2012 DISTRICT LESSON

SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF HEALTHY HOUSING

KEEP IT W

ELL-MAINTA

INED

CECP CORE COMPETENCIES: Housing and Environment

Cooperative Extension Curriculum Project:“The initial focus is curriculum for professional development competencies. The intent of the project is to increase the breadth and quality of training while using human and financial resources more efficiently.”

These are just some essential concepts that apply to Keep it Well-Maintained.

Housing Maintenance and Care• The role of routine home inspection by the consumer in

maintaining the value and structural integrity of the home.• The role of preventive maintenance in maintaining the value

and structural integrity of the home.• Roles of contractors, repair persons, and other home

construction and maintenance professionals.

http://srpln.msstate.edu/cecp/resources/core_fcs.htm

SEVEN STEPS TO A HEALTHY HOME

1. Keep it Dry

2. Keep it Clean

3. Keep it Safe

4. Keep it Well-Ventilated

5. Keep it Pest-Free

6. Keep it Contaminant-Free

7. Keep it Well-Maintained

Why do we care about home maintenance and repair?

• Protect financial investment

• Create a healthy home

• Maintain a healthy home

WHY DO WE CARE?

Inspect, clean, and repair your home routinely

Basic parts of the home• Exterior• Interior• mechanical systems

(electrical, plumbing, water heating, hvac)

Inspect

• Consider using a seasonal checklist to help you stay on track

INSPECT, CLEAN AND REPAIR YOUR HOME ROUTINELY

Home maintenance checklist. University of Georgia.http://www.fcs.uga.edu/ext/pubs/hace/HACE-E-64.pdf

Clean

• Control the source of dust and contaminants

• Create smooth and cleanable surfaces, reduce clutter

• Use effective wet-cleaning methods.

INSPECT, CLEAN, AND REPAIR YOUR HOME ROUTINELY

• Microfiber is part of effective wet cleaning, the combination of fabric and knitting works to clean effectively with fewer or no chemicals, depending on the task.

• Microfiber can get fancy! Toddy Microfiber Cloth Trio - Zin Zin, Mandarin, and Namaste. Available at Target.

• What is the difference between maintenance and repair?

• Which is more important, maintenance or repair?

INSPECT, CLEAN, AND REPAIR YOUR HOME ROUTINELY

TAKE CARE OF MINOR REPAIRS AND PROBLEMS BEFORE THEY BECOME LARGE REPAIRS AND PROBLEMS.

3 SIMPLE RULES FOR AVOIDING PROBLEMS1. Keep all Owner’ Manuals

• The manual will give you key information about the appliance, instructions for troubleshooting problems, and manufacturer contact info.

• Store all of your Owner’s Manuals in one place. That way, you don’t have to go searching when you need it!

From Missouri Cooperative Extension “Homeworks 2011”

3 SIMPLE RULES FOR AVOIDING PROBLEMS

2. Keep a Basic Tool Kit• You probably already have these tools at

home; shop in your own cabinets• Keep these gadgets in a toolbox; this way,

you won’t be searching when you need to make a quick repair!

• Pliers• Hammer• Putty Knife• Level• Adjustable Wrench• Locking Pliers• Flathead Screwdriver• Phillips Head Screwdriver• Miscellaneous Screws, Nails, and Tape

From Missouri Cooperative Extension “Homeworks 2011”

3 SIMPLE RULES FOR AVOIDING PROBLEMS3. Know when to repair or when an expert is

needed

• If you are not able to do the work yourself

• If you are concerned that the problem is causing or can cause health concerns

• If you have a large infestation…

• If you are feeling overwhelmed …

• Any other thoughts?

TOOL: Use a microfiber cloth in conjunction with this green cleaning recipe to maintain your home while reducing chemical use.FRAGRANT KITCHEN CLEANSER

• 2 tbsp. white vinegar

• 2 pints water

• 4 drops essential oil (lavender, tea tree oil, lemon, lemongrass, or rosemary)

• Combine ingredients in spray bottle and use as a final rinse after cleaning kitchen surfaces. Store in a cool, dark place.

Recipe taken from the University of GeorgiaGreen Cleaning curriculum

THANK YO

U!

Keep

it w

ell-m

ainta

ined