How to Prolong the Life of Your House

Have you ever gone past an old house, a very old house (one that is clearly at least 100 years old), and think “wow, I wonder how that house is still standing”? While a lot of American homes aren’t necessarily known for their longevity compared to the centuries-old houses scattered throughout the European continent, you can count on having your home last for ages. It’s not so much that the construction materials are bad; it’s really about utilizing practices that can make a home last longer. So, when it comes to your house, here is everything you need to know so you can prolong your life!

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Repair Structural Issues

Unfortunately, structural issues are going to happen about every 10 to 15 years for a house. It’s a shame, but no matter what quality of materials you use, it’s going to be a harsh reality. Structural issues such as cracks, bulging brickwork, rust stains, and rainwater leaks may seem minor in terms of aesthetics but can cause significant damage to your house’s structural integrity. Taking these issues into account and rectifying them in time can save you a lot of money on future rectification work.

While structural issues are most common in older homes, they can also be caused by faulty building practices in new constructions. Regardless of the type of structure, these issues should be taken seriously and addressed right away to protect the safety and stability of your home.

Repair Cracks in Your Foundation

A lot of homeowners don’t seem to know this, but your foundation can destroy your house just as much as it can bring your home to life. Have you ever noticed some houses are lopsided? That’s a bad sign; that’s actually a very bad sign! Keeping track of small foundation cracks and repairing them as soon as possible is one of the best ways to prolong the life of your house. However, knowing when to take serious foundation problems seriously and get professional help if necessary is important. When it comes to your foundation, you’re better off letting the professionals take control of this.

Replace Old Appliances

Regardless of how high-tech and fancy an appliance is, it has a finite lifespan. Fridges and electric stoves should last about 13 years while washing machines, dishwashers, and dryers can function well for a decade. Replacing old appliances with new, energy-efficient ones can help save energy costs and positively impact the environment. 

But that’s not all! You also have to consider that older appliances can be more dangerous. Specifically, they can be a fire hazard. The last thing you need is to have faulty outlets due to potential fires from old appliances. Plus, older appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines are more likely to leak, which can also cause water damage to the house.

Reinsulate Your House

Insulation does a lot more for your home than you may realize. For starters, every 15 to 20 years, you’ll need to have new insulation installed in your house. While this keeps your house warm, this actually does a lot more. Thanks to the insulation, the chances of mold getting in your home are going to be low. How so? Well, thanks to the insulation, you’re going to be limited on how much moisture gets into your home. 

If you’ve ever been in a shed during wintertime, you’ve probably noticed the mold that builds up on the walls. Since sheds lack insulation, this is what usually happens. So, when was the last time you put new insulation in your home?

Consider Getting a New Roof and Siding

Roofs are among the most long-lasting parts of any home. They can last for up to 70 years, depending on the material. A roof can be expensive, and you want to try to get as many years out of it as possible before you need to replace it. Aside from that, it’s also important to inspect your roof for damage. If you notice any missing shingles, cracked shingles, or curled shingles, have it repaired as soon as possible?

In general, if you have a bad roof or even bad or faulty siding, it’s just going to make your home worse. You’re going to have severe damage, which can create mold and ruin the structural integrity of your home. Also, faulty roofs and siding will create an issue with pests.

Keep an Eye On Your Gutters

The gutters don’t seem like a major deal, but this needs to be taken seriously too! Cleaning your gutters and downspouts regularly (at least twice a year) is important in keeping your home safe. This will help protect your roof and siding from rot and the foundation of your home from flooding and water damage. If your gutters aren’t clean, this will cause built-up water, which will then get onto your roof and into your house siding. This can also help with sewer issues if your gutters are attached to them.

Watch Out for the Fireplace

A fireplace is one of the most lavish parts of the home, especially when it comes to the living room. However, if you live in an older house, you need to especially watch out for the fireplace. Not only that but the chimney too. This not only needs to be cleaned regularly, but you have to be cautious as this can be a major fire hazard for your house too.

Utilize Smart Home Technology

It sounds strange, but using smart home technology can be a great way to prolong the life of your house. Just think about it, there are a number of sensors available nowadays, from smoke detectors, sprinklers, water leak sensors, and the list goes on and on. You’ll be alert when there are issues with your home so these can be fixed immediately.

In the end, knowing there are ways to take care of your home is vital. Your home has the ability to live on for more than just a few decades, but it does take dedication. But in the end, it’s all going to be worth it for your lovely home!