Spring is a great time to complete a routine maintenance check on your most valuable asset -- your home. The harsh freeze/thaw conditions in our area have most likely taken a toll on your home's exterior during the winter months. We recommend making a three part list consisting of:

1. Need to repair. 2. Need to clean. 3. Need professional help.

The following checklist will help guide you through your inspection and ready your home for the summer.

1. Decks, Driveways & Patios: Check all decking, stairs, and railings for deterioration and repair as necessary. Be sure to verify that all underlying structural supports and fasteners are in good condition. Open wood decks and fences should be treated every 2-4 years, depending on level of exposure to the elements. We recommend hiring a professional to power wash, strip, and refinish your decking with an exterior grade semitransparent stain and sealer. Inspect your hard-surface driveways and patios for cracking or settling. We recommend professional lifting or replacement of all areas that have experienced severe settling of more than ½". This is also a good time to add a fresh coat of surface sealer to any concrete materials. This will protect against staining from leaves and seasonal berries and reduce the future effects of winter salt.

2. HVAC System: Clean and inspect your air conditioning condenser unit to be sure all components are functioning properly. Be sure your A/C electrical breaker is in the 'on' position and verify that your coolant level is stable and free of leaks. Verifying the system is cooling before it is needed will prevent any discomfort when temperatures increase and a problem is discovered. This is also a great opportunity to change out furnace filters and clean interior ductwork. We recommend using a programmable thermostat along with the fan function to reduce stress to your system. This will create a more efficient environment and reduce long term utility costs.

3. Landscaping & Sprinklers: Cut back and trim any overgrown trees and bushes. Ornamental grasses should be cut 2-3" above the new growth and dead tree limbs should be cut 1-2' from the branch collar. Re-mulch landscape beds as necessary, removing any old mulch and debris. To allow for proper drainage, be sure the level of planting beds start approximately 4-6" below the top of foundation and slopes away from the home at a rate of 1"/ft. Basement flooding is often a result of high bed levels which cause water to flow over the top of the foundation wall and into the home. Check any underground sprinkler system and verify that all heads are working properly. This is a good opportunity to check all site drainage to be sure water runoff is functioning as designed.

4. Caulking: Inspect all exterior penetrations for deteriorating or failed caulk including siding, windows, doors, lighting, vents, exterior pipes, and ducts. This is also a great opportunity to clean out your dryer vent and change out any exterior light bulbs that may have failed during the winter months.

5. Gutters & Downspouts: Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts as necessary. Check for any areas that have separated or pulled away from your home. If possible, we recommend running a hose on the roof to check for proper gutter pitch and drainage. If any leaks are discovered use an epoxy or caulk to seal the leaks. If your home's downspouts extend below grade be sure all connections are secure and discharge points are free from debris.

6. Roofing & Siding: Use a pressure washer to remove any mold growth or dirt buildup from the surface of your roof, siding, and trim. Be sure to adjust the sprayer pressure so as not to damage the material surface. Check roofing material for cracking, curling, or missing shingles. As a safety concern, we strongly recommend having a professional inspect your roof if damage is visible from the ground. Check all wood surfaces for weathering, damage, or failure. If paint is peeling or cracked, be sure to scrape away all loose paint and sand smooth prior to repainting. Always use an appropriate exterior grade primer and paint -- this will allow for a longer life and better protection from the elements.

7. Window & Door Screens: Remove and store any storm glass and install window screens as necessary. Be sure to inspect screens for holes or wind damage and give them a thorough cleaning prior to installation. Screen frames can easily be repaired and rescreened with material purchased from your local home improvement store. Take this opportunity to inspect your window glass for condensation buildup between the panes. This may be a sign that the glass seal has deteriorated and the thermal pane needs replacement.

A routine maintenance check will help keep your home clean and prepare it for the warm summer months ahead. If you have questions or need professional advice about any of the repairs listed above, feel free to contact us.