Renovations can breathe new life into a home, however, upgrades come with new responsibilities. To keep your investment in top shape and prevent costly repairs in the future, follow this comprehensive post-renovation maintenance checklist. Whether you updated your kitchen, added a bathroom, or redesigned your entire living space, these tips will help you maintain functionality, aesthetics, and value.

Inspect Structural Changes

Walls and Ceilings — Check for any hairline cracks or settling, especially around any new openings or additions. Document and seal minor cracks with paintable caulk. 

Floors and Subfloors — Look for uneven spots or listen for squeaks in new hardwood or tile installations. Reinforce loose boards promptly to avoid damage.

Foundation — Check the foundation of the house for any cracks or signs of settling. A stable foundation plays a crucial role in the overall strength of your house. 

Sealings — Ensure there is proper sealing around doors and windows to prevent drafts and moisture buildup. 

Verify Plumbing Work

Check for Leaks — Inspect under sinks, behind appliances, and around faucets and toilets for drips and moisture. You may want to use a moisture meter if possible. 

Check Pipes —  Ensure that all pipes are properly sealed and connected. You may also need to check for rust or corrosion, especially if you renovated an older home with cast iron pipes. 

Test Water Pressure and Flow —  Run every faucet and shower to ensure consistent and adequate pressure. Flush toilets and run the disposals to confirm proper operation.

Drainage — Pour a bucket of water down each drain to ensure water flows properly and catch any potential clogs early. 

Assess Electrical Upgrades

Switches and Outlets — After renovations, test all new switches, outlets, and USB ports. Listen for any buzzing sounds or feel for any warmth, indicating loose connections.

Lighting Fixtures —  Ensure that dimmers, pendants, and recessed lights function correctly. Replace any bulbs that flicker or fail prematurely.

Safety Devices — Check Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in wet areas and test smoke and CO detectors. Replace batteries as needed and verify proper operation.

If you smell anything burning, you could have an urgent electrical problem. 

Maintain HVAC and Ventilation

Filter Replacement — Change or clean filters in HVAC units, range hoods, and bathroom vents after the first month post-renovation, then regularly every three months.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors — After completing renovations, make sure your detectors are working correctly and change the batteries regularly. Consider scheduling battery changes when changing clocks for daylight saving time. 

Make sure you check everything for any unusual noises or strange smells. 

Preserve Exterior Upgrades

Roof and Gutters — Remove debris and inspect for loose shingles or flashing issues around new dormers or skylights. Ensure gutters are properly pitched and water flows freely. 

Siding and Paint —  Examine painted surfaces and siding for chips, bubbles, or fading. Touch up paint and repair siding joints to prevent water damage. 

Decks and Patios — After renovations, check railings, stairs, and decking boards to make sure they are stable and not wobbling. Reapply sealant or stain to newly installed wood surfaces to guard against moisture.

Care for New Appliances and Fixtures

Warranties and Manuals — Organize all the documents you have for your appliances, fixtures, and materials and store them in a dedicated folder in a safe place. 

Routine Cleaning — Read and follow manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance. For example, descale and clean faucets and showerheads every three months. 

Performance Checks – Make sure all appliances, including dishwashers, ovens, and HVAC systems, work properly. This also gives you a chance to catch errors before they escalate. 

Monitor Moisture and Insulation

Basements and Crawlspaces — Inspect vapor barriers and insulation for gaps or damage. If humidity rises above 50%, use a dehumidifier or sump sump to lower the moisture level. 

Attic Ventilation — Verify that ridge vents, soffit vents, and any new insulation don’t block airflow. Proper ventilation prevents mold growth and ice dams.

Landscape and Drainage

Grading — Ensure soil slopes away from the foundation, especially near new foundation walls or underground utilities. This prevents water from pooling around near the edge of your house and causing issues. 

Irrigation Systems —  Test timers, valves, and sprinkler heads after installation. You may also want to adjust zones seasonally to avoid overwatering.

Hardscape Maintenance — Seal stone pathways or retaining walls and repair mortar joints to preserve structural integrity.

