Repairs Worth Tackling

The current economy may tempt some people to delay or even skip minor home maintenance, repairs, cleaning jobs and inspections.

However, that may be “penny-wise and pound-foolish.” That few hundred dollars you save today could result in several thousand dollar expenditures next month or next year if hidden problems in your home go unnoticed and become worse.

Annual A/C Maintenance

Cost: Usually $100+ for an inspection; repairs & replacement depends on need (See special offer below)

When: Spring or fall. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) companies aren’t as busy, and you’re not in dire need of heat or air conditioning.

What you might find: Clogged drain lines / Freon leaks / bad electrical components / system running in-efficiently / poor indoor air quality (mold, mildew, fungi)

Bottom line: “Continual maintenance ensures energy efficiency, prolongs the life of the equipment, & ensures acceptable indoor air quality,” says SW FL A/C pro Gordon Durant “Investing a little now, could save you a lot later.”

Termite Inspection

Cost: Usually $100+ for an inspection; $400+ for an annual termite protection contract (See special offer below).

How often: Once a year.

When: Any time, although termites are more active in spring and early summer.

What you might find: Subterranean termites that come from the ground or flying termites. If left untreated, these bugs damage framing, trim, drywall, furniture, carpet, copper and other soft metals. Termites cause more than $5 billion in damages a year in the U.S. Most homeowners insurance does not cover repair of termite damage.

Bottom line: “All U Need Pest Control is here to inspect, detect, and protect your investment,” says Craig Carlson of All U Need Pest Control. “Our purpose is to provide you (and your clients) with peace of mind and a bug free home”

Carpet Cleaning

Cost: Usually about 50 cents per sq. ft. for hot water extraction cleaning (See special offer below).

How often: Every 12 months; more often for high-traffic areas and homes with small children, pets or smokers. Manufacturers’ warranties may require cleaning every 18 to 24 months. You can save money by focusing on regular cleanings for high-traffic areas and waiting up to two years for the entire carpet.

When: Any time. If the carpet looks dirty, you’ve waited too long because some soil can’t be removed with vacuuming. This soil will bind to your carpet and dull the texture, shortening the life of the carpet. Your home also will be healthier with pollen, bacteria, insecticides and dirt removed. Potential savings: Extending the life of your carpet. Replacing 1,000 square feet of medium-grade carpet, including padding and installation, costs about $3,000.

Bottom line: “Make your floors look better and last longer,” says John Senes of Admiral Carpet Cleaning. “we do tile, grout, & upholstery too.”

Power Washing & Sealing a Wood Deck

Cost: Approx $100-$300 for a 200-square-foot deck, more for a larger deck. How often: Every one to three years, depending on the amount of traffic, moss and mold.

When: Any time in sunny weather.

Bottom line: Power washing gets rid of stains, algae, mold, mildew, fungi, and moss. Algae and mold can make your deck slippery and dangerous. Wood soaks up rain like a sponge, expands and then shrinks, if you let it go, your deck will warp, nails will pop out and the deck won’t last as long. Besides making it look better, sealing your deck after it is cleaned makes the water bead up and roll off, helping prevent water damage. A properly cleaned and sealed wood deck can last 20 to 30 years.