Repair or Replace: Making the Decision for Key Home Features
Maintaining your home often means having to make a decision about whether to repair or replace certain elements. Repairing an item isn’t always the best option or the most cost-effective way to tackle an issue. Sometimes, you’re better off replacing an appliance if it’s at end of its lifespan. However, before you decide what to do, you need to know when it's best to replace something and when repairing it is an adequate option. There are a few things that you might want to think about before repairing or replacing.
Appliances
Your home needs a variety of appliances to make your life easier. From your fridge and oven to your dishwasher and washing machine, you need them to be working well. Depending on the appliance, they can last anywhere from 5 years to more than 10 years. If you experience a problem, knowing when to repair or replace can be hard. Obviously, the main thing to consider is the cost. If it's going to cost more to repair than replace, replacing is often the best option. However, if you think it's more important not to be wasteful, you might decide to try and repair an appliance before you replace it.
I would recommend purchasing a home warranty if you own a home. When you purchased your home, your real estate agent may have recommended one. Typically, you only pay for a deductible and the home warranty company will either repair or replace the appliance for you. The cost of a home warranty varies depending on the size of your home and it’s a good option for protecting your wallet from large repair bills. Home warranty companies can cover major appliances, HVAC systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, and more.
Roof
The roof protects your home from the elements. Depending on the type of roofing materials you have, it can last anywhere from 20-50 years. Asphalt shingles usually last 20 years and slate, copper, tile roofs can last 50 years. While the life of your roof can surpass the amount of time you’re in the home, it can be damaged from severe weather. If your area gets hit by a storm, you may have to replace the parts of the roof or the entire thing depending on the damage. A company like JR & Co can help you to extend the lifespan of your roof so you don't need to replace it too early. You should also get your roof inspected every few years to make sure there are no missing shingles or cracks. The earlier you find the issue, the cheaper it is to repair.
Plumbing
Your plumbing system has many different parts - from toilets, faucets, tubs, showers, hot water heaters, and plumbing lines. When you have a plumbing issue, it’s typically not something that can wait. If it’s a simple leak, you can often find a quick fix for leaks and do it yourself. However, there are definitely times when you need to call a professional. There are instances where replacing something is a good idea even when it’s not needed. Replacing an old toilet with a modern toilet that saves water can be beneficial for your utility bills over time, not to mention, it’s better for the environment.
Windows and Doors
Windows and doors can degrade over time; window seals can fail and weatherstripping may need replacement. The key is to ensure that your windows and doors keep the air in (and bugs out!). When there's a problem with a window or door in your home, it could cause myriad issues including security. Cracks in the glass should be replaced asap while you may be able to get away with repairing a broken seal. If your windows are single-pane, they won’t be as efficient in keeping even temperatures as there’s no insulation. Typical residential windows last 15-30 years so if your windows are near the end of their lifespan, it may be time to replace them with more energy-efficient double or triple-pane windows. These types of windows also block out noise, they’re simply better products all around.