Follow this Checklist to Make Sure Your Renovation Lasts

Completing a renovation marks an exciting milestone in the lifespan of your home, however, it’s just the beginning of maintaining a beautiful, functional home. By staying on top of regular inspections, cleaning, and upkeep, and completing this checklist, you can ensure that your upgrades remain in excellent condition and continue to add value and comfort to your living space.

In a home where chaos prevails — kids running around, pets tracking in dirt, guests popping by unexpectedly, your flooring needs to not only be beautiful but also needs to stand up to wear and tear, be easy to clean, and last for years without losing its appeal. Here’s a roundup of the most durable flooring options for busy households, so you can enjoy your space without worrying about scuffs and spills.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is designed to mimic the appearance of natural wood flooring. It includes multiple layers, including a wear layer for protection, a design layer for visual appeal, and a core layer for strength and stability. It may also include an antimicrobial layer. It only needs to be swept or vacuumed weekly, and mopped with a damp mop (avoid steam mops). 

Luxury vinyl plank works great in busy households because it’s water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and incredibly low maintenance. It is best for kitchens, mudrooms, playrooms, and any other messy spaces.

Porcelain or Ceramic Tile

Tile resists moisture, humidity, scratches, and heat, making it almost indestructible and perfect for busy households. It also comes in countless designs, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional. However, it can be cold and hard underfoot, so consider adding rugs in high-traffic areas. 

Tile works best for bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, and laundry rooms. It can be maintained with daily sweeping and mopping with a mild cleaner. The grout may need to be sealed every 6 to 12 months. 

Laminate Flooring

Modern laminate flooring is durable and tough while also being budget-friendly. Laminate has a wear layer that resists scratches, dents, stains, and fading. It’s not as waterproof as vinyl, but water-resistant varieties are available. 

This flooring is best for living rooms, dining areas, bedrooms, and particularly homes with kids and pets. To maintain this floor, use a damp microfiber cloth and avoid standing water. 

Engineered Hardwood

Engineered hardwood is perfect for those who love the look of real wood but need something more robust. It has a genuine wood veneer on top with a stable core underneath that makes it less prone to warping than solid hardwood. If properly taken care of, this flooring can last for two to three decades. It’s perfect for main living spaces in busy households where you want to have style and strength. 

You should sweep weekly and clean with a manufacturer-approved wood cleaner. It may need to be refinished once or twice over its lifespan. 

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo is sustainable and strong. Strand-woven bamboo, in particular, is extremely durable and can handle high traffic. It’s also naturally resistant to moisture and insects, though it shouldn’t be used in places prone to water damage and excess moisture, such as the bathroom. 

This flooring works well for eco-conscious families and busy households wanting something unique and different. It can be taken care of similarly to hardwood and doesn’t need a lot of water to clean. 

Concrete Flooring

Concrete flooring provides a super modern, industrial look with unbeatable toughness. Making it almost impossible to damage. It’s easy to clean, stain-resistant when properly sealed, and can even be stained or textured for added style. 

However, while it can be used in basements, it shouldn’t be used on floors above the basement because of how heavy it is. It’s best used in contemporary homes and open-concept spaces. It should be swept daily, mopped with a concrete cleaner, and resealed every two to five years. 

Nylon Carpet

Nylon carpet is strong and resilient and praised for its ability to retain its shape. These fibers bounce back quickly after compression, reducing matting. You can also treat nylon carpet with stain protection to make spills easy to clean. Its long-lasting performance makes this carpet great for busy households with pets, kids, and frequent foot traffic. 

Triextra Carpet

This newer fiber is made from polyester and is naturally stain-resistant and has exceptional durability. Unlike nylon carpet, it doesn’t need added stain treatments. It also provides a plush feel without sacrificing strength. It is sometimes made from corn sugar or other recycled content, making it more environmentally friendly. It is the perfect carpet for families who need flooring that stands up to messes and wear. 

You can maintain carpet with weekly vacuuming, prompt stain removal, and occasional deep cleaning. 

Durable Flooring for Busy Households

Just because you need durable flooring doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice aesthetics. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers, managing muddy pets, or hosting game nights, you can find a flooring solution that looks great and still fits your lifestyle.

