Springtime means check the house time

As a rule, at this time of year I wander around the home both inside and out. Many things need to be checked to ensure the house is running in good order.

• Before the last snow melts, my first task is to check the smoke detectors and carbon dioxide monitors. Making sure to replace the batteries and that everything is in working order provides peace of mind. Not only that but it can help prevent loss of life.
• Every quarter, I replace the air filters in the furnace and vacuum at the same time, keeping the area as dust free as possible. This prevents wear and tear on our furnace and gives us quality air to breath.
• I check the water hoses that connect to the washing machine and dishwasher. Checking helps prevent possible water damage. Most hoses these days are rubber or vinyl and easy to check.
• Every six months or so partially drain your hot water tank unless you have a tankless system. The water tank builds up sediment that can cause mechanical problems. Just drain it partially. Be careful! Remember water and electricity do not mix.
• I always clean the windows. The many cold months of closed windows can lead to a build up of grime on the inside. Clean them all inside first. Don’t worry too much about streaks until you get to cleaning the outside.
• Once all the snow has melted, I check the roof, even though I cleaned the eavestroughs in fall. This is the first job on the list for the spring. The heavy winds and mounded snow may have delivered more leaves and needles to pack the troughs. If left, this can lead to expensive repairs. Plugged eavestroughs can cause leaks, mildew, and rotting wood.
• While checking the eavestroughs always check the roof. Shingles can last on average 15 to 20 years with care. Some spots may have risen and be curled up these are easily replaced.

1. Carry out a walk-around inspection of the exterior of the home.
2. Inspect the exterior paint for flaking or missing paint.
3. Inspect the foundation of your home, look for cracks, settling damages or worse still insect activity.
4. Inspect the fence line and decks for any weakened or damaged boards.
5. Inspect windows and doors for broken seals, check the caulking and reapply where necessary.

• Prepare the lawnmower and garden tools. This is a perfect time to clean and tune-up the lawnmower, and if you have a grinder, sharpen the blades. Check other motorized equipment also.
• If you are like me, you will be spending many an evening on the deck. Pressure wash and perhaps add a quick new stain of wood protector. Clear up all the mold and mud the winter snow may bring.
• I know ‘They’ say don’t rake the leaves, but some people suffer with lawn mold. I always lightly rake the lawn, leaves the leaves in the border to mulch down and nourish the soil. Once the lawn has been raked, I top it up with grass seed and put organic fertilizer down to help it come back good and strong.

Finally, I clean the garage floor of all the excess salt from the build of snow and ice. Take out the garden furniture, airing the cushions for another season of fun in the backyard.

Have a great year folks.

Brent Poole is the owner operator of Handy Hands Construction, which he has run with his father Jim since 1997. A carpenter by trade, Brent enjoys all types of projects. “We’re not happy until you are happy!”

Brent Poole is the owner operator of Handy HandsConstruction, which he has run with his father Jimsince 1997. A carpenter by trade, Brent enjoys all typesof projects. “We’re not happy until you are happy!”