August – Home Maintenance Tips
Check for Leaks
Check for leaks around toilets and sinks, one thing a home inspector, Robert Krecak, from Cellar to Chimney Home Inspection Services LLC taught us was to look at the tile around the base of the toilet (for example if you see any discoloration or any cracking in the grout, it may be signs of a leak) If it budges, you may need to tighten the bolts on the floor-(but careful not too tight so as to not crack the porcelain on the toilet) or change the wax ring.
Monitor all of your water sources, this can be as simple as moving your cleaning supplies out of the cabinet and looking for any signs of a leak, doing this can be time-consuming but can save you a large hassle in the future. You can take it as an opportunity to organize under your cabinets ensuring your cleaning supplys are right where you need them!
One thing we saw online was “I spy DIY” is using these handy alarms to notifying her of any leaks since she and her husband have a few fabulous AIRBNB in BayView, WI they use this trick to ensure their property’s don’t have any leaks they might not be aware of. This type of technology might be a nice option for a second home or even your primary residence to try and to catch any leaks early to keep you prepared for the worst-case scenario. Click here to see an option under $30
Also, Flume Water looks like a nice tool to help you mitigate any future risk of leaks. Click here to learn more.
Clean out the Garage
Schedule a weekend to clean out the garage! Invest in some great storage.
Tip 1: Get Some Help
Sometimes you can have some pretty heavy stuff stored in your garage, it may not be a bad idea to invite some strong friends over for some good food and a garage party. Make sure to invite your friends with Trucks and SUV’s this will help for trips to Good Will and the dump. Enlist their services for help cleaning out the garage or and then thank them for their help with some good food and a few cocktails!
Tip 2: De-Clutter
Harness your inner Marie Kondo, get rid of the items that no longer serve you or your family.
Don’t forget when you purging some items, habitat for humanity has stores located all around Wisconsin Check out the resource here. You can schedule a pickup or find location areas. (P.S. EXIT is a major donor to habitat for humanity) This cause is very important to us!
Clean or replace showerheads
Ensure a proper Grade
Check the grade around your home, make sure the pitch is away from your home if not make sure to bring in some soil and bring the grade up and slopes away from the home. Check out this video for more information.
Clean Out The Fridge
Make some time to give your fridge a deep clean, start with making sure you have counter space to move items while you clean maybe bring a large cooler inside for items that need to stay cold. Also, get your cleaning supply ready to go! We always purchase some baking soda for the fridge. It’s an inexpensive way to keep the fridge smelling fresh!
Enjoy the warm weather as always stay safe!
Tina & Nicole
The Home Team!