These days, safety and security are in the forefront of people’s minds, and there’s no better time for improving your home’s safety than now. Minimize the risk to your home by checking out this list of simple, easy, and important maintenance tips and improvements in home security. Protecting your property and keeping your family safe with these seven suggestions will help put your mind at ease both now and in the future.
1. Add a home security system.
A home without a security system is three times more likely to be broken into than one with a built-in camera system in place. In fact, over two million home invasions are reported every year in America—but your house doesn’t have to be one of them. Consider installing a system if you don’ have one. And if you had a system installed years ago, it may be time for an upgrade. Today’s home security systems take advantage of technological advancements, including security apps that make it easy to monitor your home from your phone while you’re away.
2. Inspect for erosion or structural damage.
Any erosion around your house or structural damage that has occurred due to weather or wear and tear should be addressed quickly. Why? Because they typically get worse over time. If these problems aren’t swiftly addressed, they can result in costly repairs and sometimes permanent damage. If you have cracks in walls or ceilings, or other evidence that your home’s structure may be at risk, it’s time to have a professional inspect your foundation. And look at the soil around your home too. Erosion can be remedied with the addition of concrete pavers or gravel beds for reinforcement.
3. Check your roof.
It’s a good idea to inspect your roof once a year for signs of damage or sagging. Leaves, tree branches, and the buildup of moss can all cause expensive leaks and water damage. If your roof’s shingles are missing, loose, cracked, or otherwise in need of fixing, a bundle of shingles can be purchased at any of the home improvement stores. Roofing caulk can be very affordable and easily applied to shore up any missing or damaged shingles. If you have no problem getting on your roof, consider doing it with appropriate safety precautions, on a sunny day. Otherwise, find a reputable home repair company to make the necessary repairs.
4. Eliminate household hazards.
According to the Home Safety Council, falling is the leading cause of unintentional home injury deaths. Falls can also lead to broken bones and other complications for both young and old. But you can make your home safer for everyone by identifying and fixing areas where trips and falls are likely to happen. Loose rugs, poorly lit staircases, exposed extension cords, and excessive floor clutter are all easily addressed. Be sure to take your home’s exterior into account as well, fixing cracked walkways, loose steps, uneven pavement, and holes in your lawn.
5. Clean your gutters.
Excess water gathering around your home due to clogged gutters can put your home’s foundation at risk. Water leaks can seep into basements and crawlspaces and erode the earth below. This can lead to repair costs in the tens of thousands of dollars. To help your roof’s drainage system work properly, regularly remove leaves, dirt, and other debris that have accumulated every six weeks or so. Gutter sealants are available at most home improvement stores if you ever find a leak in any part of your home’s gutters or downspouts.
6. Update your smoke alarms.
Home fires happen more often than you might think. Be prepared by checking your smoke alarms once a month for weak batteries. Give your smoke alarms a good cleaning once a year because dust and other particles can get inside them and cause faulty wire connections. If your smoke alarms are old, consider replacing them.
7. Ensure your carbon monoxide detector works properly.
Carbon monoxide is impossible to identify without a detector. To protect your family from CO poisoning, a detector on each floor of your home is recommended, preferably near bedrooms. Visit the appropriate websites to make sure your home has the adequate protection and meets local municipality standards.
Start your home improvements today.
Your home and family’s safety is important to you—and to us. To learn more about the home repair services offered by our responsive, professional staff, contact John McCarter Construction today at (248) 446-1750 for a free consultation.
