If you own a home or are planning to own a home, there are several maintenance items that should be checked periodically. It is usually best to schedule them for completion in both the spring and the fall. With most homes having central air conditioning, weatherproofing is as important in the summer as it is in the winter.
Gutters and downspouts - Check to make sure they are working properly, and that splash blocks are installed to drain away from the home. Running a hose into the gutter should enable you to look and mark leaks. Small leaks can be repaired with caulking, but major problems may require replacement.
Fireplace and flue - Repair cracks, and crumbling mortar. Check and replace gasket on woodstove if necessary. Special materials are needed for repairing surfaces that house flames, so ask your neighborhood hardware expert for details.
Siding - Inspect exterior caulking, and repair if necessary, taking care to match existing caulk as much as possible.
Storm windows and doors - Check for cracked or broken glass. Tighten or repair loose or damaged frames and repaint if necessary. Replace broken, worn, or missing hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers, and check for broken or missing glazing.
Weather-stripping - Inspect and repair stripping around windows and doors.
Hot-water heating system - Lubricate pump and motor; bleed air from radiators or convectors. For steam heating, check shut-off valve for leaks and drain lower water cut-off per manufacturer's instructions.
Forced warm-air heating system - Vacuum heat exchanger surfaces; clean and lubricate blower blades and motor; check fan belt tension and adjust if necessary.
Air Compressor and Coil - This should be free from debris and vegetation. Turn off the cooling system and power spray and trim vegetation back at least 6” from the unit. Clean the air coil inside your air handler.
Gas burner - Clean burners and ports.
Oil burner - Lubricate fan and motor bearings.
Thermostat - Clean heat sensor, contact points, and contacts; check accuracy and replace if necessary.
Garage Doors - Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks; tighten screws.
Foundation - Check grading for proper slope away from foundation wall.
Trees - Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from roof, siding and foundation.
Roof - Inspect roof surface, flashing, and eaves; repair if necessary.
I hope you’ve found this list helpful. If you’re doing any repairs or preventative maintenance that requires the help of professionals, I’d be happy to give you some referrals. I’m also available to answer any of your real estate or home-owning questions. You can always find more tips for homeowners on my website!
If you have questions about moving, building, selecting your first home or moving up to your next home, contact DAVID BRENTON’S TEAM.
When you are serious about moving… put our TEAM to work for you!
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