Here’s the truth: owning a home comes with ongoing costs, and being prepared for them keeps you financially secure and your home in tip-top shape. This post dives into the 10 most common home maintenance costs in the US – helping you understand what to expect financially when it comes to home upkeep, budget effectively for these inevitable expenses, and gain insight into potential variations in costs based on your unique situation.
Read on to learn more.
- Landscaping And Lawn Care
Whether you have a sprawling green haven or a compact city courtyard, maintaining your lawn and landscaping is essential. This includes:
Mowing and edging: This regular upkeep keeps your yard looking neat and prevents weeds from taking over. Expect to spend USD$50-USD$100 per month on professional mowing, or less if you tackle it yourself.
Seasonal maintenance: Aerating, dethatching, and the like can improve your lawn’s health, especially in areas with high foot traffic or harsh weather. Cost varies depending on your lawn size, but expect to budget USD$100-USD$300 per service.
Trimming and pruning: Keeping shrubs, bushes, and trees in check enhances curb appeal and prevents them from becoming overgrown and potentially damaging your home. This can range from USD$50-USD$200 per service, depending on the size and complexity of the landscaping that you have.
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Maintenance
Your HVAC system keeps your home comfortable year-round, but it needs regular care to function efficiently. This includes:
Annual tune-up: A professional technician will inspect, clean, and adjust your system, ensuring optimal performance and energy savings. Budget USD$100-USD$200 for this annual service.
Filter replacements: Changing air filters regularly is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and preventing breakdowns. Replace filters every one to three months, with each filter costing around USD$10-USD$20.
- Roof System Gutter Cleaning
Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your roof, foundation, and even inside your home. Henceforth, regular cleaning is crucial for proper water drainage.
You may ask: how much gutter cleaning costs? Hiring professionals for gutter cleaning can cost an average of USD$162, while doing it yourself saves money but requires caution and proper equipment.
- Pest Control And Prevention
Nobody wants unwanted guests in their home! Regular pest control helps prevent infestations of insects, rodents, and other critters. It’s said that professional pest control services can cost USD$100-USD$300 per treatment, depending on the type of pest and the size of your home.
- Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detector Maintenance
Smoke detectors are life-saving devices and are essential for your family’s safety. Remember to:
- Test your smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries every year.
- Replace smoke detectors every 10 years.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors outside bedrooms and on every floor, replacing the batteries every six months and the detectors themselves every five-10 years.
- Water Heater Maintenance
Your water heater provides hot water for showers, laundry, and dishes. Regular maintenance keeps it functioning efficiently and prevents costly breakdowns. Consider scheduling a professional inspection every two years, which may cost USD$75-USD$150.
- Housekeeping And Cleaning Supplies
Maintaining a clean and healthy home requires regular cleaning. Budget for:
Cleaning supplies: Stock up on essential cleaning products like multi-surface cleaners, disinfectants, and laundry detergents. Costs can vary depending on your brand preferences, but allocate a budget of around USD$50-USD$100 per quarter.
Professional cleaning (optional): If your schedule is tight, consider hiring professional cleaning services. The cost of professional cleaning services can range from USD$50-USD$200 per cleaning, depending on the size of your home and the frequency of service.
- Plumbing System Upkeep
While hidden from sight, your home’s plumbing system plays a crucial role in everyday life. Minor issues can quickly turn into major headaches, so being proactive is key. Here are some common costs:
Drain cleaning: Clogged drains are a common annoyance. Hiring a professional for drain cleaning can cost USD$100-USD$300, depending on the severity of the clog. Nonetheless, investing in a plunger and regularly cleaning your drains can help prevent clogs in the first place.
Leak repairs: Leaky faucets, pipes, or fixtures can waste water and lead to significant water damage if left unaddressed. Repair costs vary based on the location and complexity of the leak, but expect to spend USD$100-USD$500 for minor repairs.
- Exterior Maintenance
Maintaining your home’s exterior not only enhances curb appeal but also protects your investment. This could involve:
Painting: Depending on your home’s size and material, painting the exterior can cost USD$2,000-USD$5,000, or even more for high-end finishes or complex architectural details.
Roof maintenance: Regular inspections and minor repairs can prevent major issues down the road. Budget USD$100-USD$200 for annual inspections and expect to spend USD$3,000-USD$8,000 for a roof replacement, depending on the size and material.
Power washing: This can remove dirt, grime, and mildew from your siding and walkways, maintaining a fresh look. The cost of power washing? Hiring professionals can cost USD$100-USD$300, or you can tackle it yourself with a rented power washer.
Also read: Instagram Captions For Interior Designs that are elegant.
- Emergency Fund For Unforeseen Repairs
Life throws curveballs, and your home is no exception. Appliances break down, unexpected repairs arise, and natural disasters can strike. Having an emergency fund helps you weather these storms financially. Experts recommend saving three to six months of your living expenses to cover unexpected home maintenance costs.
To Conclude
Owning a home comes with a multitude of joys and responsibilities. By understanding and planning for the inevitable costs of home maintenance, you can ensure your home remains a source of comfort, security, and pride for years to come. Remember, regular upkeep and preventive measures can significantly reduce the need for costly repairs down the road.
