The 80/20 Rule of Home Maintenance
When I first became a homeowner, I was an "all or nothing" guy when it came to home maintenance.
I thought I had to do every maintenance task at once or none at all. Anytime I missed something, I’d get overwhelmed and discouraged. Then I’d just put things off even longer.
That’s not a good way to maintain a home.
My approach changed when I realized I didn't have to be all-in on maintenance but to look at it from an 80/20 standpoint.
The 80/20 rule is simple:
80% of your efforts should focus on the critical maintenance tasks that prevent major issues. The remaining 20% can be flexible, focusing on less urgent tasks.
If you're organizing your maintenance schedule, it could look like dedicating 80% of your time to the most important areas (roof, HVAC, plumbing) while the other 20% can address minor repairs or making your home look nicer.
Let's break it down:
Prioritize the Essential 20%
Identify the most important maintenance tasks that will prevent expensive repairs and make sure your home remains safe and efficient. Here are 5 key areas to focus on:
1. Roof Inspection and Maintenance
Regularly check for leaks, missing shingles, and any damage. A well-maintained roof can prevent water damage and extend its lifespan
2. HVAC System Maintenance
Schedule annual inspections and change filters regularly. A well-functioning HVAC system improves energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
3. Plumbing Checks
Look for leaks, drips, and signs of water damage. Addressing plumbing issues early can prevent costly repairs and water waste.
4. Foundation Inspection
Check for cracks and signs of shifting. Early detection can save you from significant structural repairs.
5. Electrical System Safety
Make sure your electrical system is up to code, and regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
The Flexible 20%
Once you've covered the essentials, you can put the remaining 20% of your efforts to things that are still important but won’t impact your home’s overall “health.” These might include:
1. Painting and Other “Make It Pretty” Upgrades
This could include putting a new color on your door, or adding some fresh paint to the interior. Or maybe you make some minor decor changes, like adding a new mirror or piece of art to the wall.
2. Landscaping
Keep your yard tidy and well-maintained, but don't stress over every weed or patch of grass. Unless you just love planting and have a green thumb, don’t feel like you have to go over the top with flowers. They do look nice, but they take time and attention. Just a single attractive pot with a small group of flowers can really dress up a patio.
3. Minor Repairs
Fix squeaky doors, loose handles, or minor drywall cracks as you notice them.
Why the 80/20 Rule Works
Shooting for perfection in home maintenance is nearly impossible, and it’s not something you’ll be able to keep up with. By focusing on the essential 20%, you’ll make sure your home remains in good condition and prevent major issues down the road. And, if you ever decide to sell, it makes it that much easier to get your house on the market and makes it more attractive to buyers.
This balanced approach allows you to live comfortably and confidently in your home without feeling overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list.
Try It Out
Give the 80/20 rule a try when it comes to home maintenance. Remember to focus on the most important tasks first, and you'll find that the smaller, less urgent ones naturally fall into place.
Let me know how it works for you, and feel free to reach out if you need any more tips or have questions about maintaining your home effectively.
