At the 15 year mark there are several maintenance tasks that might be required that could put a hefty dent in your budget — but that’s why you’ve been saving money toward the cause each year! These components may need replacement to keep your house safe and energy efficient:
- Check the roofing material. The life expectancy of a roof varies based on the type of materials. Many asphalt shingle roofs last from 20 to 30 years, but some higher quality materials can protect your home much longer. Check out this Consumer Reports buying guide for handy tips.
- Replace exterior decks. Your local weather and how often sealant is applied can determine how long your home’s wooden deck remains safe and structurally sound. The average lifespan of a wooden deck is considered to be about 20 years. Some might look into home equity loans for this kind of home improvement.
- Replace kitchen and bathroom faucets. It may be time to replace your kitchen and bath faucets when they’re about 15 years old. A handy homeowner should be able to handle the project if they have the right tools.
- Install new HVAC units. The life expectancy of your home’s HVAC system components is largely determined by how they’re maintained. However, even units that have been properly serviced begin wearing out when they’re 15 to 20 years old — in some cases even sooner. New units should always be installed by a qualified professional. The Department of Energy can help you research the purchase of a new system.
Keeping Your Home Safe and Secure for a Lifetime
If you’re planning to live in your home for a very long time, this homeowner’s maintenance checklist will help ensure your home is safe and secure. If you’re looking at a home renovation timeline, keeping up with these tasks in addition to making big renovations can help ensure a better resale value in the future. Either way, proper maintenance can give your home a fighting chance to stand strong for generations.
