Spring Maintenance Coast to Coast

The snow is melting (hopefully) and it’s safe to go outside again without a jacket. Has the harsh winter damaged your home? Take a look:

• From the curb, look back at your roof. Search for any depressions in the surface where snow could have caused sagging. If your roof is 10 years old or more, have a pro go up there to secure any loose flashings (the metal strips where roof sections meet) and check the chimney.

• If you have wood siding, look for popped nails or misaligned and splitting boards. Any masonry should be checked for cracks or mortar that gets knocked out of place by the ice.

• Your formerly beautiful lawn will need a makeover. Clear out any rocks and cut it down low with the mower. Afterwards, apply a balanced fertilizer to bring it out of hibernation.

• The furnace has been running constantly the last few months, which is why now is the time to replace the filter before you forget about it. Also, check any electrical wiring that’s been exposed to the elements for cracking.