There are several basic items to check when examining and maintaining the finer details of a home:

Heaters and boilers:  Check the maintenance records of the unit to see if it was serviced annually. Like most mechanical objects, regular maintenance is the key to long life. Heating systems last longer in the presence of well-maintained windows, extra insulation, and weather stripping and caulking.

Water damage:  Windows and doors should be regularly painted and caulked to prevent external water damage. Internally, water can be the biggest troublemaker in bathrooms. Tile grout and shower caulking should be secure and watertight to ensure that there is no damage to the wall. Proper maintenance can eliminate the need to eventually replace damaged materials.

Appliances:  Follow the manufacturer's directions and pay special attention to the refrigerator (vacuum the coils for more efficient cooling) and dishwasher (frequently clean the food trap).

Bathrooms:  Besides maintaining the grout and caulk, make sure there is a vent to the outside. As an alternative to separate tiles, vinyl floor covering can prevent water seepage.

Doors:  Exterior doors should be painted periodically to deter rust and rot. Weather stripping should also be secure and fit tightly to prevent heat loss and water entry.

Foundation:  Surface water should be diverted as far as possible away from the house. Good diversion practices include gutters and downspouts with splash blocks, which should take water at least three feet away from the house, and proper soil grading away from the home.

Heat pumps and central air conditioning:  Annual service should include checking the thermostats, switches, bearings, and refrigerant levels. A dirty filter or coil compromises efficiency, increases strain on the fan motors, and ultimately shortens the life of the unit.

Siding:  Wood siding should be regularly painted and sealed to reduce the risk of mildew, warping, rotting, and cracking. Aluminum and vinyl siding should be cleaned regularly.

Septic system:  Pumping the septic system is absolutely necessary to maintain a functional system and prolong life. Depending on the number of people using the system, it should be pumped every one to three years.

Water heater:  The heater should be drained according to the manufacturer's recommendation. Older units should be wrapped to increase efficiency, but this is not necessary with newer models.

Roof:  Roofs in the South last only 75% as long as those in the North due to higher temperatures. The sun causes more damage to roofs than rain or snow. To increase the life expectancy of a roof, consider installing soffit and ridge vents, choosing lighter-colored shingles, and increasing the pitch of the slope. A thermostatically controlled roof fan can also help to reduce heat and maintain a cooler temperature in the home during the warmer months.