With the wildfires burning in Western North Carolina, smoke has inundated the Charlotte area. This is a great time to change out your filters on your heating and cooling system. This is just one of the small maintenance items you can take care of while living in your home that can make all the difference when it comes time to sell. Here are some of the handyman issues you should keep up with each month or year. Many items are easy and you can take care of yourself. Many are harder and you should get a licensed professional to help you.
Monthly Checklist:
- Clean the furnace filter to remove dust build-up. This is especially important as the wildfires have caused excess build up right now.
- If you have one, check the water softener and replenish salt if necessary.
- Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to remove mineral deposits.
- Inspect tub and sink drains for debris; unclog.
Fall Seasonal Checklist:
- Rake leaves and aerate the lawn.
- Have forced-air heating system inspected by a professional. Tip: schedule an inspection in late summer or early fall before the heating season begins.
- Check fireplace for damage or hazards.
- Seal cracks and gaps in windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping; replace if necessary.
- Swap old, drafty windows for more energy-efficient models.
- Touch up exterior siding and trim with paint.
- Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
- Power-wash windows and siding.
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Mend cracks and gaps in the driveway and walkway.
- Drain and winterize exterior plumbing.
- Have fireplace professionally inspected.
- Tune up major home appliances before the holidays.
- Repair or replace siding.
- Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Clean the carpets.
- Clean window and door screens.
- Vacuum lint from dryer vent.
- Inspect exterior door hardware; fix squeaky handles and loose locks.
- Check for frayed cords and wires.
Spring Seasonal Checklist:
- Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
- Change the air-conditioner filter.
- Clean window and door screens.
- Polish wood furniture, and dust light fixtures.
- Refinish the deck and/or wooden fence.
- Power-wash windows and siding.
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- If you have one, have a professional inspect and pump the septic tank.
- Inspect sink, shower, and bath caulking for deterioration.
- Vacuum lint from dryer vent.
If you take care of these seasonal items, you have a much better chance of avoiding large maintenance issues coming up during a home sale. You will also have a much better experience living in your home as you are less likely to have surprise costs mess up your budget.
Checklist courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens.