Houses in Melbourne’s west are typically older, and a large number are weatherboard. Many are already older than the generally expected lifespan of 60 years for a house. And the materials they are made of are prone to wind, sun and water damage.
Regular property maintenance can really extend the lifespan of our homes and make them comfortable and safe. Doing a bit of house maintenance on a regular basis can also help keep bills low and put off the need for major renovations. You can do it yourself or get a local handyman’s help.
Here’s our summary of the top maintenance issues and our schedule of items to check in just a few minutes a month to keep your house at its best.
Top maintenance issues for Melbourne houses
Weatherboard houses in Melbourne can experience a variety of upkeep problems due to the materials used, their age, and their exposure to the elements. Here are a few common issues that you might come across:
- Paint peeling or fading: One of the most common issues with weatherboard houses is peeling or fading paint. This is primarily due to exposure to weather conditions such as sun, rain, and wind. If not addressed promptly, this can lead to further damage to the underlying wood.
- Timber decay: Weatherboards are usually made from timber, which can decay over time. This is often due to moisture penetration, especially if the paint or finish has been compromised.
- Insect damage: Termites and other insects can cause significant damage to the timber in weatherboard houses. This is usually a bigger issue if there’s damp or rotting wood, which insects are attracted to.
- Movement and cracking: Older houses often experience movement due to changes in the the local black soil conditions, foundation issues or natural ageing of the structure. This can lead to cracking or gaps in the weatherboards, allowing moisture or pests to enter.
- Insulation issues: Many older houses lack modern insulation, leading to heat loss in the winter and excessive heat gain in the summer. This not only impacts comfort but can also contribute to higher energy bills. Remember to keep your air conditioning serviced regularly too.
- Roof and gutter issues: Like any house, weatherboard homes require regular roof and gutter maintenance. Issues can arise due to weather exposure, leaf litter, and other debris. Damaged or blocked gutters can cause water to overflow, potentially damaging the boards or foundation.
- Plumbing and electrical issues: Due to the age of the house, there may be outdated plumbing or electrical systems which need to be upgraded or maintained regularly to avoid major issues or safety hazards. It’s not unusual for older houses to still have cloth-wrapped electrical wires!
- Window and door maintenance: Wooden window frames and doors can also decay or become damaged over time, requiring repair or replacement.
Remember, regular maintenance can help to mitigate many of these issues and prolong the lifespan of your weatherboard home. You can either do it yourself or consider calling a local handyman.
Tell-tale signs your Melbourne house needs maintenance
Here are some tell-tale signs your house needs some attention:
- Paint peeling or fading: Discolouration of the paint, cracking, blistering or flaking paint, or visible timber underneath.
- Timber decay: Soft or spongy feeling boards, visible mould or mildew, or a musty smell.
- Insect damage: Small holes in the timber, sawdust-like material around the house, or the presence of insects themselves (like termites).
- Movement and cracking: Visible cracks in the boards or the house’s structure, doors or windows that stick or won’t close properly.
- Insulation issues: Uncomfortably cold in winter or hot in summer, higher energy bills, drafts around windows and doors.
- Roof and gutter issues: Water overflowing from gutters, damp patches inside on ceilings or walls, loose or missing tiles, or build-up of debris in the gutters. A gutter cleaning northern beaches colleague regularly reminds me of the importance of keeping this up to date. While we don’t have big tropical storms in Melbourne, if we don’t keep on top of it, blocked gutters can cause a big problem
- Plumbing and electrical issues: Flickering lights, frequently tripped circuit breakers, slow drains, water spots or stains, or unusual smells from outlets or plumbing fixtures.
- Window and door maintenance: Difficulty opening or closing, decay or damage visible on the frames, drafts around the frames, peeling or cracked paint.
Regularly checking your house for these signs can help you spot potential problems early, making them easier and often cheaper to fix.
Monthly maintenance checklist for homes in Melbourne’s west
In just a few minutes a month, it’s quick and easy to keep an eye on potential issues so that you can get on top of them before they become a big problem. Put a recurring reminder in your calendar to check our recommended list of house maintenance items:
- Inspect the paint: Check for any signs of peeling, blistering, or cracking paint on the weatherboards, trim, windows, and doors. Early detection can prevent further damage.
- Check for signs of timber decay: Look for any soft or discoloured patches on the weatherboards, especially in damp or shaded areas.
- Inspect for insect activity: Keep an eye out for signs of insects, particularly termites, which include small holes in the timber or a sawdust-like substance around the base of the house.
- Examine doors and windows: Check that all doors and windows are opening and closing smoothly. Look for any signs of decay or damage to the frames and seals.
- Inspect roof and gutters: Look for any visible signs of damage to the roof, such as loose or missing tiles. Check gutters for blockages and clear out any leaves or debris.
- Check plumbing: Look for any signs of leaks or damp spots under sinks and around the bathroom and laundry areas. Check the water pressure and ensure the drains are flowing smoothly. Look for any gaps in grouting around tiling where water could be getting through
- Check electrical systems: Test your smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly. Look for any signs of electrical issues such as flickering lights or unusual smells from outlets.
- Monitor cracks: Keep an eye on any existing cracks in the weatherboards or the house’s structure for any changes. New cracks may indicate movement that should be investigated further.
- Review insulation: If your home feels unusually cold or hot, or your energy bills seem high, it might be worth having your insulation checked.
