Once you become a home-owner you’ll likely find yourself in Bunnings regularly – and your shed or garage filling up with products and tools to help you keep your property maintained. Whether you move into a new build or live in an established property, you’ll probably agree with us when we say that there is always a task or job to be done around the home.
Maintaining your property is an important step to avoid more extensive damages or problems occurring. So, here are some key things to keep a close eye on around your home, as well as some handy home maintenance tips.
Water works
Here in Perth, we’re lucky that flooding isn’t something we have to worry about like it is in other parts of Australia. But that doesn’t mean your home is safe from water damage. Appliances such as washing machines can cause water damage in your home, along with the everyday wear-and-tear on your plumbing.
Dishwashers
Clogged dishwasher filters and pipes can lead to leaks, as can loose or worn door seals. To help avoid any problems, scrape plates and dishes into the bin before loading into the machine, regularly clean out your dishwasher filter and don’t forget to clean the door seal every so often too. To deep clean the pipes, try using vinegar or a commercial cleaner to shift any limescale or grease build up.
Top tip: Once your dishwasher has finished its cycle, open the door and leave it ajar if you can. Doing this after every wash will help extend the life of your machine’s door seal.
Washing machines and fridges
Any appliance that has a connection to a water supply can cause an unexpected problem. It’s a good idea to regularly check the pipes and connections – and ensure installation is done correctly in the first instance. Avoid any kinks in the water pipes and make sure they’re not in contact with anything that could cause them damage in any way.
Flexi hoses
You know the ones we’re talking about; the hoses that are covered in the stainless-steel mesh under the sink in your bathroom and kitchen. These are commonly used because they’re flexible, but they don’t last forever so it’s a good idea to check them every-so-often. By checking them regularly you’ll be able to spot any potential problems with them and replace, before the worst happens.
Top tip: Look out for bulging, signs of rust or other indicators of wear for early signs you need to replace the hose.
Secure and sound
After the roof and walls, your windows and doors are a vital part of your home, but they’re often overlooked when it comes to home maintenance. It’s a good idea to regularly check on the condition of your doors and windows to ensure your property is secure, but also identify any structural issues your property may have, early.
Sliding doors and windows can stick on the tracks, especially if not opened regularly or when the season changes and the temperature drops or soars. Take some time to clean the tracks thoroughly and you may find applying some WD40 helps with the movement.
In some instances, problems with doors and windows can be an indication of a bigger problem. Brickwork, the lintel, your roof and water can all have an impact and warp the frames. If you start to have difficulties opening or shutting a door or window, it’s a good idea to do some further investigation.
Top tip: If you discover a small chip or crack in your window or door glass, apply a few coats of clear nail varnish over the top. This will make it watertight until you can get the pane replaced.
Outside in
Don’t forget outside! The maintenance of the outdoor parts of your home – and your garden – can help you avoid costly repairs or insurance claims.
When a new season rolls round, check your gutters and downpipes. Remove any debris or blockages that could stop water from flowing freely or that could ignite during bushfire season.
If you have trees around your property, you’ll know that fallen leaves can get everywhere (including gutters). It’s a good idea to trim back large branches or overgrown foliage and sweep up any fallen leaves to help avoid any related problems. You may also want to get any particularly large or old trees inspected for disease, as a fallen tree can cause significant damage.
Termites and other pests can impact new-build properties as well as established ones. Getting an expert in on an annual basis to complete a pest inspection can help identify hidden costly issues, as well as provide protection for the year ahead.
Keep a close eye on your brickwork or rendering, as cracks can indicate a problem that needs to be thoroughly investigated. And don’t forget about your roof! Look out for roof tiles that may have moved, rusting on metal or Colorbond® sheets, any signs of water damage or anything that could impact the integrity of the roof structure.
Top tip: Keep things such as your aircon unit, water heater or solar panels clear of debris, cobwebs and dust to ensure they work optimally. Regular servicing could also help keep running costs down.
Home maintenance may be a chore, but it’s all part of being a homeowner. By regularly looking after your property and being ahead of any issues, you can help save yourself money and stress on major repairs, and even help avoid claims on your home insurance.
Police & Nurses Limited (P&N Bank) ABN 69 087 651 876 AFSL 240701 acts under its own AFSL and under an agreement with the issuer Insurance Australia Limited trading as CGU Insurance ABN 11 000 016 722, AFSL 227681. Any advice provided is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs (“your personal circumstances”). Before using this advice to decide whether to purchase a product, you should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations from CGU Insurance.