It’s not until you own a home of your own that you truly understand just how much work one is. Home maintenance isn’t just a matter of cutting the grass every so often and completing your weekly cleaning chores. When you had a home inspection done of your new home, the inspector may have given you a list of maintenance projects that need to be addressed. These aren’t items that would break a deal, just issues that should be tended to in order to avoid more costly repairs down the road. Some are projects that can wait, but others should not be ignored or procrastinated on.

Here are a few home repairs that you’ll want to look out for to avoid potential problems:

Roof and eavestroughs: Your roof and eavestrough’s main function is to keep the elements, namely water, out of your home. If you have cracked, curling or missing shingles, have them replaced immediately. Be sure your eavestroughs are clear of debris and properly affixed to your home. Siding is also susceptible to leaks, especially where it meets windows and doors. Look for fungus growing out of siding, a sign that moisture is beneath.

Leaks: Leaks, no matter how small, will not go away on their own. Things like leaky faucets, running toilets and other small plumbing issues will just get worse with time and will cost you a fortune on your water bill. Checking your house for mold and mildew is one of the most important things you can do in your home’s upkeep because it also affects your family’s health. A musty smell, dank air, and family members with chronic runny noses are warning signs. Be sure to check under carpets and around windows for visible mold or mildew. All of these things are red flags that you have a problem with leaking water and the damage could be severe.

Cracks in the foundation: Again, it’s water that is the enemy. Even the smallest crack can allow water to seep into your basement. Use a ruler to measure the crack.  If it is wider than 3/16 inch, even vertical ones, it can be a problem. Mark smaller cracks with tape and keep track of their progress. You can likely fix a smaller crack yourself but larger ones will need to be tended to by a professional.

Even if you have lived in your home for years, take the time to inspect these areas and make any necessary repairs.