SPRUCE UP FOR SPRING!

 It is the first week in March and in some places in the U.S. snow is still on the ground while in other flowers and trees are beginning to bud.  

Here is a "short list" of home projects you can do to Spruce Up for Spring.

1. Clean off your roof and clean out gutters and down spouts.  Winter can be extremely brutal for roof and gutters with the extra weight of snow and freezing temperatures.  Check the ridge lines and valleys for signs of wear and tear.  Clean gutters of debris and check to ensure each section of gutter is securely fastened.  Unclog downspouts and replace worn or damages sections of the downspout system.

2. Check exterior walls and foundations. For those living in colder climates this is extremely important as ice and snow can penetrate cracks in the foundation and exterior walls causing damage.  For those living in a milder climate, it is still important to examine the walls and foundation for signs of wear and tear.  Warmer climates and excessive rain can compromise the integrity of exterior walls and foundations.

3. Caulk around windows.  Summer follows spring and you will want to keep energy costs down.  Removing and replacing tired caulk from around windowsills and sashes can help keep reduce stress on your air conditioner.

4. Prep your air conditioner.  It is time for your air conditioner's six-month checkup.   Professional air conditioner service will go a long way to keep the a/c running at optimal level during the summer season.  For those whose climate is warm yea-round, a six-month checkup will aid in reducing monthly electrical costs.

5. Clean windows and screens. Everyone's favorite project is cleaning windows and washing screens in springtime.  A dirty job, but somebody must do it.  Cleaning windows gives you the opportunity to see if the frame, sash, sill, or panes of glass need repair or replacement.  The same is true for those screens you may have stored for the winter.  Worn and frail screens can be repaired. New screening can be installed to take advantage of those fantastic spring days.

6. Start lawn care.  Those in the colder climates know their lawn has taken a beating with the harsh weather.  Spring lawn care gives you the opportunity to feed and fertilize your lawn and re-seed areas that have been hardest hit by colder weather.  People in warmer regions should begin their lawn projects as well.  Lawns in milder climates need TLC too.  Weed prevention, replacing drained lawn nutrients and re-seeding will promote strong lawn growth and a healthy yard.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of springtime projects, but they will keep you busy for a few of those great spring weekends.