Happy New Decade!
It’s not only the beginning of a new year, but also the beginning of a new decade and a Golden opportunity for a fresh start. Many have already broke their new year’s resolutions and before month end, many more will inevitably be broken. But don’t let a failed attempt at your new years resolution wait until 2011 to try again, after all a new decade only happens, well, every 10 years. So if you break it – reassess it - and decide how you are going to accomplish your New Decade Resolution. Set a goal that will be realistic for you to achieve and then take baby steps to get there. Resolutions are not just a ‘hope’ it happens statement, rather, one must take some sort of action and be an active participant, just take action and make it happen.
But before you decide your resolution will be another cliché, health related resolution…you know — work out more, eat right, stop smoking etc. - why not give your home the same kind of resolve? Work to keep your home healthier this year. Below is a checklist to guide you or inspire you.
Spring
- Clean your gutters. Backed-up gutters can wreak havoc on siding and cause flooding. Scoop out leaves and debris with a trowel or hire professionals to do it.
- Check your roof. Wintry weather may have damaged the surface, and the first big rainstorm, left unchecked, could cause significant problems. Replace shingles as needed.
- If your fireplace got a workout during the winter months, give it a clean sweep. Call in the experts to inspect and clean it.
Summer
- Walk around your house to check for unsealed spots where squirrels or mice could sneak in. Look carefully for termites or ants, too. Inside, check your attic and make sure egress points are sealed tightly.
- Get ready for the warm season by giving any outdoor equipment (pools, swing sets, etc.) a thorough, top-to-bottom cleaning.
Fall
- Ensure your furnace is in prime shape for the cold months ahead, and change all the air filters in your home.
- Make sure your house is adequately sealed. Apply weather stripping (such as tape, felt, foam or vinyl tubing) around doors or windows.
- Trim branches near your home or roof to prevent damage when wintry weather hits.
Winter
- Drain and insulate outdoor pipes to prevent freezing.
- Check for damaged sidewalk, driveway or stairs, and repair them before the first snow to avoid dangerous mishaps.
It will be a new decade before we know it, so start today!