homestyle
15 HELPFUL TIPS
SPRING INTO ACTION
checklist
WITH THIS HOME MAINTENANCE
By Ellen Ashton-Haiste
T
he arrival of spring heralds an inclination to get your home ready for the arrival of the leisurely days of summer. From inspecting the exterior of the house for signs of winter damage and doing necessary repairs to sprucing up outdoor living spaces, homeowners are going through their spring maintenance checklists. Here are some helpful tips to aid those efforts.
50 Lifestyle May/June 2021
1. ROOF
As the first line of defence against weather, it is crucial to ensure the roof is in good condition and has not suffered from the ravages of winter. Carefully inspect for signs of damage, such as missing, lifting, curling or cracked shingles and wear. Look for wear and tear around vents. Major problems should be repaired by a qualified roofer. (www.cooperators.ca)
2. GUTTERS
Spring is typically the wettest time of year, with melting snow and rain, so it is time to clear eaves-
troughs and downspouts. Winter ice and snow can cause damage that may lead to improper drainage. Repair leaks to ensure that water flows off the roof and away from the foundation and basement windows. (www.cooperators.ca)
helps with the airflow to the fireplace or stove and prevents precipitation entering the flue. Caps also keep creatures, such as squirrels or birds, out of the flue. (www.cooperators.ca)
3. CHIMNEY
This is also the time to service the air conditioner and replace filters. Shut off power to the outdoor unit and clean the grill and fan of debris. Rake around the unit and cut back branches to allow for proper airflow. Inside the home don’t forget to change the furnace air filter. (www.cooperators.ca)
Inspect the material that waterproofs the edges where the chimney meets the roof – also known as flashing – for gaps, bends or cracks where water might penetrate. Look for signs of damage at the top of the chimney. This may be the perfect time to replace the flue cap, that
4. AIR CONDITIONER
