A vacation home provides an easy getaway and a potential source of income. However, since it isn’t your main residence, maintenance can slip your mind and lead to damage. Keep the property in top shape by incorporating these steps into your schedule.

How to Care for a Second Home

1. Clean the Gutters

Gutters protect your house from water damage. Clean them at least twice a year to prevent clogs. Fall and spring are ideal times for cleaning since trees shed more debris in these seasons.

Also, install gutter guards, which will keep large particles out of the system. These add-ons will reduce the need for maintenance throughout the year.

2. Protect the Siding

Mold spores feed on dust and dirt that accumulate on your siding. Clean the material with a hose or power-washer to reduce the risk of proliferation. Spores also thrive in moist and shady environments, so trim back overgrown trees around the home.

Then, check the exterior paint job. If surfaces still look dull after cleaning, add a fresh coat. Paint not only increases the visual appeal of the property, but also protects siding from moisture and pests.

3. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at least once a month. Have people stand in various rooms or walk through the house as the test sound goes off; you should hear the alarm from every part of the house. If a unit produces weak sounds, replace its batteries.

Typically, carbon monoxide detectors last around 5 years, while smoke detectors last up to 10 years. Keep track of their ages to replace them within these time frames.

4. Check for Water Damage

A moist and dark environment can lead to mold, which causes respiratory allergies for many people. Since vacation homes typically stay empty for weeks at a time, leaks can go unaddressed and lead to damage.

To prevent mold, visit your property after the area experiences severe weather. Examine the attic, walls, and ceilings for soft spots and stains, which could indicate roof leaks. Check windows and reapply caulk or weatherstripping if you notice moisture around the edges.

Investing in a homeowners insurance policy from Flathead Farm Mutual Insurance Company will also protect your vacation home. Based in the Flathead Valley, their knowledgeable insurance agents help clients throughout Montana find the policies that fit their needs. For your convenience, they handle all claims locally. Call a local agent today to learn more about homeowners insurance or visit us  online.