Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Healthy Start

Most New Year’s resolutions have
some kind of health angle —
work out more, eat right and
so on — so why not give your home the
same kind of revamp? Resolve to keep
your home healthier this year with this
seasonal checklist.


Spring


Clean your gutters. Backed-up gutters
can wreak havoc on siding and causeflooding. Scoop out leaves and debris with
a trowel or hire professionals to do it.


Check your roof. Wintry weather may
have damaged the surface, and the first big
rainstorm, left unchecked, could cause significant
problems. Replace shingles as needed.


If your fireplace got a workout during
the winter months, give it a clean sweep.
Call in the experts to inspect and clean
creosote buildup.


Summer


Walk around your house to check for
unsealed spots where squirrels or mice
could sneak in. Look carefully for termites
or ants, too. Inside, check your attic
and make sure egress points are sealed
tightly.


Get ready for the warm season by
giving any outdoor equipment (pools,
swing sets, etc.) a thorough, top-to-bottom
cleaning.


Fall


Ensure your furnace is in prime shape
for the cold months ahead, and change all
the air filters in your home.


Make sure your house is adequately
sealed. Apply weather stripping (such as
tape, felt, foam or vinyl tubing) around
doors or windows.


Trim branches near your home or roof
to prevent damage when wintry weather
hits.


Winter


Drain and insulate outdoor pipes to
prevent freezing.


Check for damaged sidewalk, driveway
or stairs, and repair them before the first
snow to avoid dangerous mishaps.

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