Domestic tasks that garner the most disdain unveiled
In a survey conducted by RACV, Victorians have admitted to neglecting essential household chores, with 48% of members admitting they do not regularly check their smoke alarms[1]. When it comes to deciding if professional tradespeople are needed, it's important to consider if the job requires specialist equipment, training, a license, is dangerous, or beyond one's skill or physical ability.
Neglecting gutter cleaning and smoke alarm maintenance in a Victorian home can lead to serious risks and consequences. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and pool near the roof and foundation, accelerating wood rot, damaging siding, and weakening the foundation of the home[2][3]. In Victorian homes, which often have cedar shingles or shakes, clogged gutters can trap moisture that encourages moss, algae, and fungi growth on the roof. This promotes wood decay, shortening the life of the roofing materials and increasing repair costs[1].
In colder climates, clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation, which damages the roof and gutters and can lead to leaks inside the home[2]. Neglecting these issues results in more frequent and costly repairs compared to regular gutter cleaning and maintenance.
Smoke alarms are critical for early fire detection. Neglecting maintenance (such as battery replacement, testing, and cleaning) can result in alarms failing to operate during a fire emergency. Without properly working smoke alarms, occupants have less warning to evacuate safely, increasing the risk of injury or death. Many insurance policies require functional smoke alarms, and neglecting maintenance could jeopardize insurance claims or violate local fire safety codes.
Victorian homes, with their older wooden structures and intricate architectural details, are more vulnerable to water damage, rot, and fire risk if maintenance is not performed diligently. The historic value and unique materials of Victorian houses mean that damage from neglect can be costly to repair and may reduce the home's heritage integrity.
Regular gutter cleaning is essential to prevent water-related structural damage in Victorian homes, while smoke alarm maintenance is critical to ensure early fire detection and occupant safety. Ideally, smoke alarms should be tested monthly and dusted and batteries changed annually. When changing the battery, the age of the smoke alarm should also be checked, and it should be replaced if it is over 10 years old. Twice a year is suggested as an ideal frequency for gutter cleaning to prevent issues.
Regardless of enjoyment, gutter cleaning is important for the integrity and safety of a home. A good habit for testing smoke alarms is to do so on the first day of the month and change the battery at the end of daylight savings. If a property has many trees with falling leaves and foliage near the roof, gutters may need to be cleaned more often.
The start of autumn is ideal for cleaning gutters before winter. Ensuring gutter cleaning is up to standard can prevent gutter damage, reduce health risks, and prevent costly repairs. On the other hand, 29% of surveyed RACV Members never clean their gutters, and 38% only clean them when they are clogged[1]. Blocked drains from dirty gutters have the potential to cause major damage.
When it comes to changing the filter in an air conditioner, 34% of survey respondents would call a professional[1]. It's essential to remember that regular maintenance is key to maintaining the safety and integrity of your home, and some tasks may require professional assistance.
References:
[1] RACV (2021). RACV survey reveals Victorians are neglecting essential household chores. [online] Available at: https://www.racv.com.au/media/press-releases/racv-survey-reveals-victorians-are-neglecting-essential-household-chores
[2] HGTV (2021). Gutter Cleaning 101: Why It's Important and How to Do It. [online] Available at: https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoors/exteriors/gutter-cleaning-101-why-its-important-and-how-to-do-it
[3] This Old House (2021). How to Clean Gutters and Downspouts. [online] Available at: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-clean-gutters-and-downspouts-20041121
Maintaining the cleanliness of gutters and ensuring smoke alarms function properly is crucial for the structural integrity, safety, and heritage value of Victorian homes. Neglecting routine gutter cleaning can lead to costly damages, while failing to maintain smoke alarms could result in the inability to detect fires early, potentially increasing risks of injury or fire-related issues.
