Now that you have moved into your new home, you’re probably eager to tackle any of the issues or maintenance needs of your home. Some of these might actually be on your home inspection report. Here are 10 DIY projects to get you started.

 

1. Trim trees and vegetation

Trees and shrubbery that are overgrown can be an eyesore, block your view of the scenery, and/or be problematic to your property causing damage to your roof, siding and foundation. Trimming your vegetation will also aid in their health. With the right tools, you can do the job yourself. When trimming trees, it’s important to cut limbs properly so that you don’t inhibit future growth.  Follow this pruning guide from Home Depot for healthy looking trees and vegetation.

 

2. Seal Gaps in Service Walks

Sealing up small cracks now will help prevent further damage to your property and it will look better too. To do this yourself, check out this helpful guide.

 

3. Gutter cleaning

Keep your gutters cleaned out so that water can flow freely through it unobstructed. Otherwise, if water can’t get through and freezes, this causes added problems for your roof. Cleaning them is not difficult especially since they sell a hose-end attachment specifically made to clean out gutters. If you run into any clogs, you can clear them out with a plumber’s snake tool. Lowe’s has the step-by-step directions.

 

4. Caulking the exterior of your windows

Sealing up your windows keeps the airflow out and that means you save on your energy costs. It also helps prevent moisture from getting in through those openings and causing further problems. Purchase some silicone caulking, caulking gun, and a step ladder (if you don’t have one). For a step-by-step look at how to caulk your windows check out this guide.

 

5. Anti-Tip on range

Installing an anti-tip device to your range will help ensure the little ones in your home are safe. If a child happens to grab onto the top of a range, it can topple over on him or her if you don’t have this installed. Here’s a simple video showing you how to do it yourself.

 

6. Flush water heater annually

Every year you need to flush your water heater because sediment accumulates in the bottom of it. Doing this requires that you simply build a modified shop vacuum adapter using 3 parts. Once that is constructed you can follow these next steps to flush out water heater until it runs clean.

 

7. Replace furnace filter

You should replace your furnace filter every 1-2 months to keep it running efficiently and reduce dust in the home. First, turn off your furnace. Determine where you filter is located and determine what type of filter you need. Once you have the new one, simply switch it out for the new one. There are markings on the filter to let you know which way is proper.

 

8. Shut water off for the winter

Every fall before the temperatures begin to freeze, you need to shut off the water to all the outside hose bibs and drain the lines. You don’t want your pipes to freeze and cause added expense and headaches. Here is a video explaining how and why you should do this each year.

 

9. Replace missing insulation on A/C refrigerant line

Keep adequate insulation on your refrigerant lines to reduce condensation on the lines and save energy. If the insulation on your lines is missing or rotting, then it’s time to add some new. Foam insulation can only be purchased at a refrigeration supply house or you can check online. Make sure you have the proper measurements before purchasing your insulation. There’s more information here about measuring and installing the insulation.

 

10. Change batteries in smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors

It’s something that is simple to do but easy to forget. Changing the batteries to your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors can save lives. If you’re not quite sure how to remove the devices so that batteries can be installed, check out this link for assistance.

 

For more information about DIY projects for your home or common home inspection issues, contact us today!