Safe and Healthy Housing: Maintained
Regularly checking safety devices to ensure they are in working order is an important step in maintaining a safe and healthy home.
A safe and healthy home is vital for overall health, which is why Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte’s Safe and Health Housing model is foundational for all the critical repair projects we do. The eight principles of a safe and healthy home are: clean, dry, safe, ventilated, contaminant-free, pest-free, thermally-controlled, and maintained.
Let's talk about a subject at the heart of RTGC: home maintenance. I know when my family purchased our first home, it was an unwelcome and sudden chore, especially when we’d lived in apartments for years prior. You mean, we spent all that time and money saving for and finding a home, and now we have to do all kinds of new, daunting tasks to maintain it? Yes, maintaining a home might not be as exciting as binge-watching your favorite show or trying out a new recipe, but trust me, it’s equally important. A well-maintained home is like a cozy sanctuary where you can unwind and feel truly at ease. Intrigued? Let’s delve into why it matters and how you can stay on top of it without breaking a sweat.
Defining Home Maintenance
First thing’s first, what exactly is home maintenance? It’s not just about fixing leaky faucets or patching up holes in the wall (although those are crucial, too). Home maintenance encompasses a wide range of tasks aimed at preserving the comfort, safety, and value of your living area. Think of it as giving your home some much-needed TLC on a regular basis.
So, why bother? Well, homes, like anything else, wear down over time. From everyday wear and tear to seasonal changes, there are plenty of factors that can contribute to its decline. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the road, not to mention the potential safety hazards it poses to you and your loved ones. But establishing a schedule and sticking to it will help keep you on track.
Neglecting regular upkeep tasks like cleaning gutters, servicing HVAC systems, or checking for water leaks regularly can lead to serious damage over time and pricey repair bills.
Implementing Regular Maintenance in Your Home
But fear not, dear reader, for I come bearing solutions! Maintaining your home doesn’t have to be daunting. In fact, with a bit of organization and a sprinkle of elbow grease, it can be downright manageable. Here’s a simple monthly checklist to keep you on track:
Inspect & Repair
Take a walk around your home and look for any signs of damage or wear as often as possible. Ideally, you’ll do this on the same day each week but especially after storms. From cracked tiles to loose hinges, address these issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Clean & Declutter
Clutter not only reduces your usable space but can also attract pests and dust. Dedicate a couple of hours a week to decluttering and deep cleaning your home.
Check Safety Devices
Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they’re in working order, and put reminders in your devices or your paper wall calendar to check them. Safety first, always!
Service Appliances
Schedule regular maintenance for your appliances, such as HVAC systems, water heaters, and kitchen appliances. Not only will this prolong their lifespan, but it’ll also save you from unexpected breakdowns.
Garden & Exterior Maintenance
Trim overgrown bushes, clean out gutters, and inspect the exterior of your home for any signs of damage. A little outdoor TLC goes a long way in preserving your home’s curb appeal.
By tackling these tasks little by little each month, you’ll save yourself from future headaches and ensure that your humble abode remains a cozy haven for years to come. If these tasks seem financially overwhelming, check out if our no-cost repair services can assist your family in the Greater Charlotte area. And folks anywhere can access and use our helpful monthly home maintenance checklist to prevent major issues down the line. Happy maintaining!
Get Involved In Making Safe And Healthy Homes
As part of every critical home repair and accessibility modification project we do, we ensure to provide a safe and healthy home that is well maintained. You can help us support neighbors in need in this way! Whether you're a volunteer, a donor, or a partner, you can be part of making homes better for everyone. Together, let's make sure every home is a happy and healthy place to live!