When Is It Time to Replace Different Parts of Your Home?

When was the last time you replaced different parts of your house? Every person wishes to live in a comfortable and beautiful home. However, the appearance and the condition of different parts of your house can negatively influence your comfort. Therefore, it is crucial to check whether certain areas need replacement. Besides, replacements can significantly boost your house’s value when selling it. So, how long should various parts last, and how can a person determine when to replace them? This article outlines the duration of different parts of a house and how to determine whether the parts need replacement.

Your Roof

The life expectancy of a roof depends on a person’s location, the material, the building design, and a person’s determination to maintain it. A slate or copper roof can last for over fifty years. Wood-shake roofs can last for approximately thirty years, while fiber-cement roofs can last for 25 years. Lastly, asphalt shingles can last between 20 to 50 years based on the climate of where they are installed. However, you should consider replacing your roof if you note any of the following signs:

• Curling shingles
• If the whole shingle is missing
• Cracked shingles
• If you note granules in the gutter
• If the shingles are covered with moss or algae
• If the whole roof is sagging
• If you can observe sunlight from the attic

Air Conditioning System

The central air conditioning system can typically last for ten to fifteen years, while the window air conditioner usually lasts for five to seven years. You can prolong your air conditioner lifespan by serving the unit annually, maintaining the cleanliness of filters, and trimming bushes surrounding the outdoor equipment. However, the unit’s components will eventually wear out after some time. Before you purchase an air conditioner system, you should pay attention to the system’s energy efficiency to avoid paying large utility bills. Besides, you should also check if the unit has any incentives or rebates when purchasing it. Additionally, the following signs may indicate that the system needs a replacement:

• Moisture build-ups
• Foul smells
• Strange sounds
• High energy bills

Your Water Heater

A water heater is an essential appliance in a house. It is useful in various activities such as cooking, cleaning, and bathing. Besides, other appliances such as the washing machine and the dishwasher also depend on it. However, irrespective of its importance, this equipment is susceptible to wearing out, and after some time, it needs a replacement. Generally, a water heater lasts for ten years, while tankless water heaters can last for over 20 years. Furthermore, it would help if you observed the following signs since they may indicate a need for a replacement:

• Fluctuating or inconsistent water temperatures
• Baffling rising energy costs
• Low hot water capacity
• Slow drip leak
• Advancing water heater age

Flooring

Your flooring can last for many years if you maintain it properly. Vinyl flooring can last for approximately fifty years. However, tile flooring depends on the type of tile, foot traffic, and maintenance. You can consider replacing your flow for the following reasons:

• If the flooring is old
• If the flooring has soft spots and cracks
• If the flooring appears outdated
• If it makes odd sounds and groans
• If it appears uneven
• If you intend to increase your house value

Your Electric Panels

Many people only think about their electrical panels when flipping a circuit breaker. However, an electrical panel is an essential element in your home. Therefore, you should pay close attention to it to ensure it continues to function correctly. Generally, you should replace your electrical panel after 25 to 40 years. Therefore, if your house is this old, you should consider replacing it. Furthermore, you should also replace it if:

• It lacks outlets which you need
• It’s warm when you touch it
• it has rusted
• It smells like a burnt thing

It is essential to replace parts of your home when the need arises. This can make your home look more appealing, make it more comfortable, and keep you and your family safe. Being aware of when it’s time to look into replacing different parts of your home can help, but you should always make sure that you’re on the lookout for things malfunctioning.