Hello World! Welcome Friends! Homes have a lot in common with their owners. Humans need various check-ups and tests each year. Likewise, homes need a little TLC during the year. Snow, wind, and rain cause a lot of wear and tear. Here are a few ways to prepare the house for the year ahead.
Checking the Roof
The roof has to hold up to wind and rain year-round. However, owners who live in hurricane-prone areas may need to take more precautions. For example, check to make sure the tiles are secure from the last hurricane season. Experts at Pantera Pavers recommend sealing roof tiles. There are many benefits to having the tiles sealed. Algae, mold, and mildew can’t grow on the roof afterward. Further, the process prevents the tiles’ color from fading. Indeed, sealing the roof adds years to its life. Additionally, the process increases the home’s value.
What’s in the Chimney?
Wood fires leave a residue behind called creosote. Homeowners who burn wood should have the chimney swept by early fall. Creosote is a black substance that sticks to the chimney walls and other areas. Additionally, the wind blows leaves and other debris into the chimney if it’s not capped. Burning wood in a dirty fireplace may spark a fire. A chimney fire sounds like an explosion when it starts and spreads quickly. Most homeowners cannot extinguish a chimney fire. Rather, call for help immediately.
Get the Patio Ready
Summer is coming and one needs to make sure the patio is welcoming. The patio may need a good pressure washing. Likewise, the homeowner should clean the patio furniture and cushions. Clean the cushions by mixing a teaspoon of dishwashing detergent, a quart of warm water and a tablespoon of borax. It’s a good idea to vacuum the cushions first and be sure to get in any cracks. Apply the cleaning solution and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse the cushions with the water hose and let them dry in the sun. Gas grill owners should make sure they’re clean and working.
Cleaning the Gutters
Downspouts should allow rainwater to flow freely away from the house. If not, the gutters may need cleaning. Contractors recommend cleaning gutters twice a year, in the spring and fall. Homeowners with pine trees may need to clean quarterly. Be sure to wear gloves when putting your hands in gutters. You’ll have to use a ladder so be careful. A pressure washer or water hose can be used to shoot water through the gutters. It may be safer and wiser to hire a contractor. for the job. This is especially true for those with a two or three-story home. Remember, you have to go all the way around the exterior.
Don’t Forget the Air Conditioner
Spring is the recommended time to have the air conditioner serviced. Don’t wait until summer and find out there’s a problem. It’s a lot cheaper to pay for routine maintenance than to buy a new unit. The A/C technician checks the refrigerant level and makes sure there are no leaks. The technician also checks if the unit is working at the right capacity. Homeowners save on energy bills when the unit cools efficiently.
It takes a lot of work to maintain a home throughout the year. Regular maintenance is very important. Taking these small steps saves money in the long run.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
Outdoor Additions to your Home
5 Ways to Lighten up your Room
5 Reasons to Revisit your Sewing Machine
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Toodles,
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