10 Home Improvemet Tips

Check for loose or leaky gutters. Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement or crawl space. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are clear and free of debris.

Low areas in the yard or next to the foundation should be filled with compacted soil. Spring rains can cause yard flooding, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage. Also, when water pools in these low areas in summer, it creates a breeding ground for insects.

Use a screwdriver to probe the wood trim around windows, doors, railings and decks. Make repairs now before the spring rains do more damage to the exposed wood.

From the ground, examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter. If your home has an older roof covering, you may want to start a budget for replacement. The summer sun can really damage roof shingles. Shingles that are cracked, buckled or loose or are missing granules need to be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys need to be checked and repaired by a qualified roofer.

Examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. All exterior slabs except pool decks should drain away from the home's foundation. Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and then seal the concrete.

Remove firewood stored near the home. Firewood should be stored at least 18 inches off the ground at least 2 feet from the structure.

Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced. While you're at it, check the garden hose for dry rot.

Have a qualified heating and cooling contractor clean and service the outside unit of the air conditioning system. Clean coils operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels. Change interior filters on a regular basis.

Check your gas- and battery-powered lawn equipment to make sure it is ready for summer use. Clean equipment and sharp cutting blades will make yardwork easier.

Vinyl Window Replacement

Ditching a drafty window is a slam-dunk energy saver. You can even install Low-E (low-emissivity) ones that deflect heat in hot weather and keep it in when it’s cold. They cost 10%  to 15% more but cut energy loss by 30% to 50% according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Steel Entry Door Replacement

Security and energy efficiency are big musts for buyers, and replacing old doors address both in a snap.  Go for steel doors, they shout SAFE and cost a third of what fiberglass doors would cost. Another plus: New doors add to your home’s curb appeal, which is one of the first things buyers scrutinize when buying a home.

Seal Doors and Windows

Due to change in temperature, rain and snow, often times you will notice small cracks around the door or windows. The cold draft can find its way to your cozy house through these small openings. Sealing is a pretty simple and inexpensive way of insuring that the cold air does not sneak in. You should caulk and seal around your doors and windows to ensure that you close all those cracks