The level of maintenance provided to a home is a significant factor in maintaining or increasing house value. All homeowners should establish a regular preventive maintenance schedule.

Spring is a particular important time to perform a maintenance inspection.  Here is a general spring maintenance checklist that can help guide you through the process. It is also important to check any manufacturer maintenance guides you have for specific instructions on the particular appliances and other equipment or building products that have been installed.

GROUNDS

◾        Check the general condition of driveways, patios and walks.

◾        Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for blockage.

◾        Check fencing conditions and gate operation.

◾        Check retaining walls for cracks, bulges and leaning.

◾        Check all landscaping; trim all bushes and trees away from the house.

◾        Check that all surfaces drain rainwater away from the foundation.

◾        Check for proper grading and drainage throughout the property.

◾        Check lawn sprinkler system operation.

◾        Check all equipment in preparation for pool opening.

SIDING AND CHIMNEYS

◾        Check all surfaces for gaps, damage or deterioration.

◾        Check joints for the condition of flashings and caulking.

◾        Treat or paint worn or exposed wood components.

◾        Check the condition of masonry chimneys and metal vents.

◾        Check foundation for signs of new settlement, cracking or spalling.

WINDOWS AND DOORS

◾        Check for damaged screens or broken glass.

◾        Check weatherstripping, caulking, and window putty.

◾        Check for frame decay or damage, especially at sills.

◾        Clean and install screens.

◾        Check and lubricate locks and hardware.

ROOFS

◾        Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.

◾        Check fascias and soffits for signs of leaks or moisture build-up.

◾        Check all flashings for fit and seals.

◾        Check television antenna or satellite dish mounting.

◾        Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.

◾        Make sure downspouts direct water away roof juncture points and foundation.

◾        Clean fungi or algae from roof surfaces.

PORCH, DECK AND PATIO

◾        Check all wooden components for decay or insects damage.

◾        Check that all guardrail and handrails are secure. 

◾        Check flooring and treads for wear or damage.

◾        Apply preservative to wood decking and components.

◾        Seal patios at foundation juncture.

INSECT INFESTATION

◾        Check for signs of termite, ant or other insect activity.

◾        Check for insect damage.

◾        Arrange for annual servicing, if active contract.

◾        Arrange for a wood-destroying insect inspection in high risk areas. 

INTERIOR AREAS

◾        Check attic, ceilings and walls for evidence of leaks.

◾        Check ventilation openings for nests, or other blockage.

◾        Check condition of all painted or finished walls and trim.

◾        Check carpet and flooring for wear or damage.

◾        Check condition of all stairs and railings.

◾        Check condition and operation of all windows and doors.

◾        Test smoke/fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

SLAB/FOUNDATION

◾        Check for cracks or breaks in wall.

◾        Check for evidence of water infiltration or dampness.

◾        Check for decaying sills and window frames.

◾        Check for changes in framing conditions.

◾        Check crawlspace ventilation, insulation, and vapor retarders.

◾        Clean and test sump pump.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

◾        Check condition of incoming service wire and supports.

◾        Test circuit breakers and label all circuits at panel.

◾        Assess the distribution system for overload issues.

◾        Check circuits for over-fusing.

◾        Test arc-fault and ground-fault circuit-interrupters (regularly).

◾        Check all receptacles and switches.

◾        Check operation of exhaust fans vent and/or attic fans.

◾        Check for extension cord overuse / misuse.

HEATING/COOLNG SYSTEMS

◾        Follow manufacturer instructions for HVAC systems maintenance.

◾        Inspect and install room air conditioners, if applicable.

◾        Clean all serviceable elements of the heating system.

◾        Make sure the outdoor cooling coils are clean and unobstructed.

◾        Change or clean heating and cooling system filters (regularly).

◾        Check venting systems for corrosion and leaks.

◾        Clean and de-energize humidifier.

◾        Check attic fan operation.

PLUMBING SYSTEM

◾        De-winterize lines and check exterior faucets.

◾        Check water and waste piping for corrosion or leaks.

◾        Check hot water supply temperature setting.

◾        Follow manufacturer instructions for the water heater maintenance.

◾        Check well components.

◾        Check septic tank; pump if required. 

KITCHEN/BATHROOMS

◾       Caulk and grout tile at tubs and showers.

◾       Clean aerators and showerheads.

◾       Check and repair all leaking faucets and valves.

◾       Check all toilet flush mechanisms.

◾       Clean or change range fan filters.

◾       Check the condition and operation of all appliances.

◾       Check and flush jetted baths piping.

◾       Look for any signs of excess indoor moisture.

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Note: These tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at www.housemaster.com.

Copyright ©  DBR Franchising, LLC

Making the replacement of the batteries in your home's smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms an annual event tied to the change of clock time in the spring or fall is a good way to ensure that a the alarms will be ready to sound in the event of an incident.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), two-thirds of fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. There are more than 300,000 home fires every year and more than 2,000 people die in them, according to a 2013 Residential Fire Loss Estimates report  prepared by the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Batteries in battery-powered alarms need to be replaced every year. In addition, it is recommended that homeowners test their alarms every month to make sure they are working.  Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas for the best protection.

Although more than 90 percent of U.S. homes report having at least one working smoke alarm, the percentage with a working CO alarm is much less, although growing.  CO alarms can alert you and your family to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide inside your home.

Carbon monoxide is called the invisible killer, because you cannot see or smell it. This poisonous gas can come from many sources, and can quickly incapacitate and kill its victims.  Every home should have at least one CO alarm, but it is particularly important in any home with solid or liquid fuel-burning heating systems, hot water heaters, appliances, and fireplaces.  Homes with attached garages or where gas generators are used also need CO protection.

A CO alarms should be installed on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas.  Like smoke alarms, CO alarms need fresh batteries every year. CO alarms also should be tested once a month to make sure they are working.

Alarms should be replaced at least every ten years or as indicated by the manufacturer.  Periodically recalls are issued by Health Canada and/or the CPSC regarding Smoke and CO Alarms.  You can check to determine if the alarms in your home have been recalled by going to the respective websites

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Note: These tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at www.housemaster.com.

Copyright © DBR Franchising, LLC