May Tips: Spring Clean & Prepare For Summer Heat!

May 1st, 2009

MAY

So you’ve inspected the property . . . and found a few things to fix!
May is a great time to make a few repairs and to prep your home for the summer heat.

  • Check the deck, railings, porch and fencing for rotting wood.  Spring is a wonderful time to re-paint the fence or seal the deck if needed.  And they’ll be protected from the summer’s extreme heat!
  • Clean the gutters and downspouts and make sure that they are attached and sloping appropriately.
  • Review your property for any tree limbs that are close or are touching utility lines.  If you find this situation, call a professional tree technician or your local utility company to trim those limbs.  This will prevent any possible electrical hazards.
  • Remove dead branches that could fall on your home during a summer storm and clean up any debris that lying around your property.
  • Make a plan for your plants, flowers and seedlings based on the shade/sun exposure for your yard and house.  Plants can be an inexpensive way to spruce up and personalize your home.
  • If your lawn is spotty, spring is the time to seed and sod.  Be careful to water these areas properly to make the most of your hard work!
  • Repair any torn screens so that your home will be insect-free and you can enjoy the summer breezes.
  • Inspect and clean dust from the covers of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
  • Replace old extension cords that could become fire hazards.
  • Pool equipment and the concrete around the pool should be inspected.  Memorial Day is right around the corner!

GREEN Tip for the month:

Looking at ways to save energy?  Aren’t we all!  How about trying to line dry your clothes?  This allows you to tap into the most natural energies available:  the wind and the sun.  Clothes dryers are not energy-efficient, so put up a clothesline.  You can do this almost anywhere, and you’ll be surprised at the savings you’ll see reflected in your energy bills!

Maintenance Tips, May

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