Keeping your home in good working order helps prevent more significant problems down the road. Moisture problems, airflow leaks, and faulty appliances can make living there a hassle if you don’t fix issues as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, knowing what’s most important isn’t so straightforward. Read on to discover some often overlooked yet essential maintenance tasks for your home.

1. Clean the Gutters

Your gutters help channel the flow of water off the roof and away from your home’s foundations. If they get too full of leaves, dirt, and other debris, they won’t be able to function correctly. Therefore, homeowners should clean their gutters at least twice a year, in the fall and spring, to ensure they’re free from buildup.

Also, make sure you clean your gutters before the heavy rains come. Waiting until after will make it more difficult and reduce your installation’s effectiveness. You can install gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that gets into them and save yourself some time, but you’ll still need to clean them out regularly.

2. Give the Siding Some TLC

Siding is another essential home feature that requires regular maintenance. It protects the home from bad weather and pest infestations. If your siding gets holes, it can lead to air leaks or critters getting into the space and making nests. It’s also a barrier against moisture, which can result in the growth of mold and mildew.

You should inspect your home’s siding every six months or so. Look closely for broken materials, bends, and loose pieces. Ensuring all your window and door joints are covered and adequately sealed will improve efficiency. Use these tips for preserving your home’s exterior siding to limit the need for replacements.

3. Maintain Your Appliances

Your home wouldn’t be very convenient without standard appliances. Your stove, fridge, washer, dryer, and HVAC system all provide essential services that make life much easier. If they break down, you’ll have to fix them or purchase new ones.

Regularly checking each appliance to ensure it’s functioning correctly will help you avoid higher costs down the road. Consult your owner’s manual to get an idea of what’s necessary to keep them clean and in good working order. You can hire a repair technician to help with ongoing maintenance tasks if necessary.

4. Keep Your Home Functional

Each part of your home plays an important role in protecting you and your assets. The gutters, siding, and indoor appliances are all essential for modern life. Learning a few essential maintenance tasks for your home will make it easier to keep up with ongoing wear and tear.