It’s happened to many of us. The home repair list has gotten so long over the past few months. At this point, you may not know which tasks to take care of first, which to do last, and when to do all of the other jobs in between.
After all, getting the list done takes lots and lots of time, energy, and precious money. Furthermore, if you are looking to sell your home, this to-do list has now become a must-do list before you think about putting your house on the market.
In a recent article on CNNMoney.com, the writer suggests to pay attention to whatever will cause you the most damage and the most expense if you leave it unattended; that is the repair that should take priority. Read below the recommended order of your to-do list from CNNMoney.
No 1. Electrical system Wiring problems can lead to fires and executions. Danger signs include: circuit breakers that trip frequently, lights that dim when you turn on a vacuum cleaner or outlets that are loose, hot, or accept only two-prong plugs. Spend a few hundred dollars for a licensed electrician to examine your main panel to identify any problems.
No 2. Basement There is no point in doing other repairs when the foundation of the house needs fixing. You can spot danger signs that signify problems such as bowed or split beams, rotted posts, piles of sawdust, tiny mud trails from termites, or large cracks in the masonry foundation. Take note especially if the cracks are horizontal. Horizontal cracks tend to indicate a bigger problem. Make sure to keep your basement dry (check the landscape slope, gutters, and the roof) to avoid these issues. A contractor will typically look at the situation for you free of charge.
No 3. Roof Water leaking into your home can lead to major problems: rot, insects, mold, or electrical shortages. Look for dampness or stains on the ceiling, broken shingles, or green algae growth. When it comes to having a reputable roofer inspect your home, ask around and seek references. This is a major job that has to be done correctly. You can be proactive by doing these things:
- Prune tree limbs so that they are always at least 10 feet from the roof to keep squirrels away and to let moisture evaporate quickly after storms.
- Immediately replace shingles that have blown off.
- Repair small leaks promptly.
You can read the entire article and repair list at CNNMoney.com.
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