By Marti Ryan, Ryan Field Services
Many people find that they have less and less time and energy to tackle those seasonal home maintenance tasks that they once enjoyed doing. This can be especially true as we get older and it becomes more difficult to do these chores or our weekends become consumed by work and family events. Throw in a major life change like moving, downsizing, or caring for an aging parent, and we can get so overwhelmed that we’re afraid to even start. As we leave winter behind and spring beckons, there are many crucial seasonal chores that simply must be done.
The good news is that you can hire someone to do these mundane tasks for you. But if you prefer to do it yourself, here are some tips to help keep your house in tip-top shape.
Clean your gutters every spring and fall.
Clogged gutters and downspouts may lead to water intrusion. Gutters sit along the edge of your roof, so when they become clogged, the overflow may seep behind the shingles leading to water stains on your ceilings or even actively dripping water. The simple solution is to keep your gutters free of debris and while you’re at it, look for missing shingles.
Trim your trees.
Overgrown trees are often to blame for clogged gutters. When branches hang over your roof, their leaves fall into your gutters and the branches may rub against your roof. It’s never a good idea to have tree branches rubbing against the roof or siding. The branches are likely to loosen shingles, which may allow water intrusion. If you don’t have your own pole pruner to trim your branches, they can usually be rented at a reasonable rate from any equipment rental store.
Trim your bushes.
While overgrown bushes won’t typically cause as much damage as an overgrown tree branch rubbing your roof, well manicured bushes improves curb appeal, which in turn, increases property value. A good rule of thumb is to keep walkways clear of overgrown bushes, keep bushes below window ledges, at least 18” away from the structure. This prevents branches from growing behind siding. Another potential hazard would be vines growing on a structure. Although some people like the look of a vine wall, the possible damage vines can cause is rarely worth the scenery.
Check your lights.
Well-lit areas are important for safety reasons and also add to curb appeal. We suggest you check your bulbs and clean any debris, webs, and dirt from fixtures when you clean your gutters twice a year.
Check your sump pump.
Spring is here, and as you know “April showers bring May flowers…” along with melting snow and rain that can lead to water backing up in your basement. Water intrusion in your home can lead to ruined items and mold, which can be very costly. When checking your sump pump, lift the float and be sure the water is being extracted from the pit. Also make sure any exterior hoses are directed away from the house.
Yard Maintenance.
It’s no secret that a freshly mowed lawn can put a smile on anyone’s face, there’s just something refreshing about it! Prolong that look by fertilizing your lawn and spraying for weeds. If you move gutter extensions or sump pump hoses to mow, make sure you always put them back when you’re done.
Prepare your garden.
Remove debris and compost the dead annual plants that remained over the winter. If you left your perennials standing in the fall, you will want to begin removing, mulching and pruning them down to ground level, once you begin to see new growth. Be sure not to work in your garden while the soil is still wet enough to form a ball in your hand.
Change your furnace filters.
Check your filters once a month. The condition of your filter is a big factor in your indoor air quality and how well your furnace operates. A well maintained filter will make your furnace more efficient and prolong its life. If you have animals, it might be a good idea to check your filter more often.
Reduce clutter.
Many people have an area that is a catch-all, whether it is your spare room, basement, garage, or shed doesn’t matter; it’s there. Spring is a great time to get that area cleaned out and re-purpose it. Make a hobby room in your basement or park your car in the garage, where it was intended to be parked. These projects are often put off for years and years because we dread the idea of digging into the years of stuff or have no idea what to do with everything that doesn’t fit in the city-approved trash receptacle. Many people don’t think about hiring a company to clear the clutter! In one day, an outside company can have your garage or basement organized and cleared, so you can actually use the space.
For help with your home maintenance needs call Ryan Field Services (RFS Property Management), 309-365-7001. They are located at 117 N Vine St. Lexington, IL, 61753. Visit their website at www.ryanfieldservices.com and like them on Facebook
www.facebook.com/ryanfieldservices.