Saturday, March 14, 2015

Springtime Renovations

House in children's handsSpring has finally made an entrance in the Pacific Northwest. The sun is shining brighter, and the weather is getting ever warmer. Through the winter your home has endured harsh weather, and maintenance may be needed. This is the right time to check your home’s exterior, make yearly updates, and prepare for any upcoming renovations. Here’s what to look at:
Gutters and Downspouts: Check that there are no bends or leaks. Also ensure that there is no excess buildup. Leaves and other debris can get stuck and cause blockages. Your gutters should flow without puddling, and your downspouts should drain away from the foundation.
Roof: Your roof needs to be checked for cracks, dips, and other wear and tear. A single winter should not cause significant damage, however if your roof hasn’t been inspected in a while it’s definitely best to do so.
Paint: Harsh weather can give your paint a beating. Take a quick walk around the house and look for peeling, cracking, or bubbling. If the winter caused any damage to your house’s paint job, you’ll need to have it redone. Paint is more than an aesthetic addition: It is an additional layer of protection.
Low Spots: Walk through your yard, and check for any dips or low spots. Rain buildup can cause minor flooding, which has the potential to reach the foundation and cause more significant damage. You can have any low spots filled with compacted soil to prevent spring rain from becoming a problem.
Hoses: The cold weather can cause freeze damage. Check your hose faucets now, so that by the time you are ready to wash your car and turn on sprinklers, your system is ready to go. If you notice the water pressure seems low, there is a possibility the pipe itself will need to be replaced.
HVAC: You’ve gone months without needing the air conditioning on. You may not need it now, but as the weather gets warmer you will want it working properly. Call a heating and cooling professional to have the system checked and serviced. While looking at air conditioning, a professional can also check your heating and ventilation systems. Even if everything seems to work, yearly maintenance is suggested.
This checklist will help you transition your home from the cold, wet seasons into the warmer, dryer ones. We know you are excited for the sunny days to return: Help your house be ready, also! For contractors that can help with maintenance, inspection and repairs, visit us at responsiblecontractors.com. We know just the right people to help your home!

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