Have you lived in your current home for at least 10 years and are starting to wonder what needs replaced or updated? Even if you make maintenance a priority, some things in your home are going to need updated or replaced after they’ve been used for 10 years. Here are 8 updates to consider making in your home with each decade.

1. Hot Water Heater

Even if your tank isn’t leaking (or not working) quite yet, it is usually ready for replacement every 10 years. In fact, I’ve had more than one plumber and home inspector tell me the average life span of a water heater is down to 7 years now.  It is important to make note of how old your water heater is to prevent any major issues, so be sure to check the manufacturing date and consider replacement once it has worked for 10 years.

2. Ceiling Fans

If you’re someone who has the fans in your home running often, they will likely need replaced after cooling your home for a decade. If you notice lightbulbs are burning out frequently, it is time to consider replacing your fans.

3. Carpet

The average carpet on the market today is expected to last 10 years. If you’ve got pets or a heavily trafficked home, you may want to consider replacing your carpets before you hit that 10-year mark. If you’ve got stains, tears, or hard-to-remove odors, it is probably time for an update.  If you decide to update, consider placing more of your carpet budget in upgraded padding than the carpet itself.  Higher quality padding makes your carpet feel high end it helps it last longer.

4. Dishwasher

A 10-year-old dishwasher is likely in need of replacement. A new dishwasher is going to be more energy-efficient than one from 10 years ago so it will end up saving you money over time, making the initial investment to upgrade worth it. If your dishwasher has buttons that don’t work, cracks inside, or has trouble cleaning dishes as well as it used to, those are sure signs that it’s on it’s last leg and should be replaced.

5. Washer & Dryer

If you have a working set after 10 years, you’re lucky. Many sets have a lifespan of around 8 years, so after a decade, it’s probably time to upgrade. After shopping for my own new dryer last year, I learned that more expensive doesn’t always mean better or longer lasting.  Every appliance store I went to said high-end appliances are more difficult and expensive to have repaired because they require specialized repair people who are difficult to find.  They also said some of their longer lasting models were the simpler, less expensive ones.

6. Bathroom Caulking

This is the best DIY when it comes to updating your bathroom and protecting against leaks. Re-caulking the shower, tub, and sink is an easy task and gives your bathroom a new breath of life.

7. Garbage Disposal

All blades dull over time, and with the average lifespan of a disposal at between 10-12 years, it may be a good idea to replace your disposal blade after a decade.

8. Paint

While repainting after 10 years isn’t necessary, it’s an easy and inexpensive way to give your home a fresh look. Most people don’t wait that long to repaint heavily trafficked rooms, so if it has been 10 years, it is probably time to add a new coat of paint.   You’ll feel like you have a brand new home when you’re done.

If you have any questions about the above suggestions, feel free to ask in the comments section below or email me at rachel@rachelkayla.com.  I’m always happy to help.