One of the most critical responsibilities of a homeowner is to understand and stay up-to-date on necessary maintenance and repair work that needs to be performed on their homes. Not only can staying informed and having a general knowledge of home repairs save homeowners significant amounts of money, but it can also help protect the longevity and overall quality of the home.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recently surveyed its members, revealing that, on average, around 1-4% of a home’s value is spent annually on upkeep and maintenance. This number may not seem significant at first glance, but it begins to add up when applied over several years. Taking proactive measures to understand maintenance needs for your home can help reduce the costs associated with general upkeep. According to one estimate by Fine Homebuilding Magazine, many common repair jobs in an older property cost between $200-$500 – meaning that learning about these topics beforehand could save homeowners hundreds of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.
In addition, knowledge in this area can also give homeowners peace of mind when it comes time to sell their properties. Knowing how certain parts of the house operate and potential signs indicating certain repairs are needed will make it easier for sellers to find buyers interested in their property and more likely to receive top dollar. The NAHB survey further indicated that sellers who have regularly maintained their properties since buying them tend to see returns on their investments anywhere between 70-80%.
However, a few maintenance and repair efforts will require professional assistance, especially when the task is hazardous, complicated, or beyond the homeowner’s skillset. Here are a few home maintenance tasks you should leave to the pros if you’re not sure what you’re doing:
Roofing Repairs
Homeowners should avoid roofing repairs because they require the expertise and skill of a trained professional. Attempting to perform these tasks without the proper qualifications could lead to serious safety risks and further damage to the home.
Roofs are an integral part of any house, so repairs and maintenance must be done correctly to protect the structural integrity of the building and its occupants. When it comes to repairing a roof, even something seemingly simple as replacing broken or missing shingles, can lead to long-term problems if not handled properly. This is because broken or missing shingles can create openings for water infiltration, potentially causing mold growth and rot – both of which can quickly spread throughout the structure and even weaken load-bearing walls. In addition, since rooftop work requires individuals to climb onto the roof itself physically, certain risks come with this activity that only an experienced professional will know how to handle safely.
Moreover, specialized tools are needed to diagnose and repair a roof properly. For example, a unique tool called an infrared camera might be needed to identify potential weak spots that could require more extensive repairs. Additionally, many roofs require unique materials such as waterproof sealant or insulation foam to ensure their longevity once repaired – something only a trained expert would recognize when making changes on the roof itself.
Plumbing Repairs
Plumbing repairs should also be left to professionals. This is because plumbing requires specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and repair any issue. Additionally, many fixtures used for plumbing need specific parts that only a trained professional will have access to or know how to install correctly.
Moreover, the risk of flooding and water damage from an incorrectly performed plumbing job could be devastating and expensive if not taken care of quickly. To ensure your home remains safe from potential water damage, you should leave these tasks to experienced professionals who understand how all the components work together safely without causing further damage.
A specialized home contractor in plumbing repair needs the qualifications and experience necessary to diagnose and repair plumbing systems safely. These professionals are usually part of a certified professional trade organization, such as the American Society of Plumbing Engineers or the National Association of Home Builders, so it’s essential to research before hiring one.
Electrical Work
Finally, homeowners should always leave these tasks to professionals due to electrical work’s complexity and potential risks. Electrical systems are subject to various safety regulations that only an experienced electrician will know, including local building codes that differ from state to state.
Additionally, most household appliances require specific types of wiring and specialized knowledge and tools for repairs or installations. Moreover, certain fixtures in your home may need to be grounded or bonded correctly before they can safely operate – something only a qualified electrician would be able to do correctly.
Because of the complexity of this type of work and its potential risks, it’s highly recommended that homeowners hire licensed electricians for any installation or repair job regarding their home’s electrical system. Look for professionals certified by the National Electric Code Council or other approved organizations and ask for references before making any decisions.
Final Thoughts
By understanding some repairs that require a professional’s help, homeowners can protect their properties from potential damage and save valuable time and money in the long run. With little research and knowledge, you can rest assured that your home is safe and secure without worrying about costly mistakes or unnecessary repairs.
