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The best thing you can do for your home is regular maintenance to keep it in optimum shape and to avoid costly repairs later. It’s a lot to keep track of, and upkeep can get expensive. BankRate.com offers these tips for getting your maintenance done without putting a huge dent in your bank account.
Keep tools organized.
Sometimes we end up buying duplicate tools because we can’t find the hammer or wrench we just know is somewhere in the garage. Save time and money by keeping your tools and workspaces organized.
Use “oops” or second-hand paint.
If you can be flexible with paint colors, you can find great deals at the hardware store in “oops” paint that was mixed incorrectly or ended up not being bought. In addition, unused or recycled paint is often available for a low cost or even free at local municipalities and waste management departments.
Buy used tools or rent.
If you’re planning on using a tool once or twice for a project, there’s no need to pay full price for it. Check yard sales and online classified sites like Craigslist to find the tool you need for a fraction of the price. Large, professional-grade tools, such as power washers or post-hole drillers, are often available for rent from hardware stores.
Save leftover materials.
We often have little pieces of hardware, such as screws or bolts, left over after a project. Organize them and save them to use down the road, and then you won’t have to buy a whole bag of screws when you only need one.
Preventive Maintenance Is Key
Expensive and time-consuming repairs are common, but can often be avoided with a few cheap and easy preventive measures: Cover pipes with inexpensive insulation to prevent freezing and bursting when temperatures drop. Clear vegetation from around your air conditioning unit to prolong its life. Check vents in the roof spaces for cracks and rips, and patch them with foil tape to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drain your water heater once a year to prevent buildup of sediment on the heating coil. Use binoculars to check for loose roof shingles and secure any with roof cement.
