🧼 How to Build a Home Maintenance Plan (Even If You’re Clueless)
If your current plan is “fix it when it breaks,” congratulations — you’re running your house straight into the ground. Here’s how to stop bleeding money, prevent disasters, and finally feel in control of your home. 🧠 Step 1: Understand the 3 Threat Zones Your home breaks down in three main categories: 1. Water – leaks, rot, clogs, floods 2. Air – HVAC, insulation, drafty doors/windows 3. Time – wear & tear, neglected parts, aging systems Your plan needs to tackle all three before they bite you. 🗓 Step 2: Break It Down by Timeframe 🔁 Monthly Tasks These are small but prevent huge failures: - Check for leaks under sinks - Change air filters - Flush toilets in unused bathrooms - Look for signs of pests (droppings, chewed wood, sounds) 📅 Quarterly Tasks Bigger checkups: - Test GFCI outlets - Clean range hood filter - Check exterior caulking - Vacuum fridge coils - Clean dryer vent hose 📆 Annual Tasks These save you thousands if caught early: - Inspect roof and attic for leaks - Drain and flush hot water heater - Test sump pump (if you have one) - Inspect fence, foundation, driveway - Seal exterior wood and paint touch-ups 📋 Step 3: Make a Simple Tracker (No Fancy App Needed) Create a Google Sheet, notebook, or whiteboard with columns: Task Last Done Next Due Notes Change AC Filter June 15 July 15 Use 16x25x1 size Flush Water Heater Oct 2023Oct 2024Drain 3–4 gallons Pro Tip: Print a version and tape it inside a utility closet door. Update it monthly. 🔧 Step 4: Know When to DIY vs Call Pro Here’s a quick cheat: - If it involves gas, electrical panels, or roof climbing — hire someone - If it’s mechanical, accessible, and under $100 to screw up — try it 🧰 Step 5: Build a Go-To Toolkit No maintenance plan works without tools. Start with these: - Cordless drill - Caulk gun - Stud finder - Plunger - Utility knife - Tape measure - Adjustable wrench - Flashlight/headlamp - Gloves & safety glasses - 👉 Homeowner Starter Tool Kit