3 Essential Home Repairs for Maintaining Your Property: Insulation, Curb Appeal, and General Maintenance - Austin Real Estate Agent

3 Essential Home Repairs for Maintaining Your Property: Insulation, Curb Appeal, and General Maintenance

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Home maintenance checklist: Insulation, curb appeal and general maintenance
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3 Essential Home Repairs for Maintaining Your Property

Home repairs and maintenance are an important part of owning a property. Whether you’re a homeowner or a landlord, keeping up with regular maintenance and repairs can help prevent costly issues down the road and maintain the overall value of your property. Since it is in my nature to educate and provide value it is my expert opinion these three items are essential to home ownership maintenance.

A beautiful brick home with a long driveway, surrounded by well-manicured lawn and landscaping, showcasing the property's polished curb appeal

Insulation

Proper insulation is essential for keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, which can help you save money on your energy bills. There are several types of insulation available, including fiberglass, cellulose, rockwool, spray foam, and cotton insulation. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to choose the right type of insulation for your home and have it installed by a professional. In Texas, the most common types of insulation used in residential homes are fiberglass and cellulose insulation. Gaining in popularity is Spray foam insulation.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass insulation is popular because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and has a high R-value per inch. It is commonly used in walls, attics, and crawl spaces. The hot and humid weather in Texas can cause moisture issues and fiberglass insulation can be susceptible to moisture damage, but with proper ventilation, and installation it can be effective.

Cellulose

Cellulose insulation is also commonly used in Texas homes. Like fiberglass, it is inexpensive, but it is made from recycled paper products and is often treated with fire retardants. It is also a good option for homeowners looking for an eco-friendly insulation option. Cellulose insulation is available in loose-fill form and is often used in walls, attics, and crawl spaces.

Spray foam

Spray foam insulation is gaining in popularity because of its also high R-value per inch and ability to create an airtight seal, it is good for filling gaps and cracks that other types of insulation may miss.  This type of insulation can help with air conditioning and heating efficiency.

A close-up of a professional injecting spray foam insulation into the walls of a house to improve energy efficiency and reduce drafts

Ultimately, the choice of insulation will depend on your individual needs and the specific requirements of your home, budget, and personal preferences. It’s always recommended to consult with a professional to determine which type of insulation is best for your situation and how it can be properly installed to ensure its effectiveness.

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal refers to the overall visual appearance of your property, including your landscaping, paint, and exterior features. Maintaining your property’s curb appeal can help increase its value and make it more attractive to potential buyers or renters. It can also help to increase the overall rental or selling price. (who doesn’t want that?) First impressions can also help to reduce the time it takes to find a buyer or renter.

There are a few simple things you can do to make a big impact. A property with good curb appeal is more likely to attract interest, increase its value, and stand out from the competition. 

A beautiful covered back patio, surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful and private outdoor living space for relaxation and entertaining

There are several ways to improve a property’s curb appeal, including:

  • Maintaining a well-manicured lawn and garden: A well-maintained lawn and garden can make a property look more attractive and well-cared for.
  • Painting or staining the deck and fence: A fresh coat of paint or stain can make a big difference in the overall appearance of a property.
  • Adding new plants or flowers: Adding new plants or flowers can give a property a fresh, updated look and can help to improve the overall aesthetic.
  • Updating the exterior lighting: Updating the exterior lighting can make a property look more inviting and can also help to improve the overall safety and security of the property.
  • Power washing: Power washing can help to remove dirt and grime from the exterior of a property and make it look cleaner and more attractive.
  • Tree trimming: Tree trimming is important to your overall curb appeal because it not only provides an aesthetically pleasing look but also helps increase energy efficiency. 

A beautiful front covered patio with an inviting seating area, surrounded by tasteful landscaping and well-maintained garden for a polished and tailored curb appeal

General maintenance

Regular general maintenance is important for keeping your property in good condition and preventing major issues from arising. This includes things like caulking gaps and cracks around windows and doors, maintaining ceiling fans, and pressure washing the exterior of your home  It is also important to have your HVAC system serviced regularly and to change air filters.  

Caulking

Caulking seals gaps and cracks around windows and doors. This allows for less passage of drafts and air leaks. Caulking improves energy efficiency and prevents moisture damage. Caulking should be inspected and reapplied as needed, to ensure that it remains effective over time.

A close up of a person's hand smoothing a white caulk into a crack around a window, preventing drafts and increasing energy efficienc

Ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can be an energy-efficient way to cool your home in the summer and redistribute the warm air during the winter. Regular maintenance such as cleaning and tightening loose screws can help to ensure that ceiling fans continue to work effectively. Living in Texas these are a necessity! 

A traditional ceiling fan hanging from the ceiling of a living room used to create a comfortable and energy-efficient environment.

Pressure washing

Pressure washing is an effective way to remove dirt and grime from the exterior of a home. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, brick, and concrete.  You will be surprised how big of a visual difference this makes. Don’t forget your door while you are at it!

A person power washing the exterior of a house, removing dirt, grime and mildew to enhance the appearance and protect the siding

Regular general maintenance should also include HVAC system servicing and changing air filters, checking for leaks, and inspecting the foundation and structural elements of the home. By maintaining the property on a regular basis you will save yourself money in the long run. 

So, take the time to invest in your property and keep it in good condition. Be sure to consult a professional to determine what type of insulation is best for your home. 

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