As you’ve likely guessed, some home repairs are more costly than others. While it may be cost-effective to patch a few missing shingles on a roof, replacing a heating system or repairing a cracked foundation can lead to some major expenses. Whether you’re looking to replace an air conditioner, install a new furnace, or fix some ductwork, it’s important to know the best way to handle some of your repairs.
However, it’s important to remember that frugal and cheap aren’t the same thing. While some of these repairs may be expensive, you also need to understand that they can be critical for your comfort and quality of living. Here are some of the most expensive repairs of the past year.
Foundation Repairs
It’s a homeowner’s nightmare when there’s foundational damage to the home. Depending on your local climate, as your foundation heats from warm air and cools, the concrete expands and contracts. This can lead to cracks, warping, and even bowed basement walls. In colder areas with a lot of cool air, it can affect your foundation drastically. When you start to add up the repair costs, it can easily climb into the tens of thousands. Unless you have an emergency fund set aside for this exact issue, it can be problematic. You may need to take a long look at your personal finances when you’re preparing for a foundation repair.
Heating and Cooling Costs
Your HVAC system could be standing between you and financial success. Whether you have a heat pump or some other type of heating unit, it can cost a great deal of money. For an HVAC, you likely have an outdoor unit. Your boiler, gas furnace, or heat pump system is more often an indoor unit. You’ll need to use a credit card or look to finance a heat exchange, ground source heater, or pump in some cases. Plus, you’ll want to spend more on a type of heat pump that prioritizes energy efficiency.
Depending on the energy source, a ground source heat pump or heat pump system that uses less energy may cost hundreds or thousands more. If you don’t want to check your thermostat for indoor air constantly and outdoor air temperatures, you’re going to need to shell out more money for a heat source with a good seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Higher efficiency is a must, and any pro will tell you as much.
Roof Replacements
Beyond your outdoor unit, oil furnace, and efficient heating, roof repairs can definitely eat into your retirement plan. If you need some tips for financial success, don’t let your roof get out of hand before you consider repairs. This could lead to a complete roof replacement, which usually costs thousands of dollars. If you notice missing shingles, bad vents, or your roof buckling when the temperature drops, you need to determine how much money you can set aside for repairs in your savings account.
Water Line Damage
Water lines are made up of many different parts. In cold weather or freezing air conditions, pipes can crack or even burst. A great way to prevent this is through regular maintenance. However, if you do spot some breakage, you need to contact a pro as soon as possible. Waterline damages can greatly impact your financial future and your financial goals if they aren’t addressed quickly.
Chimney and Fireplace Fixes
If you rely on a fireplace as a heat source to combat cold outdoor temperatures, it’s important to understand that it can be a liability. Even when the outside air feels like you’re in a freezer, you need to ensure you take care of your chimney and fireplace during the winter months. You’ll also want to ensure you’re prioritizing your system’s energy savings, whether it relies on a unit of electricity or gas. Review your financial situation to ensure you don’t have to go through a similar process as a foundation repair.
While most home repairs are costly, there are a few that really stand out. Stay on top of maintenance, and you’ll be good to go.
