Every year, we feel it is prudent to advise all concerned on a few best practices, when it comes to winter weather and your home. Whether you are the owner, property manager, or tenant, all share in the responsibility of making a property safe and warm each winter season and stay prepared for the next extreme weather season. So, if you are a new owner or read our articles each year, here is a refresher course on protecting your home this winter.
Even though you never know with the weather here in NC, winter is just about over, so instead of winter let’s start concentrating on spring cleaning. Since the two seasons are back to back, the prep and planning for a safe and efficiently run home are correlated. Putting away winter things and pulling out the spring things is the perfect time to take care of maintenance, as well as doing some cleaning tasks that are done on a less regular, seasonal basis.
Maintenance.
- Clean gutters, to prevent water run-off issues
- Remove fallen debris from trees, bushes, and brush around the property
- Examine roof shingles for need of replacement
- Check window casings to see if cold and snow did damage that can be worsened by spring rains
- Check chimney for signs of damage
- Check all concrete (sidewalks, pool decks, driveways and porches) for signs of cracking; fill and when the weather permits power wash and seal
- Service the AC before cooling the home becomes a daily need
Cleaning.
- Sanitize whatever you can get your hands on (Tip: Things that are washable, like plastic toys, can be done in the dishwasher or in a laundry bag in your washer)
- Clean cabinets; you’d be surprised how much soot and grease build up, undetected
- Dust ceiling fans; if you have old pillow cases, you can put them over each blade and rub off the dust, into the case
- Wash or replace pillows; that yellowing is usually…SWEAT
- Service/clean garbage disposal; ice sharpens the blades and lemons freshen
- Remove hard water on shower heads, with vinegar
- Clean the AC unit outside, with a water hose, and remove any yard/other debris
Sun and warmer temps are a breath of fresh air, at the close of a persnickety winter. Don’t get caught up in the change of weather, and forget about your change of season duties. Deferred maintenance can lead to costly repairs. Be a diligent, proactive tenant and owner. Save yourself from the headaches of deferred cleaning and maintenance, by investing your time and energy, now. Tis the season!
By: Alicia M. Caldwell, AMC Literary Services
