When designing your home, it is quite easy to give the highest priority to the aesthetic aspects with lesser regard to the maintenance elements which may impact you in the future. Although design should be given importance, longevity and durability must also be prioritised. In this article, we shall be discussing some tips on how you can keep maintenance costs low for your property.

Quality material

When finishing your home, you will have access to a number of options for different materials. Good research is necessary to determine the best materials and different prices. You will find that cheaper may not necessarily translate to better in the longer term. Spending a bit more might mean that you will incur less maintenance costs in the future, so it is important to perform calculations and see what would yield value for you.

Flooring

As time goes by, floors absorb damage which can be seen through scratches and broken tiles. Tiles that are made of wood, although they provide a wonderful finish and elevate the look, can be problematic as they are more prone to damage. Wood also experiences changes in size due to the difference in temperature, being likely to expand due to the heat. Choosing a durable material that can withstand accidents and hide dirt may be more beneficial in the long-term.

Waterproofing

To avoid maintenance costs related to walls and gypsum ceilings, it would be a good idea to ensure that your home is well prepared for different weather elements. Doing this spares you of future damages which may require hefty maintenance.

Managing humidity

Humidity is a common problem in Malta. With minor and consistent efforts, you can keep this problem at bay. Humidity can be combatted by opening windows and allowing air to circulate. This is especially so after one cooks or showers. A dehumidifier can also be used to minimise it.

Protecting your home from the sun

In Malta, with a Mediterranean climate and over three hundred days of sunshine, items within your home may be exposed and damaged. Take wood for example. Continued exposure to the sun’s rays can change its colour, making the style appear inconsistent over a stretch of time. To protect valuable items within your home, it might make sense to invest in good quality curtains and blinds to fend off the worst of the summer days.

Be clever with colours

White and bright colours create emphasis, however any spots and marks will be easier to see, and therefore might imply increased maintenance costs. This illustrates the importance of being clever with the use of colours and perhaps considering darker and less shinier ones for high traffic areas.

Maintenance is a must for every home, however with a proper strategy, costs can be reduced, enabling you to enjoy your property with less hassle.