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Maintenance Tips
Exterior Maintenance:
Power Wash Your Driveway & Walkways
Use a pressure washer to remove the dirt, grime, and mold that has built up over the past year. But before you start, make sure you check for cracks that need to be filled, or areas that need to be weeded!
Trim Your Trees
Branches that have grown too close to your home or power line may end up becoming a huge problem down the road. Fallen branches account for around $1 billion in home damages every year.
Examine Your Roof for Damage & Staining
Make sure to check your roof for any missing shingles, signs of leaking or cracking, or any staining. If you notice dark streaks on your roof, chances are that it is just algae, which in that case the only harm is cosmetic. However, if you see moss on your roof, you should clean it right away. Moss can cause the asphalt shingles on your roof to lift, curl, and blow off of your roof when the winds are strong. To clean algae and moss, apply a solution of equal amounts of bleach and water, and then rinse after about 15 minutes. Do not power wash or scrub; that could cause damage to the shingles.
Repair & Reseal Your Outdoor Woodwork
Whether it's your fence, handrails, or your deck, they are all prone to decay and rot. Use a power washer to revitalize the weathered wood, and then use an exterior wood oil to help preserve and prolong the life of your exterior's woodwork.
Run Outdoor Faucets
Test all of your outdoor faucets. While you are letting them all run, place your finger over the faucet opening. If the flow of water stops, you may need to have your pipes inspected. Before you call a plumber, make sure you look for any signs of leaking.
Interior Maintenance:
Replace or Clean Your Dryer Vent
At least once a year, make sure you thoroughly clean the lint out of your dryer vent, or even replace the vent. Lint buildups are one of the leading
causes of house fires!
Check Your Attic & Basement
Look for signs of moisture in your attic, and in your basement that you may not have noticed before. Take some time to look for leaks for staining. Odd smells like mildew or mold should be addressed right away. Find the source of the moisture issue and seal it off to prevent serious water damage or mold issues.
Flush Out Your Water Heater
Every year, be sure to have your water heater drained. Draining your water heater flushes out minerals or debris in the system, making sure it runs
more efficiently.
Check Your Indoor Hoses
Regularly check for signs of cracking or leaking in the hoses to your washer, toilets, dehumidifier, refrigerator and ice maker. These hoses should also be replaced once every 3 to 5 years.
Seal Air Leaks in Your Home
Sealing up a drafty home can save up to 20% on your heating bills. Look for deteriorated weatherstripping and saps in the caulk around your windows, doors, and any entry points for your electrical, cable and gas lines. If you think that there is an issue with your home's weatherstripping, close the door or the window, light a candle, and hold it near the frame. If the flame flickers at any point along the frame of your door or window, you have an air leak and should replace the weatherstripping. Do not let the flame get near anything flammable!