Owning a home can be magical until the heater breaks and there’s no one to call to foot the bill for it. Since you’re the homeowner, it’s your responsibility to replace and fix broken features in your home.
Knowing how often features should be replaced can be tricky if you’ve never owned a home. Here are some ideas on items you may need to replace, with their average shelf life, to help you out in that department.
When to Replace Windows
Windows are a staple in everyone’s home that can often stand the test of time. However, some windows let air escape through them, resulting in poor temperature regulation and high energy costs. Single-pane windows that were widely used just 15 years ago lack proper insulation by today’s standards.
Typically, home windows should last around 15-20 years. Once this time is reached, the seals on windows begin to weaken or even fail. If you are unsure when your windows were installed, there are signs you can watch for that will reveal if your windows need to be replaced.
If your energy bills slowly rise for an unknown reason, you might have a draft coming through your windows and your AC might be trying to compensate for it. If your furniture or carpet is fading in color or you notice condensation on the inside of your windows, it might be time to fix or replace them.
Upgrading Old Garage Doors
Older garage doors not only look menacing, but they can also pose several safety and security risks. Garage doors can continue to function long after their life span, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider replacing them.
Although they may still function correctly, the risk of them breaking drastically increases when they are past their prime. Upgrading your garage door is a wise investment that will increase your safety and security and offer convenience.
Newer garage doors provide better insulation and can improve your energy efficiency. Upgrading your garage door can ease your mind and put worries of worn and damaged hardware and outdated technology off your radar.
Roof Replacement Predicaments
Knowing when you need a roof replacement is vital to homeowners. A small leak reported to the wrong contractor can have you emptying your bank account for no reason. Ensuring your roof has reached the end of its life before you shell out cash for a whole roof replacement is essential.
A leak could just mean you require minor repairs. Roof replacements are needed when your roof has reached its absolute limits. If your roof endured a strong storm that caused some damage, have a reputable contractor come and inspect your roof. Your roof should last for up to 30 years based on its warranty, as long as it is installed correctly.
If your roof begins to fail before its time and hasn’t been in the path of extreme weather, there’s a chance it either wasn’t properly installed or there wasn’t enough attic ventilation, resulting in trapped heat that will shorten the life of your roof.
Getting New Appliances
Appliances are another investment homeowners need to plan for. Ensure you keep receipts when purchasing oversized items like refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers. This can ensure your appliance is protected and its warranties are honored. Most appliances should last for at least 10 years, sometimes longer, depending on the quality of your appliance and how often it is used.
Extended warranties are available for most appliances that can ease your mind and mitigate the risk of buying a new one after the standard contract has ended. Whether you extend the warranty on your new appliance is your call.
Refrigerators have the highest chance of developing problems within the first five years after purchasing. Refrigerators are used constantly, increasing their chances of malfunction. Since repair bills can be costly, extended warranties are sometimes worth the expense.
Schedule For Replacing Home Features
Some home features are essential to a well-functioning home. Garage doors that are old and easily opened can cause you to feel unsafe. Broken appliances could result in financial loss from food spoilage or leaks. Faulty roofs can cause even more severe damage to the interior of your home.
Knowing when to replace these home features could save you so much time and money in the long run.
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