August 2022 saw the sale of around 685,000 new homes at an average price of $521,000. The price is higher compared to the same period last year. This shows that a house is a major investment for anyone.
Once you buy a home, you expect it will provide service for a long time. However, this is not always the case, as many apartments only have a lifespan of 50 to 60 years. On the other hand, concrete structures can last up to 100 years. After this period, the material used to construct the house starts degenerating, making it difficult to repair. The following tips can help you increase your home’s lifespan:
Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Home’s Foundation
The home’s foundation is one of the most critical parts of the house. It supports the structure and prevents it from sinking or collapsing. That’s why it’s essential to regularly inspect and maintain the foundation.
If you don’t inspect and maintain the foundation, it could start to sink or collapse over time. This could cause a lot of damage to the home and even lead to injuries. So ensure you inspect and maintain the foundation regularly to avoid any problems.
If you do find damage, be sure to get it repaired as soon as possible. You should also take measures to prevent water damage on the foundation. You should ensure your gutters are clean and in good repair and that your landscaping slopes away from your foundation.
Protect Your Home from the Elements
One of the best ways to protect your home and extend its lifespan is by protecting it from the elements. This means taking steps to keep rain, snow, wind, and sun from damaging your home. Here are some tips for doing that:
- Install gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the home.
- Make sure the roof is in good condition and seal any leaks.
- Install storm windows or window treatments that can help block wind and sun.
- Lay down a protective layer over the driveway and sidewalks to keep them from melting in the sun or freezing in the cold.
- Using wood-plastic or WPC wall panel material for the exterior. The material is durable and resists damage from water and mold. It is also stylish and comes in various colors.
These are just a few ways to protect your home from the elements. By taking these steps, you can help extend the lifespan of your home and keep it looking its best.
Keep Your Home Free of Pests
One of the best ways to ensure that your home lasts as long as possible is to keep it free of pests. Pests can cause a lot of damage to your home, not to mention the fact that they can also be a health hazard. You can do several things to keep pests out of your home, including installing screens on all of your windows and doors, keeping your yard clean and free of debris, and using pest control products.
You should also seal any holes or crack to prevent pests from entering the house. Storing items inside enclosed containers also reduces the risk of pests. Lastly, regularly cleaning and vacuuming your home also helps to keep it free of pests. By taking these precautions, you can help to prolong the lifespan of your home.
Perform Regular Maintenance on Major Systems
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your home in good condition and ensuring its lifespan. Regularly inspecting and servicing major systems such as the roof, windows, and HVAC unit can prevent minor problems from turning into costly repairs down the road.
Changing the filters on your HVAC unit at least every three months is essential and checking your roof for missing or damaged shingles regularly. These simple steps will help keep your home in good shape and prolong its life.
Avoid Planting Trees Close to the House
The closer a tree is planted to the home, the more likely it is to cause damage. Roots can grow under the house and cause cracks in the foundation. The tree’s weight can cause the roof to sag or collapse. For these reasons, it is essential to avoid planting trees close to the house.
If you already have trees close to your home, have them regularly checked by a certified arborist to ensure they are not dangerous to your property. You should remember that the tree could fall and damage your home when severe weather comes. In addition, if you have dead or dying trees, it is best to have them removed before they fall and cause damage.
Your home is a big investment, so you want to do everything you can to protect that investment and increase its lifespan. Following these tips can help ensure that your home stands strong for years to come!
