Winter is ending, which means it's time to tune up your home in preparation for the warm months. Here are a few important tasks to complete. If you are not comfortable performing any of these tasks, contact a general contractor or local handyman service to do the job.
Air intakes
Clean the fresh air/make-up air intakes on the outside of your home, as they are often clogged by late spring. These openings are generally between 0 and 10 feet above the ground, and have a screen or mesh covering to keep out insects and animals. It is these screens that get clogged and need cleaning to allow the flow of combustion air for your furnace, water heater, etc. Clean with a vacuum or stiff-bristled brush.
Dryer vent
Clean out your dryer vent to avoid fire hazards caused by lint and to maximize the efficiency of your dryer. Purchase the correct diameter brush and push and pull it through the venting. Use a leaf blower to force excess particles out of the vent once it has been brushed. If you have to disconnect the gas line, call a pro to do the job.
Gutters
Inspect and clean out your gutters and downspouts. Remove any debris, and make sure the downspouts are tightly fitted and draining away from your home. You can use a hose to remove debris, if the debris is not too heavy.
Faucets & hoses
Inspect your faucets for leaks the first day you turn the water on after the winter. A leaking outdoor faucet can cost you hundreds of dollars in one summer. Internal washers are easily replaceable, and if the faucet is leaking from the stem, just tighten the nut at the bottom of the stem. If it continues to leak from the stem, the packing needs to be replaced. Check your hoses for leaks and replace the washers in them. Any hardware or home-improvement store will have the parts that you need to do this chore.
Deck
It?s much easier and cheaper to maintain your deck on a yearly basis than to replace it. Start with a good cleaning using a proper cleaning solution and a power washer. It is highly recommended that you seal the deck at least every other year with a high-quality stain or sealer.
Garage door
Inspect the chain, belt or screw on your opener(s) for sagging and lubrication. They should be tight and well-greased. Check to see that all the wheels that run along the track are intact and functioning correctly. Also check to see that your "safety eyes" (if you have them) are free of debris and aligned properly.
Exterior
Walk around your home and look at the roof to see if you can find missing shingles, flashing, etc. Also, walk around and check your siding any for missing, cracked, damaged or loose pieces.
Windows
Cleaning your windows in the spring will instantly provide results. Remember to clean both sides of the glass. It is very important to clean the channels and drains on double-hung windows, as they clog quickly.
Misc
Inspect your outdoor outlets to ensure that the covers close securely, the gaskets are intact and the cover and box are secure to the side of the home.
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William Kettle owns and manages William Kettle Construction, a residential construction and maintenance company. He is also serving in the U.S. Navy as a builder chief petty officer in the world-renowned Seabee?s. He has been doing both since 1987. www.williamkettleconstruction.com