An expert tip is to take a photo from the same position each month from any potential problem areas. Create a specific album in your phone so that you can easily compare over time. That way you’ll be able to see if a problem is new or growing.
And when you’re ready for a refresh, check out our tips on how to replace, repair and rejuvenate your home.
These regular checks will help you catch any potential issues early before they become larger problems.
Seasonal house maintenance checks for Melbourne homes
As well as the monthly checks, to make sure everything is ready for the coming season, here’s our top list of house maintenance items to check each quarter:
Spring
In Melbourne, spring typically runs from September to November. With the weather getting warmer and often wetter, it’s an important time to prepare your home for the changing conditions. Here are some additional spring-specific checks for your weatherboard home:
- Spring cleaning: Spring is a good time for a deep clean of your home, which includes cleaning window tracks, washing curtains, blinds, and window screens.
- Garden maintenance: After winter, your garden may need some attention. Trim back any vegetation close to your house to prevent damage to your weatherboards and to reduce dampness and insect activity. Note any paths or paving need repair
- Service heating system: While you won’t need your heating system (well not as much!) during the spring and summer, it’s a good time to service it so that it’s ready for the next cold season, when there’s no urgency
- Check outdoor plumbing: Check outdoor taps and sprinkler systems for any leaks or damage caused by winter weather
- Test smoke alarms: With the change of the season, it’s a good time to test smoke alarms and replace batteries if necessary.
Summer
Depending on the El Nino conditions, summer can be hot, dry and windy. Here are out top summer maintenance tasks:
- Get fire ready: If you live near a grassland area, you may be at risk of unplanned grass fires, make sure your house and garden are prepared. Clear gutters of leaf debris, prune overhanging branches, and ensure flammable materials aren’t stored near your house.
- Service air conditioning units: At the start of summer, clean your air conditioning unit filters, get them serviced, and in working order to deal with the upcoming heat. That way you won’t be sweltering when its 40 degrees outside and all the maintenance companies have a long waiting list.
- Garden maintenance: In addition to checking for overgrowth near your house, ensure your garden is prepared for the hotter, drier conditions. This might involve mulching, checking irrigation systems, or planting summer-friendly species.
Autumn and Winter
Autumn in Melbourne typically runs from March to May and rolls into winter which often feels like it lasts forever! Here’s our maintenance list for autumn and winter:
- Gutter cleaning: As trees shed their leaves, it’s important to regularly clean out your gutters to prevent blockages which can cause water damage to your house.
- Inspect roof: Before the onset of winter, thoroughly inspect your roof for any damage or potential leaks. Repair any issues to ensure it’s ready to withstand winter weather.
- Check heating systems: Test your heating systems to ensure they are functioning properly as the colder weather sets in.
- Seal windows and doors: Check the seals around windows and doors to ensure they are ready for the cold weather. Draughty windows and doors can significantly increase your heating costs. Check out our great tips for keeping your Melbourne house warm in winter.
How a handyman can help with house maintenance
If you keep on top of issues in your home, you may be able to manage them yourself. But we all have busy lives and family commitments. And we need time to relax! And we all have tasks that we know we need to do, but just don’t quite get around to doing…
So if it’s too much for you, or you just don’t have the time or inclination, a local handyman might be able to help. Here’s how they can assist with some common maintenance tasks:
- Painting: A handyman can scrape off any peeling paint and repaint surfaces to protect the timber underneath. They might also identify areas you didn’t notice that need attention.
- Repairing timber decay and damage: If any decay or damage is found on your weatherboards, a handyman can replace the damaged sections, treat the area to prevent further decay, and repaint it to match the rest of the house.
- Pest control: While a pest control specialist might be needed for severe infestations, a handyman can help repair the damage caused by pests and seal areas where pests are entering the house.
- Fixing cracks and gaps: Handymen can repair cracks and gaps in the weatherboards and the structure of the house, helping prevent moisture and pests from entering.
- Repairing or replacing windows and doors: If your windows or doors are sticking, a handyman can often repair them. They can also replace rotten frames and install new windows or doors if necessary.
- Insulation: A handyman can assist with improving your home’s insulation by sealing gaps and drafts and even installing additional insulation if required.
- Roof and gutter maintenance: Handymen can often repair minor roof damage and clean gutters. If your gutters need replacing, a handyman can sometimes handle this as well.
- Plumbing, electrical and garden maintenance: While not qualified in plumbing, electrical or landscaping work, a handyman usually has an extensive network of other tradespeople they can recommend to get the tasks done promptly.
- Installing smoke alarms and safety equipment: A handyman can assist with the installation and maintenance of safety equipment like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, where they don’t require electrical installation
Remember, while a handyman can help with a wide range of tasks, certain issues might require the expertise of a specialist, such as a licensed electrician or plumber. Always ensure that the person working on your home has the necessary skills and qualifications for the job.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance is essential for preserving the lifespan and condition of older weatherboard houses in Melbourne’s west. By addressing common issues and dedicating just a few minutes each month to check key areas, you can keep your home comfortable and safe, and avoid unexpected costs. Don’t underestimate the power of small, consistent efforts in maintaining your house’s integrity and minimising the need for major renovations.
Ready to give your weatherboard house the attention it deserves? Contact us today for professional maintenance services tailored to the unique needs of Melbourne’s west homeowners.