Other Spring Cleaning Tips

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Some other tips for making the transition from winter to spring:

• Warm weather means shutting down the heating system and turning on the air conditioning. So you want to change all the filters.
  
• Make sure all your windows and doors close and lock properly.
  
• Replace any extension cords that have become brittle, worn or damaged.
  
• Caulk any leaks or cracks in the basement walls and seal with a waterproof caulk.
  
• After you clean your downspouts and gutters, check for any leaks by running a garden hose into the gutters; seal any holes with waterproof caulk. In addition, make sure downspouts extend at least 3 feet from the foundation of the house.
  
• Cold weather also can cause a concrete or paved sidewalk or driveway to crack, creating a dangerous walking surface. Make any necessary repairs.
  
• If your house is covered with siding, check for any loose nails.
  
• Scrub mildew and fungus off your deck with a pressure washer.
  
• Clean around the air-conditioner compressor.

(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, SHNS.com.)