If you're a homeowner, you know that maintaining your home can get pretty expensive over time.  Each month you should do a little bit here and there that will save time and effort down the road!  Here are some tips for the month of April:

• Driveways - If you have an asphalt driveway, take some time to check for cracks.  If you do have cracks, you should seal them now.  April & May can get pretty wet with rain, and you don't want that water soaking into the surface.
• Gutters - With the rain that is sure to be coming, make sure your gutters are clean of debris.  You want the rain to flow freely through the gutters and downspouts to keep water away from the home.  If they are clogged, the rain may soak in around your foundation which may cause problems.
• Basement - After a heavy rainstorm, check your basement for wet spots or dampness.  If you have a sump pump, make sure it's in working order before you get flooded out!
• Heater Filters - Probably one of the easiest things to do, but often overlooked, is replacing your furnace filter.  It only costs a few dollars, and will help maintain the quality of the air in your home
• Smoke Detectors - Another simple thing is to check the batteries in your smoke detectors.  It's amazing how many homes I've seen with smoke detectors in the wrong spots or without batteries.  This little device could save your life!  Please, put a battery in it and make sure it works!