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| Home Maintenance |
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Regular home maintenance makes good sense. Whether you have a mortgage or are renting your home, it is likely that the agreements you signed stipulated the property should be well maintained. In addition, completing small maintenance jobs on a regular basis are likely to prevent nastier, expensive versions rearing their heads at all!
So do you really need to attend evening classes to keep your house in tip top condition? The simple answer is no! Most home maintenance is common sense and can be done without the need for specialist skills. Of course, there will still be some tasks best left to the professionals for example, electrical, gas or plumbing work.
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Drains and Pipework
Regularly cleaning pipes and drains should prevent the build up of grease and other sludge which could ultimately lead to you having to call in professional grime busters!
There are plenty of products on the market that rid pipes of all things gungy, but soda crystals are probably the cheapest and one of the most effective. Once every two or three months should be enough to keep your pipework pristine!
Windows & Doors
Looking after windows and external doors is essential for good home security. Wooden units should be properly maintained with regular cleaning. They should be repainted or varnished at least every 5 or 6 years or at intervals specified in any mortgage or tenancy documents. Internal and external door handle mechanisms should also be lubricated to prevent elements seizing or snapping.
It may also be a condition of your home and contents insurance policies that you have particular door and window locks fitted. Check your policies carefully to make sure you're complying with any security conditions.
Heating Systems
You should arrange to have your heating and hot water systems regularly and professionally serviced to ensure they run smoothly and efficiently. There are several companies offering monthly payment schemes that include an annual service, breakdown cover and often boiler repair or replacement.
Alarms
Regularly testing and servicing your home alarm system is essential for peace of mind. You may also enjoy a reduction in insurance premiums as a result of having an alarm installed. If so, ensuring it works correctly will prevent you having to pay a possible excess in the event that it doesn't go off when needed!
Smoke Alarms
Smoke Alarms are now a common sight in most homes and can be bought inexpensively from all good DIY stores. But fitting them is only half the story. For them to be effective when needed most, they must be tested regularly with batteries replaced immediately if needed. Don't rely on the occasional slice of burnt toast to test them, make it a part of your maintenance routine!
Guttering
Clear guttering, particularly during Autumn and Winter when falling leaves tend to clog them. This will prevent cracks, breaks and an ineffective draining system.
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