Home Maintenance Tips
SPRING / SUMMER MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST TIPS
HVAC checkup... It's a good idea to have your system cleaned and serviced before air conditioning season arrives. Always use a HVAC professional for this. Roof inspection... Winter snow and ice can damage shingles which could lead to leaks. You can inspect your roof with binoculars. Check gutters... Ice buildup during the winter months can cause gutters to loosen and sag. Gutters that don't drain properly may create drainage issues. Inspect patio and driveway... Cracks and buckles caused by freezing temperatures should be repaired before they become a major issue. Check seals around doors and windows... Check for drafts again. Cracked caulking should be touched up to prevent the loss of cooled air all summer. Trim around outdoor HVAC units... Grass and weeds growing around the units can affect their efficiency and could even cause expensive damage. Inspect your decks and stairs... If the wood is beginning to show its age, summer can be a good time to apply a coat of paint. Tap down any protruding nails and sand any rough areas to ensure safety. Check siding... Warm weather is ideal for pressure washing your vinyl siding. Pay close attention to each piece of siding as you clean to see that it is properly attached. Inspect skirting on manufactured homes... Look for cracks or holes in skirting and concrete ribbon that may need repair. Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors... In addition to a monthly test, you should change batteries every six months. Carpenter Bees... Carpenter bees will look for any unfinished wood. Make sure all decks and sheds are painted to prevent infestation.
FALL / WINTER MAINTENANCE CHECKLISTHose bibs... Turn off outside hose bibs. If you don't have frost-free exterior faucets, shut off their water supply and drain the lines to prevent freezing, cover hose bib. Roof inspection... Check roof for missing or damaged shingles. Inspect skirting... Look for cracks or holes in skirting and concrete ribbon that may need repair. (Prevents animals from nesting over winter). Check gutters... Remove all debris that can trap snow and water during the winter. Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors... In addition to a monthly test, you should change batteries every six months. Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher... October is fire prevention month, let’s keep everyone safe and protected. Leaf pickup starts October thru November... Clean-up any leaves, sticks and debris that collect in your area before the snow season starts.
FREEZING PIPES PREVENTIONDo not run the risk of water pipes freezing when temperatures plummet... A properly functioning heat tape is the best way to protect your pipes The average lifespan of a heat tape is 5-7 years, but it is important that you check your heat tape each fall to be sure it is functioning properly. Always use a professional plumber or contractor for this.
The DIY Consumer Home Inspection Checklist was created by a professional home inspector for home owners, landlords, and first-time home buyers. It can be used as a home maintenance checklist to help keep your property in top shape, or as a pre-inspection checklist before hiring a professional contractor. The DIY Consumer Home Inspection Checklist is like the pros use, but revised to be shorter and easier to understand in layman’s terms. The seven-page report is easy to use; just follow the topics, check off the appropriate boxes, and fill in any notes. YOUR DONE! Now you have a checklist report to help you make a sound decision if any repairs are needed, and it is time to call a certified inspector or professional contractor.