The efforts you put into repairing and maintaining your home have a huge effect on how well it ages. A well-maintained home is typically safer and more valuable than a home that’s been neglected. The increasingly competitive housing market is causing people to stay in homes much longer than they generally used to, making it more important than ever to do what you can to prolong to life of your house. Try the following tips for preserving your home:

1. Inspect regularly: Set a calendar reminder at least twice a year to inspect your home for any areas that need attention. Walk around each room and check for leaks, visible wear and tear, etc. Certain areas may need an annual inspection/cleaning from a certified professional, such as your chimney, while other areas can go ten or more years without attention, such as your driveway or roof. However, things can go wrong at any time and keeping a watchful eye year-round can alert you to minor problems before they grow bigger.
2. Make repairs ASAP: If you find minor damages during an inspection, it’s important that you take care of repairs quickly. Unattended problems can easily turn into bigger, more expensive problems as time passes. Many contractors believe that for every $1 spent on maintenance, you can avoid up to $100 in repairs. Not to mention, keeping your home in top shape will ensure that it’s equipped to withstand the elements.
3. Buy quality materials: Always invest in quality materials when purchasing items to repair your home. You get what you pay for, and cheap products tend to fail quickly, resulting in the need to spend more money on replacements and compromising the integrity of your home. Buying well-built materials will save you money in the long run and can help prolong the life of your house.
4. Apply a new coat of paint: A new coat of paint can brighten a home and can also extend the life of a home by up to ten years. How? Applying fresh paint protects your walls from dirt, contaminants, rust formation, odors and other deterioration. As you prep your walls and trim for painting, take the time to inspect for possible damages that need repairing, such as water stains or drywall cracks.
5. Hire professionals: You can easily handle simple tasks on your own, like cleaning out the gutters. But don’t be afraid to hire professional help for larger tasks, such as re-carpeting a room or replacing drywall. Getting the job done right the first time will save you money and protect the integrity of your home.

Make your home even more secure with comprehensive coverage. Call us at 888-750-9775 for more information on Los Angeles home insurance.