When you buy a home, there are seemingly countless dream projects or pursue. However, along with updating the landscaping and installing a pool, you likely have serious repairs that need to be addressed. These are problems that the inspector pointed out or you recently discovered after moving in. Call a contractor immediately when you discover these three issues or they will only get worse.
Window Replacement
Most people don’t realize that windows don’t last forever. Old windows can lose their weather stripping and insulation, creating leaks and inviting moisture into your house. Timely window replacement is particularly important if you have high windows and skylights in your home, as water can leak through onto your floors and furniture. Even if you live in a dry area, old windows have poor energy efficiency, which means your monthly bills will continue to rise over time as the cold air escapes in the summer.
While a home inspector may have looked at your windows when you moved in, it’s a good idea to get them inspected again by a professional. Your replacement windows will look better and protect your home in the long run.
Make sure you hire a local window company because these contractors will understand the unique needs of residents. For example, by searching for replacement windows in Portage you can find experts who know how to protect you from the cold Michigan winters.
Roof Repair
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Installing a new roof can be an expensive and invasive project, which means it’s something many homeowners put off. This is coupled with the fact that unless there is a noticeable leak, you might not think there is a real problem. Most people only look at the edge of the roof and can’t see moisture and debris that are pooling in the middle. Even slanted roofs have valleys that can hold water after a big storm.
If you want to avoid another roof replacement in the near future, invest in quality materials for this project. While there is nothing wrong with fiberglass asphalt shingles, there are some roof materials that are more durable and longer-lasting. A slate roof, clay tiles, or wood shake shingles can increase your home’s curb appeal (and also its selling price) while also protecting your roof for years to come. By catching issues early, you might not need a new roof, but just a few repairs to your shingles.
Heating and Air Maintenance
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Is there anything worse than your air conditioner breaking in the middle of summer? What about your heat refusing to turn on in cold weather? The average cost of an HVAC repair call starts around $100 but you can expect to pay thousands more if your whole system needs to be replaced.
Take time to keep up with HVAC maintenance to make sure your air conditioner is in good shape. Contractors can make sure your unit meets energy star standards and extend its lifespan by keeping it clean. These maintenance techs can clean out your hoses and vents, which will keep air flowing. If they do a great job, your HVAC system should keep running for years. Try to schedule HVAC maintenance twice per year: In the spring and in the fall. This way you know your unit can run during extreme temperatures without risk of breaking.
It’s understandable that homeowners can’t fix everything at once. They might budget for gutters one month and then save up for chimney repair for the next month or two. However, not all projects can stay on the back-burner. These three issues need to be addressed immediately to improve your energy efficiency and protect your belongings.