Home maintenance ideas for late spring
In Eastern Massachusetts, we never know when Spring will arrive. Sometimes we go straight to Summer from the cold Winter; other times we have a "wet season" between the Winter and Summer - and other years, like 2010, we have a "quasi-Spring" .
Needless to say, getting all the outdoor chores done in between the sweltering heat and humidity and cold, wet and rainy days can be quite a challenge.
Here's my "to do" list of home maintenance chores that need to be done each year. I look at this list and often wonder when the weather is going to cooperate. I guess at some point in time, my list will be fully checked off. But today, as I look out the window at the rain and wind, I'm happy just to sit indoors!
Outside the House -
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remove and clean all storm windows
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check all window screens and make sure that they are securely attached
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check all weather stripping around windows and re-caulk to keep insects out!
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inspect porches, steps and patio for cracks in concrete (note never use salt on concrete in the winter!)
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inspect and repair all walls and painted surfaces with cracks, peeling paint or wood rot
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check all fences for warping, loose pilings, broken slats or holes underneath that need to be "plugged"
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trim back all bushes away from the house; cut down tree branches dropping leaves on roof
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drain gas from snow blower and change oil and spark plug
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clean out gutters
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check the flashing around the chimney, dormers and vents
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inspect the roof for loose or damaged shingles
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replace all filters on air conditioning units
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check sprinkler heads to make sure that they are working properly, aimed correctly, and that no water is hitting the side of the house
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air out the basement
Inside the House -
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replace all batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
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replace all furnace filters and drain and clean dehumidifiers
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open attic vents
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