7 Things That Should Be Replaced in Your Home Every Decade
Investing in a home or any type of real estate is a great way to boost your returns, especially if you’re interested in long-term investments. If you’re a homeowner, however, you will need to maintain certain aspects of your property, especially as the decades pass. Knowing what appliances, fixtures, or areas of the home should be inspected or replaced after each decade can help you better prepare financially before the time comes.
1. Plumbing and Drain Pipes
While in most cases, drain pipes may not need to be replaced until 40 years have passed, according to House Logic, you should still have your plumbing and drains inspected before moving into any new home. Because it is not always easy to determine the age of plumbing from the outset, a complete sewer line inspection may be necessary to determine when you will require the money to replace your drain pipes and any plumbing fixtures that may also be outdated in your new residence. Working with a local plumber will provide you with the guidance you need to determine if it is time to replace the drain pipes in your home or on your property.
2. Roofing
If your home’s roofing is more than 10 years old, it may be time for an inspection. Routine maintenance and roof inspections can help preserve your roof for many years. Installing a new roof after a decade can add significant insulation and protection to all areas of your home while preventing potential leaks.
3. Kitchen Appliances
Investing in new kitchen appliances can significantly reduce water and energy waste. Ultimately, new appliances can also reduce electricity bills. If your current appliances are old or outdated, it may be time to take a look at the new offerings on the market.
4. Thermostat
Adding a new thermostat to the home can help you better manage your home’s temperature. Modernized thermostats are much more reliable than outdated analog models. A new thermostat can also be programmed to manage energy more efficiently.
5. HVAC Systems
Investing in an upgraded HVAC system is another way to save on energy waste and electricity bills each month. On average, families in the United States spend approximately $2,000 each year on electricity, with more than half of that budget going towards keeping the home cooled or warmed, according to Onedesk. Investing in a new HVAC system will not only make it easier to maintain your home’s temperature year-round, but it will allow you to do so while saving on energy and costs.
6. Water Heater
Whether you’re interested in saving money when heating the water in your home or you want to live a more sustainable lifestyle, you can do so by replacing your home’s water heater, especially if it is outdated. Investing in a modern water heater is one of the fastest ways to reduce energy waste and costs each month. After you’ve upgraded your home’s water heater, consider setting it to a strict 120 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure you save as much money as possible each year, according to CNET.
7. Windows
One of the most important elements to pay attention to as a homeowner includes your home’s windows. Windows are responsible for many of the drafts and cracks that lead to a loss of energy in the home. If your home is older or if your windows are outdated, it may be time to consider investing in a more energy-efficient solution throughout the entire property.
Paying attention to all areas of your home can help significantly when it is time to make new investments, repairs, or even complete replacements. The right renovations will not only drastically increase your home’s curbside appeal, but they will also add to the overall value of your property and investment. From upgrading your windows with more energy-efficient solutions to installing a brand-new roof, there are many different remodeling projects and renovations you will need to keep in mind as each decade passes when you are a homeowner.