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Lets
get started:
1. Foundations
Inspect your foundation for cracks. If there is a problem, you will most
likely want to call a professional. The problem may be caused by settling,
by the
growth of trees whose roots are undermining the foundation, or by water.
2.
Drains
Clean out your gutters and drains. If your gutters have a cover screen,
keep it free from debris. Basement water leaks near down spouts are
sometimes caused
by clogged or broken gutters and down spouts.
3.
Walls
Keep the exterior walls clean by washing with a scrubber attached
to the hose. Scrape off paint blisters, sand, and repaint where
needed.
Don't leave unfinished
or untreated wood exposed to the weather.
4.
Masonry
Is mortar between the bricks loose? Are chimneys straight and
in good condition? Do you use your fireplace? Has the chimney
been cleaned?
Does the fireplace
damper close properly?
5.
Exterior doors and windows
Are your doors and windows straight and unwarped? Is there
any trace of rot? Is the caulking around the doors and windows
sound? Is window
putty sound?
Is the door or window frame of good quality, and securely fastened?
Are doors or windows properly finished? Is paint cracking or peeling?
Are
locks and deadbolts
in good order? Do you need to add locks or deadbolts? Do you need
security stops for limiting window opening?
If the door is rubbing on the frame, check to see if hinge screws
are tight, or if the frame is pulling away from the wall. Replace
cracked
or broken panes
of glass.
6.
Roof
Clean moss off your roof annually. Use a broom, moss killer,
zinc flashing at the ridge line or whatever else is appropriate
for
your situation.
Clean leaves and debris off the roof. Replace missing roofing
material. Check for
and repair any leaks. Provide adequate ventilation. If you have
questions about this, ask a roofing or building professional.
Keep ventilation
free of debris.
Does the ridge of the roof sag? This may indicate improper roof
framing or ventilation. Is the flashing around chimneys and dormers
in good
condition?
7.
Stairs
Are stairs and banisters solid? Repair handrails, stairs,
and uprights as needed.
Are exterior treads slippery?
Clean and apply sticky-back grip tread as necessary.
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8.
Interior walls and finishes
Wash or paint walls and trim as needed. When sanding old paint, take precautions
-- wear a dust mask, don't allow children in the area, vacuum the paint dust
and chips, don't allow the dust to spread throughout your home. For information
about lead-based paint, call the Department of Environmental Quality. Repair
cracks. Stable or hairline cracks can be scraped out and filled. Patch dings,
dents, and nail holes. Remove unused hardware and picture hooks. Fill holes.
Are their any stains? This may be caused by leaks which need checking. Stains
such as pencil, crayon, smoke,
or water on walls will require special primer
before
new paint will cover.
9. Floors
Do floors (especially in kitchen or bathroom) feel spongy or
sound hollow when tapped? This may be a sign of rot. The
supporting subfloor and possibly
the joists
will need to be replaced in order to repair the problem. Repair leaks and
replace rotted material to stop the problem. Do floors or stair treads
squeak? If the
material is in good condition, squeaks can often be eliminated.
10. Basement
Does the basement smell musty? This may be a sign
of rot or
of water seeping into the basement because
of broken draining
systems. This may be an indication
of a small problem or a large one.
11. Mechanical
systems
Are plumbing and wiring in good condition? Are the furnace
and water heater in good condition? Do all
the switches and
outlets work? Do the
faucets
work?
Do
sinks, basins, and baths drain quickly and without bubbling? Is the
electrical breaker or fuse box easily accessible and well marked?
Do you change
the furnace filters regularly? Is caulking around tubs and sinks
in
good condition?
Does
bathroom fan vent outside?
12. Attic
Can you see any sign of dampness, especially around chimneys
or skylights? Is there any sign of infestation by birds,
bats, or insects? Is the
attic ventilated?
Insulated? Can you see light through the roof? These are all problems
which need attention.
Give your home
a thorough annual check-up. Take care
of the little problems
so they don't become big ones.
If you decide to "do it yourself" be
sure to read the manufacturer's instructions, use the proper tools
and materials, and follow the safety recommendations
to the
letter. If help is what you need,
try to define the problem as clearly as possible, then call a reputable
repair or service company. |
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