Mr. Handyman has put together a list of great tips for helping us get our homes back in order during the spring months for me to share with you. (I don’t know about you, but I am so a list person. If it isn’t on a list, I forget to do it. So, a home maintenance checklist is something that gets me excited.)
Take Care of Your Gutters
a.. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water damage.
b.. Make sure they are cleaned, repaired or replaced if necessary for the impending spring showers and thunderstorms.
Power Wash to Start the Year With a Clean Outside
a.. Porches, decks and siding can benefit from a super wash.
b.. Removing grime, mildew, sap and other materials can extend the life of your home’s exterior materials.
Maintain Decks to Be Sure You Have a Safe and Fun Summer
a.. Inspect deck thoroughly, including underneath.
b.. Moisture damage near the joints is a common problem in decks that can result in structural problems.
c.. Check steps and railings to make sure they are safe.
Make Sure Cooling Units Are Ready for Summer
a.. Change filters on existing air conditioning window units for efficient operation.
b.. Programmable thermostats can be installed to regulate energy use.
Keep Your Water Heater Well Maintained
a.. Draining sediment regularly can extend the life of the water heater.
A few more from me:
b.. Check for leaks and rusty spots.
c.. Be sure the thermostat isn’t set too high to avoid having anyone accidentally burn him or herself. (Way too many articles about babies suffering from series burns after bathtub accidents recently. Please, please check your hot water temperature.)
Organize Your Outdoor Items
a.. Shelving and storage can be installed in garages to help organize spring tools.
Caulk It Up
a.. Check the caulk around windows and doors.
b.. Caulk can help to lower energy costs and keep the house cool.
Photo: SXC
Post from: Blisstree