Being one of the most expensive of investments, it is ideal that you maintain it properly and that means that you should know when to carry out the repairs yourself, or DIY, and when to call in the professionals to handle the damage with expertise. While it is easy to handle minor fixes, and it can be done with the help of a little research and some DIY efforts, there may arise other major issues that will require you to provide immediate attention and professional handling. Such issues, if ignored, can lead to major expenses later on when they grow and build into extensive damage that might pose a safety hazard.
In the following guide, we will discuss the complete aspects of the most common small home repairs that one should never ignore, when should they be tackled by one’s own efforts, and when to call in the professional help. Moving ahead, we will also discuss in detail how getting even the least expensive home warranty will help you to cover any unexpected costs and make the maintenance of your home more manageable.
Being a very common problem, you will often notice that one or two faucets in your home are dripping, or there can be a minor leakage in the plumbing system. Now this may not seem to be such a big deal, but it actually is. In case it is left unattended, it can cause several major problems as listed below:
Increased water bills: Although it may seem like a little wastage, but even a single leaking faucet can lead to the wastage of a lot of water in a year, so increasing your expenses.
Mold growth and water damage: If there is persistent moisture, the environment may grow suitable for the growth of mold and even pose a risk to both you and your home’s health. In case you notice any musty odors, or dark spots on the ceilings and walls, these are the signs you have mold in your house.
Structural weakening: As water seeps into and through the walls, ceilings, and floors, it can gradually damage the structural integrity of your house.
If you notice minor leaks, they can be easily fixed through DIY solutions like using a plumber’s tape or sealant and replacing the washers. But when you notice more complex damage, like broken pipes and faucets, damp walls, excessive water loss, and more, it is ideal to call for professional help in order to prevent any further damage. Having a warranty, even the least expensive home warranty plan, will help cover any plumbing repairs, that can save you from unexpected costs.
The biggest and most hazardous problems faced by homeowners are electrical issues. Some of the warning signs that you should look for are:
Flickering lights or frequent power surges
Outlets that don’t work or spark when in use
Circuit breakers tripping frequently
Burning smells or discoloration around outlets
Ignoring these problems can lead to issues that are so serious that they can even be life-threatening. The consequences of unattended electrical damage can be electrical fires and damage to appliances.
It is essential to know what issues you can deal with on your own and which problems will require the intervention of a skilled technician. When it comes to the simpler tasks of changing a lightbulb or resetting a breaker, these can be taken care of by any individual. On the other hand, any task that involves handling complex wiring or major appliance systems should be handed over to a certified and experienced electrician. Being complicated and hazardous, it should ideally be handled by an expert. Some of the least expensive home warranty plans are also inclusive of electrical repair coverage, making it a cost-effective solution.
The roof is one of the most important elements of your house and lies in an essentially critical area of your home. Some of the most widely faced issues with the roof are:
Missing or damaged shingles
Leaks or water stains on ceilings, which are signs of water damage on ceiling
Sagging or uneven sections
Neglecting these signs or even minor roof issues can cause not just excessive water damage but increased energy costs and also lead to damaging the structure that will call for expensive repairs in the future.
Make sure that you regularly inspect the roof, as it is important to check and ascertain the damage. Minor repairs, like replacing any missing shingle, can be easily carried out through regular DIY efforts. But if you notice any major damage or extensive leaks in the roof, it will require a professional intervention. Although the repairs to the roof can be expensive, investing in even the least expensive home warranty can ensure you offset repair costs and protect your investment.
The HVAC system, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, is responsible for keeping your home comfortable throughout the year. Ignoring minor issues can lead to:
Higher energy bills
Uneven heating or cooling
Complete system failure during extreme weather
Make sure to schedule routine maintenance every 1-3 months. The maintenance includes changing of the air filters in every visit in case it is required, cleaning of the vents and clearing of the outdoor units of any debris. Although you may assume that it is fairly easy to carry out these tasks, however, professional servicing is essential so that the servicing can be carried out effectively to maintain long-term efficiency and prevent costly breakdowns. Home warranty plans and even the least expensive home warranty plans offer coverage for the HVAC repairs, helping to manage the expenses on repairs.
The foundation holds the entire structure of your house, and if there is any damage in the foundation it can lead to the damage of your house. Even minor cracks can cause very serious issues, including:
Water intrusion and flooding
Compromised structural stability
Decreased property value
If you see small cracks, you can repair them by sealing them with epoxy or concrete fillers as part of a small home repairs approach. However, this approach will not be as successful in case of serious damages like large cracks or shifting foundations, you will be required to hire professional help for repair and assessment of these damages. But, make sure to know that the repair of foundational issues is not included in most home warranties, instead, you might get cover for the repair of damage caused due to issues with the foundation such as plumbing or HVAC issues.
Now that we have covered all the major issues that a homeowner can face, what comes next is to ensure that a regular maintenance schedule is established that includes:
Checking for leaks and water damage monthly
Inspecting electrical systems and outlets regularly
Cleaning gutters and checking the roof after storms for signs of water damage on ceiling
Servicing HVAC systems seasonally
Performing routine small home repairs
Now, for those who are new homeowners, this task of maintaining a home can seem to be overwhelming, but it can become relatively simpler with the help of a checklist. A simple checklist should include:
Inspecting the HVAC system
Checking plumbing and insulation
Reviewing the electrical panel
Examining the roof for damage and signs of water damage on ceiling
Creating a home maintenance schedule
Even routine and diligent maintenance schedules can lead to breakdown; unexpected breakdowns are almost unavoidable. But by having even the least expensive home warranty as an investment towards your home, you will get coverage for essential systems and appliances, which reduces financial stress and makes sure that repairs are taken care of by reliable professionals.
Affordability: A least expensive home warranty will seem like a small investment in comparison to the cost of major repairs that you may have to bear.
Peace of Mind: When you know that you have coverage for the house and its essential elements it helps you to focus and manage your home in a better way.
Access to Professionals: Least expensive home warranty plans while being cheap also help you have decent facilities like providing you a connection with qualified professionals, so that you are saved from the hassle of searching expert professional yourself.
Staying proactive with small home repairs can prevent costly fixes and keep your home in excellent condition. By addressing essential repairs promptly, following a structured maintenance schedule, and considering a least expensive home warranty, homeowners can protect their investment and enjoy peace of mind for years to come.
