Stop Avoiding and Start Doing!!

So the New Year came and went and all the while you ate too much, spent time with family members you rarely see and received a few more sweaters & shirts you will never wear. There's probably a good chance that you didn't pay any attention to the house you were in and all the repairs that it's been needing for a VERY long time.

Don't worry, that's why I'm here, to point out the little things about your home before they become BIG problems down the road. When I set out to establish goals and plans (I don't use the term "resolutions") for my year, I always include a section for my home. This causes me to actually think about what I want and need instead of "Finding" a problem later. This year I am finishing a personal project, building a flagstone patio, with my two sons. As some of you may know, a project with children is always an interesting experience, so planning it is key. In your situation, you may not know what you need or when you need to do it, so I made you a quick check list to follow at different times throughout the year.

The Home Check List

Monthly

·        - Garbage Disposal-clean out with hot water and natural cleaning solution like baking soda

·         -Clean out debris in all sink drains and stoppers

·         -Change the air filter in your HVAC return

·         -Wipe down any debris in the Range Hood

Every 3 Months

·         -Vacuum out the floor grills from the HVAC lines

·       -  Clean out debris from any drain grates outside

·         -Visual inspection of the exterior of the home for any noticeable issues (water spots on siding or brick, debris     backups in gutters, tree limbs on roof, etc.)

Spring

·        - Check Batteries in all smoke detectors and replace as needed

·        - Inspect toilets for any leaking

·        - Re-Caulk around bathtubs, windows, showers as needed

·        - Inspect roof for any damage, debris or missing shingles

·         -Clean out gutters and downspouts to avoid backups and water damage

·         -Inspect any storage sheds, barns or outbuildings on the property

·        - Inspect electrical panel for any frayed or damaged wiring

·         -Check hoses on the clothes washer for wear and tear. Replace as needed

·         -Clean out Clothes dryer vent to remove all lint

·         -Inspect plumbing under sinks for any leaks. Tighten pipes or call plumber to repair any damage or leaking

Fall

·         -Inspect outdoor water spigots, disconnect hoses and protect with insulation for the winter

·         -Inspect storm windows and storm doors. Re-caulk and Weatherstrip if needed

·         -Inspect siding or brick exterior for staining or cracking mortar. Clean or repair as needed

·         -Check Batteries in all smoke detectors and replace as needed

·         -Inspect roof for any damage, debris or missing shingles

·         -Clean out gutters and downspouts to avoid backups and water damage

·         -Check hoses on the clothes washer for wear and tear. Replace as needed

·         -Clean out Clothes dryer vent to remove all lint

·         -Inspect plumbing under sinks for any leaks. Tighten pipes or call plumber to repair any damage or leaking

·         -Check Thermostat: clean contact points, heat sensor, replace to digital thermostat if needed

·         -HVAC Tuneup

·         -Inspect Chimney for any cracks, debris or bird nests 

F   Follow this Check List and you will save yourself a whole bunch of trouble. If you need help with anything, call us at 615.385.3210.....It's what we do!