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Owning a house that is completely maintenance-free is as good as claiming perpetual motion. However, there are plenty of ways to reduce the time and money you spend on the upkeep of your house, both inside and out. In this article, we will discuss a few tips that can help you make your house low-maintenance.
Metal Roofing
The selection of roofing material plays an important role in upgrading your house. Not many are aware that metal roofing over traditional shingles proves to be the best and most practical money-saving investment. This is mainly because metal roofs boast a lifespan of more than 50 years with little or no maintenance. Unlike most materials, they can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Composite Decking
Are you planning to cut down on maintenance costs without compromising on the luxury of outdoor living spaces? Then, you must consider composite decking for a low-maintenance deck or patio. It offers the natural look and feel of wood and also saves time and money as it resists weathering, fading, staining, and mold.
Fiber Cement Siding
Although the initial cost of fiber cement siding is higher than that of the alternatives available, it provides durability and a longer lifespan. This can prove to be a beneficial choice in the long run. Fiber cement does not require periodic maintenance, like painting or sealing, as it resists major issues like rotting, fire, and termites.
Install Seamless Gutters
Gutters are one of the most overlooked things that many homeowners do not consider while planning maintenance. However, you must consider installing seamless aluminum gutters, which make a huge difference and provide peace of mind.
As the name suggests, seamless gutters are exactly what is mentioned. Manufactured from a single piece of material, they have no seams (which provide a continuous flow of water and fewer possible points of failure). This results in less debris and easier cleanup. It also provides better protection of the roof, fascia, and soffit. The other benefits include a lower risk of basement flooding or foundation damage. During winters, it can also be helpful for icy sidewalks or damage to expensive landscaping.
Native Landscaping
Now, let’s move towards landscaping your yard. In simple language, the right choices during the initial planning can effectively reduce maintenance. While choosing plants, go for native plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. These plants require minimal attention, for example, watering, spraying pesticides, and overall care, as compared to non-native plants.
If you are unsure how to find native plants, then your best bet is to visit your local plant nursery and take guidance from them. If you wish to do your own research, then here’s a resource guide that can help you with the database of various native plant tools.
When aiming to maintain the health of these plants, an automated irrigation system can be a great option for an automated approach to lawn and garden maintenance. It can be set to water your plants during set intervals, reducing water wastage. On the other hand, plants will receive adequate hydration without any manual interventions.
Durable Finishes
For indoor spaces, it is important to consider products that are more durable and easy to clean. Ceramic tile, luxury vinyl, or laminate are the best options for flooring. These choices not only offer durability but also straightforward maintenance reduction. Also, they are less susceptible to damage compared to traditional hardwood and carpets.
For kitchen and bathroom areas, Quartz countertops are a perfect choice. Unlike granite or marble, quartz does not require sealing and resists stains, scratches, and heat. For cabinetry, you must choose materials that are easy to clean and withstand regular wear and tear.
Energy-Efficient Fixtures And Appliances
In terms of fixtures and appliances, going with energy-efficient and high-quality options can reduce your expenses for repairs and replacements. You can trust appliances with good warranties and a reputation for longevity. Energy-efficient fixtures, like LED lighting and low-flow toilets and showers, can also decrease your utility bills and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
Embrace Minimalism
Ultimately, embracing a minimalist design philosophy can significantly reduce home maintenance. Less clutter translates to fewer cleaning and maintenance tasks, enabling homeowners to focus their time and energy on essential activities.