Etobicoke Handyman: Home Repair and Maintenance Checklist for Seniors

Keeping up with house maintenance is essential for safety, especially for seniors. A repair checklist ensures you don’t accidentally let minor issues become major expenses. Timely maintenance can also keep property values high, prevent falls and lower energy bills. When creating your checklist, don’t forget to include the following home repairs for seniors.

Take Security Seriously

Criminals often target society’s most vulnerable, including seniors with chronic health issues or living far away from family. The good news is that you can deter unsavoury characters with the right security measures.

A good place to start is a doorbell camera. These alert you to the presence of someone on your doorstep, whether or not they ring the doorbell. This technology can be especially helpful if you receive a lot of packages, as you’ll be able to retrieve your mail before porch pirates try to snatch them.

Motion-activated lights are another great investment, as they conserve energy while scaring away hoodlums. Criminals don’t like to take risks, and floodlights blazing to life in the middle of the night is sure to attract lots of attention. As a result, they’ll avoid your property as too much trouble.

Finally, consider an alarm system. These security systems alert the police when a door or window opens without the correct code, ensuring authorities arrive as quickly as possible. If you already have an alarm system, have the company perform maintenance at least once a year.

Inspect the Floors

Many people experience balance issues as they age. Combine that with other health problems such as osteoporosis, and you have trouble. One way to prevent serious falls is to ensure floors are clean and even.

Of course, flooring maintenance varies by material. Vinyl and laminate require less maintenance, though you have to replace them more frequently. In contrast, wood and natural stone can last decades but require more work.

For hardwood, sweep daily and avoid moisture exposure, as the boards will absorb it and warp. If your wood floor has water damage, chips or scrapes, contact repair services in Etobicoke. Professionals can sand out superficial damage and seal the wood to prevent further issues. They can also replace floorboards that are beyond repair.

Natural stone handles moisture better if the tiles are sealed correctly. Cracked tiles and worn grout require professional attention, as they present tripping hazards.

Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors work in the background, so it’s easy to forget they require maintenance. Most detectors have a “test” button that will flash or beep when pressed, signalling the sensor has adequate power.

Many modern detectors have electrical wiring, but if you live in an older home, yours may require batteries. Most models need batteries replaced every six months, though some come equipped with long-term batteries that only require replacement after several years. If you’re not sure which you have, contact the manufacturer for clarification.

Repair Windows and Doors

Windows and doors can present security issues as well as energy-efficiency problems. Wooden frames can warm over time, leading to latches that don’t catch and minute gaps where drafts can get in. Windows should be replaced every 20 years, while doors can last up to 40. However, you may need to replace them earlier if you notice the following:

• Significant temperature change near the door or window

• Worsened allergies during the spring

• Higher utility bills

You should also look after the garage door, as criminals target damaged or old garage doors as easy ways into a home. The moving parts also need regular inspections to prevent accidents; make sure the sensor that detects obstructions is in working order.

Home Repairs for Seniors in Etobicoke

The experts at Handyman Connection can help with senior home repair, including flooring removal and installation, bathroom upgrades and aging-in-place remodelling. Our team is a group of professionals trained to complete the job in an effective and timely manner. For more information, submit a request online or give us a call today.