You bought a house and are eager and excited to begin customizing it to your liking! However, don’t get too excited that you forget to prep before you begin your projects. Here is a list of things you should double check BEFORE starting your project:
1. Know the location of the main water shutoff valve. Whether water is bursting from a pipe, or a pipe broke altogether, it’s only a matter of minutes before everything in sight is soaking wet. Make sure you learn where your water shutoff valve is located and how to close it.
2. Call 811 before digging a hole. Don’t start your spring gardening and landscaping until you dial 811. The national dig-safely hotline will contact all of your local utilities who will come to mark the location of underground pipes, cables and wires.
3. Know the slope of your foundation. It’s important to make sure that water from rain and melting snow doesn’t soak the soil around your foundation walls. This can build up pressure that can cause leaks and cracks to your foundation, which is extremely expensive. Make sure your foundation slopes at least six inches away from your foundation. Downspouts should extend at least five feet away from your home.
4. Know the depth of your attic insulation. This is important to figure out — as come the winter months, you will not want the heat to escape.
5. Know your walls. Hanging artwork, making new shelves or customizing your closet — it’s important to know what is hiding inside your walls. A stud sensor can help you determine if there are plumbing pipes, ductwork, wires, cables or studs in your walls. Try to stay clear of vertical locations above and below wall switches.
6. Know your tree services. Trees help preserve property values and provide shade that cuts energy bills. If you must have a tree down, contact a professional.
If you need professional help in your new home, contact your Shorewest, REALTOR today!
Tags: Homeowner, How To, New, Shorewest Realtors, what to do
Categories: Home Buying
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