Just remember to consider your household’s unique needs when making your choice. Do you need the flooring to be water resistant, comfortable, easy to maintain, or budget-friendly? Want help picking the right flooring for your home? Contact us — we’re here to help you make the best choice for your space.

Spring cleaning marks the perfect time to refresh your home and give your floors the attention they need. After a harsh winter, your floors could’ve collected a lot of dust, dirt, and grime. Whether you have carpet, hardwood, laminate, or tile, the right techniques and products make the difference between a clean space and a spotless one. Here are eight tips to help you give your floors a thorough cleaning this season. 

1. Start with Decluttering

Before you can start on your floors, like any spring cleaning, you need to first pick up clutter. Move furniture, rugs, and any other items that may be obstructing the floor. This gives you access to hidden corners, edges, and any other nooks and crannies, making cleaning easier. 

2. Dust and Sweep First 

The next step will be to clean up all the dust, dirt, pet hair, and other debris that has accumulated on your floors. Make sure to dust the baseboards and edges then sweep or vacuum your floors to remove all the loose dirt or particles. To protect hardwood or tile floors, use a microfiber mop or broom to catch dust without scratching surfaces. 

3. Choose the Right Cleaning Solution 

Make sure you use the right cleaning products in order to maintain and protect your floors. Here’s what to use for different surfaces: 

Hardwood —  Avoid water-based cleaners as they may damage your wood floors. Instead, use a pH-balanced wood cleaner and a slightly damp mop. Too much water can warp wood, so be sure to wring out your mop well.

Tile — For grout and tiles, use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent works. For tough stains or grout cleaning, you can use a paste made from baking soda and water.

Carpet — Consider using a carpet cleaner, especially if you’re dealing with stains or high-traffic areas. Steam clean or rent a professional-grade carpet cleaner to give your carpet a deeper clean. 

Laminate — Use a damp mop with a laminate-friendly cleaner to remove dust and grime without causing any damage. Like hardwood floors, using too much water can cause warping or other damage. 

Focus on Stains and High-Traffic Areas

Certain areas of your floor, such as the entryway and hallways, may accumulate more dirt. Pay extra attention to these areas, you may even need to use spot treatments for stains or anything heavily soiled. For carpets, you can use a steam cleaner or spot-clean with a suitable product. For hardwood or laminate, use a gentle, safe solution to wipe away any stubborn stains.

Deep Clean Grout Lines

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to tackle the often neglected grout lines of your title floor. As a result of daily use, tile floor grout can accumulate dirt and grime, causing it to become discolored. To clean it thoroughly, use a paste made of water and baking soda or a grout cleaner and scrub with a toothbrush or any other skinny brush that can easily get in the cracks. Use can also use a steam mop to help tackle stubborn stains. 

Use a Steam Mop

A steam mop helps you get a deep clean, especially on tile or laminate floors. Steam can sanitize and remove dirt without using harsh chemicals. Make sure you use the appropriate setting for your floor type and that you can use a steam mop on your floor, as some floors will warp from the steam. 

Dry Thoroughly

After you have mopped your floors, make sure they dry completely; leaving floors damp can lead to mold, mildew, or water stains. You can use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or towel to wipe up excess moisture if needed from hardwood, laminate, and tile floors. For carpets, ensure proper ventilation by opening windows or using fans to speed up the drying process. 

Protect Your Floors After Cleaning

Once your floors are clean and dry, it’s time to protect them. Consider adding area rugs or mats to high-traffic areas, such as near doors or in the kitchen, to keep that section of your floor in good condition. Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent them from scratching your hardwood or laminate floors.

Maintain Regularly

Spring cleaning may have given you the chance to deep clean your floors and baseboards, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need regular maintenance to stay fresh year-round. Regular sweeping, vacuuming, and occasional spot cleaning can help reduce the buildup of dirt and dust.

Tackle Your Floors During Spring Cleaning This Year

Spring cleaning gives you the perfect opportunity to refresh your home and give your floors the attention they deserve. By following this guide, your floors will shine, and your space will feel fresh and inviting.