Home Maintenance:Summer
A key to protecting the investment you've made in your home is by following a regular maintenance schedule. By performing preventative maintenance on an on-going basis, you'll avoid many of the big ticket repair items that can lower the value of your home.

Here are helpful checklists for monthly and summer maintenance.

Monthly

  • Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.
  • Check the filters on your heating and cooling systems. Be sure to clean and change according to the manufacturer's schedule.
  • If you have a humidifier or an electronic air filter, check these as well.
  • Check faucets for drips. Check plumbing for leaks.

Summer

Inside
  • Deep clean carpets and rugs.
  • Vacuum air duct grills and bathroom fan grill.
  • Inspect your dryer's lint duct. Disconnect it from the dryer and vacuum out lint from the duct and areas surrounding your dryer.
  • Inspect windows and doorways. Replace damaged caulking and weather stripping.
  • Have a thorough termite inspection if you don't currently have a termite service. Follow up on any treatment and repair recommendations. It will save you money in the long run.
Basement
  • Check pipes for condensation or dripping.
  • Check the basement floor trap to be sure it contains water. Refill as necessary.
Outside
  • Inspect driveway and walk ways. Make repairs as needed.
  • Remove or prune any plants, shrubs or trees that penetrate the foundation, siding or brick.
  • Check exterior siding and trim for signs of damage. Clean, repair and/or replace as needed.
  • Check for and seal holes that could be an entry point for pests and rodents.
  • Make a visual inspection of your roof (or hire a professional to do so). Note the general condition. Sagging could be a sign of structural damage and should be checked by a professional. Inspect all roof flashings, checking for signs of cracking or leakage. Replace broken or damaged shingles as needed.
  • Inspect the chimney cap and caulking.
  • Sweep out chimneys connected to a fireplace or wood burning appliance. Inspect the chimney for end-of-season problems.
Garage
  • Inspect driveway and walk ways. Make repairs as needed.
  • Test garage door to insure it is opening properly and hardware is secure.
  • Lubricate garage door hardware. If you have a garage door opener, lubricate automatic garage door opener motor, chain, etc. and ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is properly adjusted.
William Hall|Alpha Valuations| (630) 301-8530