Your home is one of your largest investments. The best way to keep it running smoothly and efficiently is through regular maintenance. Below are some basic home maintenance tips.

Monthly Maintenance

• Check your fire extinguishers to be sure they are fully charged.
• Repair or replace leaking faucets or shower heads. Check grout and caulk in bathrooms.
• Ensure water is not escaping during showering.
• Check below all plumbing fixtures for leakage. Re-secure loose toilets and repair or replace faulty flush mechanisms.
• Replace or clean heating and cooling air filters.
• Clean all gutters and downspouts. Check that downspouts are secure and the discharge is appropriate.
• Test all GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) devices.

Spring and Fall

• Examine your roof for damage to the roof coverings, chimney and flashings. If possible, look in the attic.
• Check for evidence of leakage, condensations or critters.
• Check your landscaping around structures. Trim back tree branches and shrubs to be sure they are not contacting any structures.
• Inspect the exterior walls and foundation of the house for damage, cracking or movement. Look for bird nests, insect and critter activity.
• Clean and test windows to be sure they are operating correctly.
• Add caulking and weather-stripping if needed. Inspect for evidence of rotten wood.
• Paint and repair the window sills and frames as needed.
• Test the garage door opener.
• Be sure the auto-reverse mechanism is responding properly.
• Clean and lubricate rollers, tracks, and hinges on the overhead doors.
• Clean and inspect all appliances as suggested by the manufacturer.

Annually

• Replace smoke detector batteries
• Have the heating, cooling and water heater systems cleaned and serviced.
• Have chimney inspected and cleaned.
• Be sure the rain caps and vermin screens are secure.