If you buy a house, it’s sure to be one of the biggest financial investments you ever make. According to USA Today, housing is among the biggest expenses Americans have. This doesn’t just include costs like a mortgage, but also maintenance fees. Given the amount of time and money you put into your home, you want to protect it from damage that can depreciate its value.
Weather-related issues, from flooding to wind and even a simple winter freeze, can be a major cause of such damage – and are of even greater concern if you’re living in a tiny home. So today, HotEdge has some tips to help you safeguard your house and avoid hefty repair costs.
Beware of Flood Susceptibility
Living in a low-lying area or near a creek or river may mean that your home is susceptible to flooding. You’ll likely need flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program, however that only kicks in once the water gets into your home. It’s wise to take steps to mitigate potential flood damage before the water rises. If you operate a home-based business, your business insurance policy can cover losses to your business-related property, however your policy may have exceptions.
Address Storm-Related Roof Repairs
Storms can wreak havoc on your roof, putting stress on shingles and gutters. If you notice signs of damage after inclement weather, such as a missing shingle, bring in a reputable roofing contractor to conduct a thorough roof inspection and make repairs if anything has gone awry. Small repairs here and there can help maintain the integrity and longevity of your roof, and will be cheaper than a full replacement.
If you expect to sell your tiny home at some point, a well-kept roof is especially important because you’ll be able to sell your home for a higher price. On the flip side, a roof that is in disrepair is a bargaining chip for buyers, so unless you’re planning to sell as-is, consider upgrading your roof prior to listing your home.
Get Your Gutters Cleaned Regularly
Gutters collect runoff water from your roof and siphon it to the ground. When gutters are clogged — because of fallen leaves or other debris, for instance — water builds up. This can result in water simply running over the gutter edge and down the sides of the house, causing paint to peel prematurely. In winter, meanwhile, water buildup in gutters may freeze and add so much weight that the gutters detach and require replacing, or it can lead to ice dams. Keeping gutters clean can go a long way toward preventing problems during bad weather.
Make Sure Your Fire Safety Equipment is Up-to-Date
According to the National Fire Protection Association, home structure fires cost some $6.5 billion in direct property damage every year. Such an event results in financial loss and can additionally mean losing sentimental possessions like books, art, or family photos. Protect yourself by installing appropriate fire safety devices in your home, such as a smoke detector and fire extinguisher.
Install Insulation to Avoid Frozen Pipes
Pipes carry water throughout your home. When water in pipes freezes, it expands and may cause them to crack or even burst. This means you will not only have to repair or replace the pipes, but may also face costly water damage to carpets, walls, furniture, and precious possessions. To prevent this, keep your interiors heated to at least above freezing, even if you aren’t at home.
The Rental Option
With all the costs and responsibility that come with owning a home, it’s no wonder that many people prefer to rent. If you’re considering likewise, you should definitely consider the pros and cons, then make a decision that’s right for you. Especially if you have a stressful job, maintaining a home might be a little more than you can handle right now. Luckily, there are plenty of great rental homes out there, including over 200 available in Denver alone! Renting can be a great way to help you get ready for the responsibilities that come with owning a home, as well.
Conclusion
Follow the above tips to protect your home from weather-related catastrophes that will cost you money. This spares you maintenance costs and helps preserve the property’s value. If you live in an area with a competitive real estate market, this can make all the difference if you eventually try to sell. In any case, when it comes to an investment as large as a house, it’s wise to protect it.
HotEdge provides solutions that prevent ice dams and icicles from forming. Using a combination of different products, we’re able to cost-effectively prevent snow melt water from re-freezing on your roof to ensure ice dams and icicles do not have the opportunity to develop. Call (303) 578-4992.
