prevent the unit from malfunctioning.
READ:
HVAC Maintenance TipsFREQUENCY
Bi-Annually
It is recommended to have an authorized HVAC technician inspect and service the unit twice a year. Once before the AC is turned on and once before the heat is turned on.
READ:
HVAC Maintenance TipsFREQUENCY
Seasonally
Please reference the paperwork provided at closing
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Always use non-abrasive cleaners to prevent scratching or damaging the surface. Do not set anything hot on the marble surface. High heat with burn and discolor marble.
FREQUENCY
Monthly
Clean or replace the filters as they can build up grease.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Replace the water filter when noted to keep the water clean and the flow consistent.
FREQUENCY
Every 3 Years
Have a roofing professional inspect the roof for damage or leaks.
FREQUENCY
Yearly
Depending on how big your home is and how many people live there dictates how often it needs to be pumped out.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Keep and eye on corners and edges in showers. If they become cracked or open re-seal them with a siliconized color matched caulk that matches the grout.
WATCH:
Shower TileFREQUENCY
As Needed
Over time slate will dry out to a dull grey color. Rub in linseed oil or baby oil to bring back the dark rich shine.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Keep the track of the door clean and clear of debris to ensure the door roles smoothly.
FREQUENCY
Yearly
Replace backup batteries once a year. Test the smoke detectors once a month to ensure proper functionality.
FREQUENCY
Bi-Annually
Seal the grout lines to keep them protected especially around the cooking surfaces.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
As the trim expands and contracts with the humidity levels, the caulking is bound to crack. Re-caulk these areas to keep the trim looking fresh and new.
WATCH:
CaulkingFREQUENCY
Weekly
Sweep and vacuum as needed at least once a week. Do not use the beater bars on the vacuums as it could damage the floors. Use the flooring manufactures recommended product for washing the floors.
FREQUENCY
Yearly
Keep an eye on the water lines feeding the washer. Over time they can start to go bad and start to leak. If they are showing signs of being bridle or cracking go ahead and replace them.
FREQUENCY
Yearly
Contact a licensed plumber to drain the water heater once a year to prevent the build up of minerals in the bottom of the tank. This causes tanks to rust out and leak.
FREQUENCY
As Needed
Replace the weather stripping on any exterior door if it becomes damaged. This can prevent air leakage and help keep critters out.
WATCH:
WeatherstrippingFREQUENCY
As Needed
Keep the windows locked not only for security reasons but it also creates a sound and moisture barrier.
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