It’s that time of year again for homeowners in Chevy Chase, Bethesda and DC! Regularly maintaining your home prevents headaches down the road. Even small details, once neglected, can add up to a big expense! Here are a few areas that are important to the preservation and value of your Metro DC home.
Defend Your DC Home Against Moisture
Check the ventilation. Spring can be wet, and a build-up of moisture can peel paint, cause mold and ruin flooring, carpets and fixtures. At the start of the season, check your kitchen and bath ventilation fans, and consider installing dehumidifiers wherever there is excess moisture.
Prevent water damage. April showers can mean excess water! If you have a sump pump, check it by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit and monitoring the response. Check all indoor and outdoor faucets.
Turn on your garden hose. If there is a sudden leak inside your home, you may have had a frozen pipe that cracked over the winter and needs to be replaced.
Check out basements and crawl spaces, too, to make sure they aren’t prone to seepage. Homes can settle and subtly change over the years, and erosion may create problems over time.
Keep Your DC Home Weatherized and Efficient
Service Your Central Air. Spring is the perfect time to service your air conditioner. Replace your air filters at the start warm weather, and replace the filters every 90 days of use.
Insulate. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, as much as 40% of your home’s energy loss can be blamed on shoddy insulation. By checking for drafts around your home, and filling in any gaps or cracks with a sealant, you can significantly reduce your energy bills.
Upgrade your hot water heater. The lifespan of a water heater can vary, but models 15 years old should be replaced with a new, more energy-efficient model. Look for energy-star rated water heaters.
If you need help with home repair issues, see our list of Preferred Service Providers!
Get Expert Advice for Chevy Chase, Bethesda and DC Real Estate!
If you are buying or selling a home in the DC Metro area, give yourself the advantages of working with local real estate experts who have a proven track record of success!
When you need information about DC, Bethesda or Chevy Chase market conditions, or help with your DC Metro home searches, we’ll be here for you! Contact us for professional guidance you can trust!
Melinda Estridge
The Estridge Group-Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.
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