How To Create A Low-Maintenance Home

This is a collaborative post.

A low-maintenance home has many advantages, such as less cleaning time, lower repair costs, and greater energy efficiency. According to a recent survey, millennials are all about low-maintenance vibes, with easy-to-clean surfaces topping the wish lists for younger homebuyers. Whether moving into a brand-new building or sprucing up your place with a makeover, having a low-maintenance home with the right features that can stand the test of time is the way to go. Check out these tips on how to create a low-maintenance home. 

1. Organize and declutter 

Navigating through piles of stuff you hardly touch or need can turn your home into an unwelcoming space. It’s time to sort your stuff into categories like everyday essentials, the things you occasionally need, and the stuff just taking up space. Consider donating the items, collecting dust, and organizing the rest into your preferred groups. You may slide in some drawers, add shelves, and keep things in storage bins so everything has a cozy spot. If it helps, you can also clearly mark or label your storage areas to ensure your items are always easily identified. Only place the things you constantly use in easy-to-reach places so you don’t have to spend too much time looking for them.  

2. Use washable paint finishes 

Washable paint is easy to wipe down, perfect for spaces that have a lot of traffic and action, especially if you have little kids and furry friends in the home. The fingerprints can leave your walls crying for a painting job every time. Painting may not be the most expensive home improvement, yet a quality job, particularly regularly, can cause a dent in your wallet.

But that’s where washable paint finishes can save the day. Say goodbye to fingerprints and paw prints, and keep your high-traffic spots stain-free. Plus, you can choose your favorite colors to bring life into your interior, allowing you to get creative.

3. Make the most of your time 

Time is money, and you must be smart about your use. It’s all about sneaking in quick tasks when they come up, no matter how busy your schedule. Although it might be tempting to leave tasks like vacuuming your living room or putting those plates and cutlery in the dishwasher for later, don’t let the little stuff stay untouched for too long. Carve out at least 10 minutes each day to tidy up. It’s like a daily sweep to keep things in check and avoid those mega chores that eat up your weekend. This step is a straightforward way to achieve a hassle-free home. 

4. Try metal roofing 

Metal roofs have been a classic choice since the 1800s. Fast forward to today, and metal sheets and shingles are still stealing the show. Metals like aluminum and zinc are affordable, easy to haul around, and stunning, even as they age. These metal roofs can stand tall for up to 80 years. And let’s remember aluminum gutters, which are the unsung heroes of roofing installation. An aluminium gutter requires minimal maintenance, no rusting, and no need for paint or sealant. You’re good to go with just a bit of cleaning to take care of leaves and dirt. 

5. Use non-porous countertop materials 

Non-porous countertops like quartz are durable and respond well to wear and tear. These countertops can keep you smiling even in the face of stains and scratches with no sealing needed. This is very convenient, as you constantly have to deal with spills and other situations in the kitchen. Say goodbye to the stress of high-maintenance counters and keep things sleek and scratch-free using non-porous countertop materials.

6. Install a full-height kitchen backsplash 

Still in the kitchen, full-height kitchen backsplashes might cost a bit more but are worth it. Imagine your entire kitchen wall, from counter to upper cabinets, decked out in stylish tiles. Not only does it complement your space, but it also protects your walls against cooking splatter. As a result, you won’t have to keep repainting your kitchen repeatedly. 

7. Explore cleaning automation 

Automation isn’t only making a difference in the workplace; it can also significantly impact your home. You can introduce automation in your home chores, like cleaning. This is possible thanks to robotic vacuum cleaners on the market today. These automated cleaners’ vacuums also double as a floor mop, kicking out the majority of bacteria without harsh chemicals.

Many of these cleaners have this cool laser mapping feature, and it’s smart enough to steer clear of carpets when it’s mop time to prevent any soggy surprises. You can also set it to clean up the place from your phone, making clearing hassle-free. 

8. Choose engineered hardwood 

According to a Straits Research study, people are all-in on engineered hardwood to revamp old buildings. That is because engineered hardwood is great for your floors and survives the harsh temperature and humidity swings. Plus, it’s simple to keep clean. Engineered hardwood installation should be relatively easy, and if your floors need a little TLC, you can sand and refinish them. Engineered hardwood helps keep your flooring strong and maintenance stress-free. 

9. Use tankless water heaters 

Instead of constantly warming up water like those old-school tanks, tankless water heaters only fire up when you need them. It’s like having hot water always at your service. Additionally, this on-the-spot heating makes them energy-efficient, slashing energy use by at least 24% compared to the traditional tanks. They also age like fine wine and stick around for up to 20 years with very little maintenance. That’s 5 to 10 years longer than their tank alternative. 

10. Plant a low-maintenance garden 

Gardening is a terrific way to use your space well and protect the soil and home’s foundation. However, some plants are more demanding and can easily take up your space without proper landscaping. So, choose plants that vibe with your local climate for low maintenance. Search for the ones that are suitable for your soil type. You can visit the local nursery to learn about the low-maintenance plant options. These plants save both your time and water bills. Also, depending on your chosen trees, they can provide shade and enhance privacy, meaning less fuss and a more relaxed vibe in your outdoor space. 

11. Add composite exterior siding 

Composite siding can be a terrific low-maintenance feature for your home. It is like adding the kind of exterior durability that can last over thirty years. It reduces the incidence of pests, water soaking in, and your building fading, chipping, or cracking. And this means less stress with paint touch-ups and more time for you to do other things. 

12. Invest in solar power 

Solar power is a plus for both your wallet and the planet. Picture a low-maintenance power that’s as easy on your home as it is on Mother Earth. Aside from being eco-friendly, it remains a solid money move in the long haul. According to SolarReviews, solar panels generally don’t require significant maintenance to be functional. You just let them do their thing. A bit of occasional cleaning from time to time to remove dirt, leaves, and debris is enough to enjoy the benefits.

However, consider critical factors like efficiency, durability, and cost when choosing the right solar panels. Conduct some research, talk to some solar experts, and find the match made for your home. Quality panels mean less hassle and your little contribution to making the world a bit greener. 

13. Install vinyl windows 

Vinyl windows are excellent low-maintenance features for your home. They not only bring style to your spaces but also require minimal upkeep. Unlike their wooden counterparts, vinyl windows don’t need painting or dealing with tough stains, which is a major win for your weekends. They’re resistant to the elements, meaning no worries about warping or rotting. A good wipe-down is all they need to keep shining. Plus, they’re energy-efficient, giving your home a double dose of goodness – low maintenance and lower utility bills. So, if you’re all about stress-free living, vinyl windows are a surefire way to make your home easy to maintain. 

14. Explore minimalist interior decor 

Adopting a minimalist interior is a great way to create a low-maintenance home and a serene atmosphere with clean lines and open spaces. And the best part of minimalist interiors is that fewer things mean less cleaning, repairing, and organizing, translating to having more time for the things you love. Start by scanning through your rooms. Take another look at the items and determine whether you need them, use them, or love them. This way, you can be able to determine if you should keep them or bid your farewells. 

The above are a few practical tips to build a low-maintenance home. They help you enjoy more chill vibes, less fuss, and heaps of extra time to kick back and soak in the peace. You only need to make a little time for them, after which you don’t have to worry about maintaining your home again for a long time.