ARTICLES

"10 Housing Markets Set for Biggest Rise in 2011"

Bellingham, Washington listed at #5

http://www.housingzone.com/pb/article/10-housing-markets-set-biggest-rise-2011

HOME MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Inspecting your home on a regular basis and following good maintenance practices are the best way to protect your investment in your home. Most home maintenance activities are seasonal; however, there are some things you should do on a frequent/monthly basis year-round.

EVERY MONTH

• Check that fire extinguisher(s) are fully charged. Re-charge if necessary.
• Examine heating/cooling air filters and replace or clean as necessary.
• Inspect and clean humidifiers and electronic air cleaners.
• Clean gutters and downspouts. Ensure that downspouts are secure and that the discharge of the downspouts is appropriate.
• Carefully inspect the condition of shower enclosures. Repair or replace deteriorated grout and caulk. Ensure that water is not escaping the enclosure during showering. Check below all plumbing fixtures for evidence of leakage.
• Repair or replace leaking faucets or shower heads.
• Secure loose toilets or repair flush mechanisms that become troublesome.

 SPRING & FALL

• Examine the roof for evidence of damage to roof coverings, flashing, and chimneys.
• Look in attic (if accessible) to ensure that roof vents are not obstructed. Check for evidence of leakage, condensation or vermin activity. Level out insulation if needed.
• Trim back tree branches and shrubs to ensure that they are not in contact with the house, lights, or ventilation.
• Inspect the exterior walls and foundation for evidence of damage, cracking, or movement. Watch for bird nests or other vermin or insect activity.
• Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture.
• Look at overhead wires coming to the house. They should be secure and clear of trees or other obstructions.
• Ensure that the grade of the land around the house encourages water to flow away from the foundation.
• Inspect all driveways, walkways, decks, porches and landscape components for evidence of deterioration, movement, or safety hazards.
• Clean windows and test their operation. Improve caulking and weather stripping as necessary. Watch for evidence of rot in wood window frames. Paint and repair window sills and frames as necessary.
• Test all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices.
• Shut off isolating valves for exterior hose bibs in the fall, if below freezing temperatures are anticipated.
• Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve on water heaters.
• Inspect for evidence of wood boring insect activity. Eliminate any wood/soil contact around the perimeter of your home.
• Test the overhead garage door opener, to ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is responding properly. Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks on overhead doors.
• Replace or clean exhaust hood filters.
• Clean, inspect and/or service all appliances as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

ANNUALLY

• Replace smoke detector batteries. A good rule of thumb is to change them when the time changes in the spring and fall.
• Have the heating, cooling, and water heater systems cleaned and serviced.
• Have chimneys inspected and cleaned (if applicable). Ensure that rain caps and vermin screens are secured.
• Examine the electrical panels, wiring, and electrical components for evidence of overheating. Ensure that all components are secure. Flip breakers on and off to ensure that they are not sticky.
• If your home is in an area prone to wood destroying insects (termites, carpenter ants, etc.) have the home inspected by a licensed specialist.