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Post date: Mar 20, 2013 2:19:08 AM
Spring is just around the corner. It`s time to start thinkimg about some home maintenance. Regular maintenance protects your home investment, extends the life of systems and can reduce your operating costs. It makes sense to do as much home maintenance as you can to save yourself money and keep your home in tip top shape. Below are some suggested maintenance activities:
1. Eaves and Downspouts
Clean debris from eavestroughs and downspouts. Check for loose or leaky eavestroughs, check that they are clean and free of leaves, branches and other debris that could cause them to clog or overflow. Make sure downspouts drain 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation Poor drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space.
2. Air Conditioning
Remove the cover and schedule service (power on if needed). Check the exterior unit coils and clean as required. Clean coils will allow the AC unit to operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels.
3. Furnace Humidifier
Turn off the power and water; drain and clean filters. Close the bypass damper at the furnace on units with central air conditioning.
4. Roof and Shingles
From the ground, use binoculars to examine the roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter. Shingles that are cracked, buckled, loose or are missing granules will need to be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys should be checked and repaired by a qualified roofing contractor. If your roof looks like the one in the photo above, it`s time to budget for roof replacement.
5. Clothes Dryer Exhaust Vent
Clean the clothes dryer exhaust vent and space under the dryer. Remove all lint, dust, and pieces of material. Check the exterior vent cover and replace any broken or missing louvers. A clogged vent can reduce your dryer’s efficiency and create a fire hazard.
6. Heat Recovery Ventilator (also known as HRV)
Clean and/or replace the heat recovery ventilator filyrtd as needed. The filters should be cleaned at least every two months. Also check the drain line is free of blockages. Check your user manual if you are not sure how to do this.
7. Driveway, Walkways, Patios
Check and repair any cracked, broken or uneven driveways, walkways and patios to provide a safe level walking surface.
8. Window and Door Trim
Check the trim around windows and doors. Repair or paint them before the spring rains can do more damage to the exposed wood and openings. Repair loose or missing caulk from around windows and doors.
9. Exterior Hose Bibs (faucets)
Check the outside hose bibs (faucets) for freeze damage. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, there is a good chance that the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be repaired or replaced. While you're at it, check the garden hose for dry rot. (do this only after all danger of frost has passed)
10. Foundation
Examine the foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture, and repair as required. If cracks in the foundation exist, routine caulking won't do the job. You'll want to hire a foundation specialist, who can employ a two-part epoxy injection system that will bond those cracks chemically depending on the size of the crack.
11. Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, ensure sump pump is operating properly before the spring thaw sets in. Ensure discharge pipe is connected and allows water to drain 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation. Having a backup ready is a good plan.
Once you've finished, sit back, relax, and feel proud of the great work you've done. Inspected by 42 - Home Inspections also provides maintenance inspections. If you want a detailed to do list. Give Barry a call today at 613-799-3698.
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