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.
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