Owning a home gives you plenty of security and a safe space to raise your family but it can also be a minefield when it comes to maintenance and upkeep, so anything you can do to not make things harder for yourself than they need to be is a win, right?
With that in mind, a contributor shares some very common things that, actually, no homeowner should ever do:
Skipping the Home Inspection: A Risky Gamble
Diving into homeownership without a thorough home inspection is like walking a tightrope blindfolded you’re bound to run into something eventually, and it’s probably not going to be pleasant. A home inspection can uncover hidden issues, from foundational flaws to outdated wiring, that could turn your dream home into a money pit. Consider it an investment in your peace of mind and wallet. Skipping this step might save you a bit now, but it could cost you immensely in the long run.
Overlooking Security: Leaving the Welcome Mat Out for Trouble
In the hustle and bustle of moving in and making a house a home, security can sometimes take a backseat. But leaving your home’s security as an afterthought is like leaving the welcome mat out for trouble. Investing in a good security system, changing locks when moving into a new place, and ensuring windows and doors are secure are basic steps that shouldn’t be overlooked. A little attention to security can go a long way in keeping your home and loved ones safe.
Painting Without Testing: A Spectrum of Regrets
Embarking on a painting spree without testing colors first is a surefire way to end up with walls that look more like a science experiment gone wrong than the chic palette you envisioned. Those tiny paint chips at the store can be deceptive. Invest in sample pots, paint small sections of your wall, and observe how the colors look at different times of the day. This simple step can save you from living in a color you loathe until you muster the energy to repaint.
Pouring Grease Down the Sink: A Slippery Slope to Disaster
Pouring grease down the sink, – we’ve all done it at least once, but it’s a huge no-no, and actually one of the biggest causes of home sewer damage there is. Sure, it’s liquid now, but once it cools, you’ve got yourself the plumbing equivalent of cholesterol. That grease will harden, sticking to your pipes like it’s vying for a long-term lease, eventually causing clogs that not even the most valiant plunger can combat. Instead, pour that grease into an old can and toss it in the trash. Your pipes (and future self) will thank you.
Treating Your Toilet Like a Trash Can
While we’re on the subject of plumbing, your toilet is not a garbage disposal. Flushing anything other than the essentials (you know what we mean) can lead to blockages and expensive calls to the plumber. Even those “flushable” wipes are notorious for causing backups. Stick to the basics, and your sewage system will flow as smoothly as a lazy river.
Ignoring Small Repairs: The Snowball Effect
Ever notice a tiny leak or a small crack and think, “Eh, it’ll be fine”? Spoiler alert: it won’t. Small issues have a way of turning into big problems if ignored. That leaky faucet could lead to water damage, and that minor crack could be the start of structural issues. Tackling repairs while they’re small is like catching a snowball before it starts rolling downhill – it saves you from an avalanche of trouble later on.
DIYing Everything: Know Your Limits
In the age of YouTube tutorials, it’s tempting to crown yourself king or queen of DIY. And while it’s great to tackle some projects, know your limits. Electrical work, major plumbing, and structural changes often require a professional touch. There’s a fine line between “I saved so much money doing it myself” and “I spent so much more fixing my DIY disaster.” Sometimes, the true DIY mastery is knowing when to hire a pro.
Neglecting Home Maintenance: A Recipe for Regret
Home maintenance is like going to the dentist; it might not be your idea of fun, but it’s necessary. Neglecting routine tasks like cleaning gutters, servicing your HVAC system, and checking your roof can lead to preventable issues. Think of home maintenance as self-care for your house. Regular check-ups keep it healthy and save you money in the long run.
Homeowners can be their own worst enemy at times, but now you know what not to do, that doesn’t have to be you!