Halloween season is upon us, and while spooky stories and haunted houses may be fun, the last thing you want is your own home turning into a real-life horror show. Ignoring small home maintenance issues can lead to big, costly problems that are far scarier than any ghost or goblin. Fortunately, TruBlue Home Service Ally is here to make sure your home stays safe, comfortable, and free from unexpected surprises. Here are some common home maintenance “horrors” and how you can prevent them—no tricks, just treats!
1. Creepy Crawly Critters: Pest Prevention
Nothing is more terrifying than unwanted pests invading your home, especially as the cooler months set in. Small cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations are an open invitation for creepy critters to come inside.
How to Prevent:
- Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and your home’s foundation with weatherstripping or caulk.
- Make sure to keep your kitchen clean and free from food scraps that could attract pests.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget about your attic and basement. These dark, damp areas are often the first places critters seek out.
2. Leaky Pipes: The Silent Home Destroyer
One of the most common (and most expensive) home maintenance issues is water damage from leaky pipes or faucets. A minor leak may not seem like a big deal at first but left unchecked, it can lead to mold growth, rot, and serious structural damage.
How to Prevent:
- Regularly check under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances for signs of leaks.
- Replace worn-out washers and seals in faucets and showers.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on your water bill—if you notice a sudden spike, there might be a leak hiding somewhere in your home.
3. Gutter Nightmares: The Clogged and Overflowing Disaster
Fall leaves are beautiful, but when they clog your gutters, they can cause water to back up and damage your roof, siding, and foundation. An overflowing gutter is a surefire way to turn a small problem into a big home repair horror.
How to Prevent:
- Clean your gutters at least twice a year, or more often if you have trees near your home.
- Install gutter guards to help keep debris out and minimize clogging.
Pro Tip: After heavy rain, do a quick walk-around to check that water is flowing correctly through your gutters and downspouts.
4. Drafty Windows and Doors: The Unseen Energy Drain
Nothing sends a chill down your spine like realizing your home is losing heat (and money!) through drafty windows and doors. Not only can this make your home uncomfortable, but it also increases your energy bills.
How to Prevent:
- Check for drafts by running your hand along the edges of doors and windows.
- Add weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps.
Pro Tip: Even small gaps can let in cold air, so be thorough when checking for drafts.
5. Slip-and-Fall Frights: Unsafe Walkways and Stairs
Trips and falls are no laughing matter, especially for seniors. Cracked walkways, loose railings, and poorly lit stairs can all pose serious safety hazards.
How to Prevent:
- Repair cracks in walkways and driveways before they worsen.
- Install handrails along stairways and make sure existing ones are secure.
- Add outdoor lighting to improve visibility around your home’s entryways.
- Let TruBlue conduct a free Senior Home Safety Assessment to identify any potential hazards around your home.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait for an accident to happen—be proactive in maintaining a safe and secure home environment.
6. HVAC Horror Stories: Heating System Failures
As the weather cools, the last thing you want is for your heating system to fail. Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to keeping your home warm and comfortable during the fall and winter months.
How to Prevent:
- Replace your HVAC filters every few months to ensure efficient airflow.
- Make sure vents and ducts are clean and unobstructed.
Pro Tip: An annual HVAC inspection is far cheaper than an emergency repair in the dead of winter!
Treat Your Home to Preventive Care with TruBlue
At TruBlue, we’re all about providing worry-free living, and part of that means staying on top of home maintenance before it turns into a nightmare. Our team is here to help with everything from small repairs to full home safety assessments, so you can enjoy your home without fear of unexpected horrors.
This fall, don’t let your home maintenance become a scary story. Contact us for professional handyman services and seasonal maintenance that keeps your home safe, comfortable, and efficient—no tricks, just treats!
Call us today or visit our website to schedule your next home safety check or maintenance service.