Home Maintenance in the Southwest - Tony Atwell, Santa Fe Real Estate

Home Maintenance in the Southwest

By Walter Drew Home and Construction Inspections wdrew@owol.net

Cracks in stucco should be filled with an acrylic or silicone type of caulk. It is important to do this before the start of winter freeze/thaw season.
Exterior woodwork should be inspected and treated as needed on an annual basis. The south and west sides are especially vulnerable to the sun.
Minor interior cracks caused by shrinking or settling are best patched with an expandable high-grade caulk.
Where tile meets another surface or turns 90 degrees, frequently the grout works itself loose. The best solution is to use an expandable tub and tile sealer. This would be true on countertops and in tubs and showers.
In the fall it is advisable to inspect the roof, especially the flashing and canales and patch as needed. This can be accomplished by a competent homeowner, handyman or professional roofer. On houses with parapets, the roof inspection should include patching and sealing of all cracks in the parapets.
Remove large icicles from canales. The weight can cause the canale to pivot and rip the roof flashing.
Heating systems should be cleaned and maintained annually prior to the start of the heating season.
Fireplaces and chimneys should be inspected and cleaned as necessary at least once a year.
Wood burning stoves may require more frequent chimney cleaning.
Smoke alarm/detectors should be checked quarterly.
The hot water heater should be drained at least once a year.
Insure that surface water is kept away from foundations. Use splash blocks or gravel to control water splashing.
Door locks can be lubricated with graphite either applied to the key or squirted in the keyhole.
Septic tanks should be pumped and cleaned at least every two years, or more frequently with heavy use.

Santa Fe, NM Real Estate

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		Anthony Atwell, Jr. ABR, CRS, ePRO 505-670-2177, RE/MAX Capital - Each Office Independently Owned and Operated 411 St. Michaels Dr. Ste. 3, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 87505 505-988-4688