09/03/2012
SEASONAL MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Annual and regular maintenance is an important part of maintaining your home’s systems. Regular maintenance can help to reduce costly repair bills that go along with systems that have not been maintained or have been neglected. I would highly recommend going over this list every SPRING and FALL and making the necessary improvements or repairs.
FOUNDATION, EXTERIOR – SPRING ___ FALL ___
___ Check foundation wall and floors for cracking heaving, spalling, deterioration, or efflorescence.
___ Check chimney for loose, deteriorated, or missing mortar or bricks.
___ Check grading for proper slope away from foundation.
___ Check basement and crawlspace for moisture or leaks.
___ Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure.
___ Check all decks, patio, porches, stairs and railing for deterioration.
___ Cut back and trim all vegetation from structures.
ROOF- SPRING ___ FALL ___
___ Check for any missing, loose or damage shingles.
___ Check for open seams, blisters or bald areas on flat roofs.
___ Clean gutters, strainers, and downspouts – make sure downspouts divert water away from the foundation.
___ Check the attic for any evidence of leaks.
___ Check flashing around all surfaces projections, sidewalls and protrusions.
___ Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from the roof.
___ Check fascia and soffits for deterioration and damage.
___ Periodically check exposed wiring and cable for mechanical damage. Replace as necessary.
___ Check all lamp cords, extension cords and receptacles for signs of wear.
___ Trip circuit breaker every six (6) months and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI’s) monthly to insure proper function.
___ Learn location of electrical service panels and label each circuit.
___ If fuses blow, circuit breakers trip frequently, or any appliance sparks or shorts out, contact a licensed electrician for repairs.
HEATING AND COOLING – SPRING ___ FALL ___
___ Clean or change furnace filters every three (3) months of operation. Lubricate fan and motor bearings (only where indicated).
___ Check fan belt tension and listen for unusual noises.
___ Keep area around heating and cooling equipment clear and unobstructed.
___ For boiler systems, check water level and shut-off value for leaks.
___ Have system serviced annually prior to start of the season
DOORS AND WINDOWS – SPRING ___ FALL ___
___ Check for loose or missing glazing putty.
___ Check caulking for deterioration at the openings and joints between dissimilar materials (wood & masonry).
___ Check weather-stripping.
___ Check for broken glass and damaged or missing screens.
___ Check all windows and door hardware.
PLUMBING – SPRING ___ FALL ___
___ Check all faucets, hose bibs, and supply valves for leakage.
___ Check for evidence of leaks around and under sinks, showers, toilets and tubs.
___ Check all tile joints for adequate grout.
___ Check lawn sprinkler systems for leaky valves and exposed lines. Have the septic tank cleaned every two (2) years. Have well water checked for quality.
___ Check the main water shut-off valve for operation and leakage.
INTERIOR – SPRING ___ FALL ___
___ Check ceiling and surfaces around windows for evidence of moisture.
___ Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilet base.
___ Check ceiling areas beneath bathroom for leakage. Check all stairs and railings for any loose members.
___ Check all fire and safety systems regularly.
___ Test all smoke and CO detectors regularly.
___ Know the location of all gas shut-off valves.
Have a great spring and call me for all your renovation needs or advice.
