Spring is Here, A Good Time for a Home Maintenance Checkup

With better weather on the horizon there hasn't been a better time to walk the inside & outside of your home. Identifying & providing regular maintenance on your home can prolong the average life of your home & it's products. Deferred maintenance is often the reason for more costly problems so an ounce of prevention can be worth a pound of cure.

GROUNDS

• Check condition of driveways and walks.
• Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for blockage.
• Check fencing conditions and gate operation.
• Check retaining walls for cracks, bulges and leaning.
• Check all landscaping; trim all bushes and trees.
• Check all out-buildings, porches and patios.
• Check for proper grading and drainage throughout property.
• Check lawn sprinkler system operation.
• Check all equipment in preparation of pool opening.
• Check (during rainstorm) for drainage away from foundation.

SIDING AND CHIMNEYS

• Check all surfaces for damage or deterioration.
• Check caulking at all joints.
• Treat or paint worn or exposed wood components.
• Check condition of masonry chimneys and vents.
• Check foundation for settlement, cracks and spalling.

WINDOWS AND DOORS

• Check for damaged screens or broken glass.
• Check weatherstripping, caulking, and window putty.
• Check for frame decay or damage.
• Clean and install screens.

ROOFS

• Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
• Check fascia and soffit for signs of leaks/moisture build-up.
• Check all flashings for fit and seals.
• Check television antenna or satellite dish mounting.
• Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.
• Clean fungi or algae from roof surfaces.

PORCH AND PATIO

• Check all wooden supports and railing components.
• Check flooring for wear or damage.
• Apply preservative to wood decking and components.
• Seal patios at foundation.

INSECT INFESTATION

• Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.
• Check for insect damage.
• Arrange for treatment or repair.

INTERIOR AREAS

• Check attic, ceilings and walls for evidence of leaks.
• Check ventilation openings for nests, or other blockage.
• Check condition of all painted or finished walls and trim.
• Check carpet and flooring for wear or damage.
• Check condition of all stairs and railings.
• Check condition and operation of all windows and doors.
• Test smoke/fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

SLAB/FOUNDATION

• Check for cracks or breaks in wall.
• Check for evidence of water infiltration or dampness.
• Check for decaying sills and window frames.
• Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.
• Check for changes in framing conditions.
• Check crawlspace ventilation, insulation, and vapor retarders.
• Test, clean and lubricate sump pump.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

• Assess power distribution for overloads issues.
• Check condition of incoming service wire and supports.
• Test circuit breakers and label all circuits at panel.
• Test arc-fault and ground-fault circuit-interrupters (regularly).
• Check circuits for over-fusing.
• Check all receptacles and switches.
• Check operation of vent and/or attic fans.

HEATING/COOLNG SYSTEMS

• Follow manufacturer instructions for HVAC systems.
• Inspect and install room air conditioners.
• Clean all serviceable elements of heating system.
• Change or clean heating system filter (regularly).
• Check venting systems for corrosion and leaks.
• Clean and de-energize humidifier.
• Check and lubricate attic fan.

PLUMBING SYSTEM

• De-winterize and check exterior faucets.
• Check well and components.
• Check septic tanks and systems.
• Check water and waste piping for leaks.
• Check hot water supply temperature.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for water heater.

KITCHEN/BATHROOMS

• Check condition and operation of all appliances.
• Clean and change range fan filters.
• Check all toilet flush mechanisms.
• Check and repair all leaking faucets and valves.
• Caulk and grout tile at tubs and showers.
• Clean aerators and showerhead.

It may seem like a lot but in reality anything you do, no matter how great or small, is going to add to the life expectancy of your home & it's components. Go ahead, have some fun & improve your property at the same time.