What Every Surviving Spouse Should Know About Maintaining Their Home
Losing a spouse is heartbreaking, and navigating home maintenance can feel overwhelming.
But keeping your home in good shape doesn’t have to be daunting.
This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of home upkeep, from plumbing to safety checks, so you can handle it with confidence.
1. Understanding Your Home’s Systems
First things first, familiarize yourself with your home’s critical systems.
This includes plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and structural components.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.
In case of a leak, shutting off the water supply quickly can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Get to know your circuit breaker panel, which controls your home’s electricity.
Label each switch if it’s not already marked to avoid confusion during outages.
For HVAC systems, regular filter changes are crucial.
Most filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter.
2. Create a Maintenance Schedule
A maintenance schedule is your best friend for keeping your house running smoothly.
Breaking tasks into manageable pieces makes everything feel less overwhelming.
Monthly tasks might include checking smoke detectors and unclogging drains.
Quarterly tasks could involve cleaning gutters or inspecting your HVAC system.
Real-life example: Susan, a widow in her 50s, found that setting calendar reminders on her phone kept her on top of chores like flushing the water heater annually to prevent sediment buildup.
3. Managing Outdoor Spaces
Your yard and outdoor structures need attention, too.
Overgrown landscaping can cause issues like pest infestations or clogged gutters.
Keep trees and bushes trimmed away from the house.
This prevents moisture buildup and limits access points for critters.
If you have a deck or patio, inspect it annually for signs of wear, such as loose boards or rusted nails.
Pressure washing can refresh the exterior of your home, but be careful not to damage delicate surfaces like wood siding.
4. Budgeting for Repairs and Upgrades
Unexpected repairs can be costly.
Set aside a portion of your budget—about 1% of your home’s value annually—for maintenance.
For example, if your home is worth $300,000, aim to save $3,000 each year for repairs and upgrades.
Prioritize repairs over aesthetic upgrades.
Fixing a leaky roof or replacing old wiring is more critical than repainting walls.
5. Knowing When to Call a Professional
While DIY can save money, some tasks are better left to experts.
Electrical work, plumbing issues, and roof repairs often require a professional touch.
Real-life example: After her husband passed, Linda tried to repair a leaking faucet herself.
But without the right tools, she ended up making the problem worse and called a plumber to fix it.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure.
It’s better to spend a little upfront than face costly mistakes later.
6. Keep Your Home Safe
Home safety is a priority, especially if you live alone.
Start by ensuring locks on all doors and windows are secure.
Install motion-activated outdoor lights and consider a home security system for added peace of mind.
Regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location.
7. Building a Support Network
Don’t go it alone.
Lean on friends, family, or neighbors for support when it comes to home maintenance.
Many communities have handyman services specifically for seniors or widows.
Look into local resources that can help.
For example, Gloria’s neighbor showed her how to change a furnace filter, turning a once-daunting task into a manageable routine.
FAQs for Surviving Spouses
How do I find the main water shut-off valve?
Look in the basement, crawl space, or near your water meter.
It’s usually a lever or wheel handle that can be turned to stop the flow of water.
What should I do if I can’t afford major repairs?
Explore financial assistance programs.
Nonprofits and local government agencies often provide grants or low-interest loans for essential home repairs.
How can I stay organized with maintenance tasks?
Use a checklist or app like HomeZada to track and schedule tasks.
Staying consistent is the key to avoiding last-minute surprises.
Final Thoughts
Losing a spouse is never easy, but maintaining your home can be manageable with the right knowledge and resources.
By understanding your home’s systems, creating a schedule, and leaning on support networks, you can confidently care for your house.
Remember, small steps add up, and there’s no need to tackle everything at once.
Your home is your sanctuary, and keeping it well-maintained is a step toward finding peace and stability.