There is little to compare with the experience of becoming a first-time homeowner.
Not only is it a very mature and carefully thought out decision, it opens up a whole world of opportunities. Suddenly, you’re no longer subject to fussy landlords and their rigid renting rules. You are the master of your property and you can decorate, renovate, and transform it in any way that you like.
It is a big step though and it comes with a lot of responsibility.
If you’re going to be the boss, you’ve got to carry out all of those little tasks and duties which you once took for granted, because they weren’t yours to worry about. The good news is that, in time, taking care of your new home will become a breeze. All you’ve got to do is show it a little tender loving care and it will reward you for many years to come.
This guide to some of the most important duties of a homeowner will help you learn about common maintenance and repairs.
Getting Rid of Pests
Mice and rats can be a particularly nasty problem, but the how to get rid of rates guide by Dawson’s Australia offers some great tips. The important thing is not to provide any easily accessible food. Keep opened bags in airtight containers and place traps close to exit routes.
At some point, all properties encounter unwanted guests, whether they’re ants, flies, wasps, termites, or mice. It is almost impossible to keep pests out entirely, but most won’t hang around for long if you don’t provide food and shelter.
Cleaning the Gutters
Keeping the gutters clear is highly recommended because it reduces the risk of problems arising from water damage. If you get a blockage and water starts to spill up and around it, it could eventually spill over and pool around the foundations.
After enough time, this might begin to seep into the ground and affect the basement area. Pests are also particularly fond of dark, wet conditions, so organic blockages are their ideal home. Get up on a ladder and carefully remove the debris with a blower or garden vac.
Unclogging the Drain
On the inside, you’ve got the drain leading away from the sink and this can cause big problems too if it is blocked. Clogged kitchen drains (and toilets) pose a risk of flooding, so they should be dealt with right away. Use a plunger to try and dislodge the blocked materials.
You can also use an auger, which is a slightly more sophisticated tool. If the bowl is at risk of overflowing as you work, switch off the water supply valve and manually empty out as much liquid as possible. If this doesn’t work, you may have to call a plumber.
Hanging Sturdy Shelves
There will come a time when you want to hang or build shelves in your new home. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to do. You need to install the studs first (taking care to avoid pipes and electrical wiring inside the wall). The studs form a supportive base, especially for freestanding shelves.
Don’t forget to use a spirit level to check that the studs and shelves are going to sit straight. You can pick up a level for just a few dollars at any good hardware store. Or, you can now download apps which provide a digital spirit guide.
Why Your Home Should Be Your Little Kingdom
The greatest part of being a homeowner can also be one of the most frustrating.When you’re completely independent and responsible for everything, it means doing the tough stuff too. Fortunately, clogged drains, pests, and DIY disasters are all minor hiccups, which every first-time owner has to handle. Whether you ask a friend for help or hire the service of a professional, you’ve got this covered.
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