10 Tips to Get Your Home or Cottage Spring Ready

Early spring is a good time to look carefully at your home or cottage from the outside in. Repair work or installations can then be booked ahead of many seasonal demands.

1) Check Your Foundation
Looks for any cracks in the cement or any water damage. Any questionable cracks should be inspected by a professional.

2) Clear Gutters
Clear any eavestroughs of late fall or winter debris. Ensure downspouts are draining properly so water is not pooling near your foundation.

3) Inspect Your Roof
See if winter snow loads and ice have affected your roof. If your shingles are older, early spring is a good time to consider lifetime metal roofing. A lasting, new roof can lower your insurance premium.

4) Check Your Windows
Look for any signs of winter wear, cracking or air leaks. Replacing leaky windows can save up to 10% on your energy bill.

5) Do A Seasonal Safety Check
Daylight savings has us changing our clocks. It’s also a good reminder to replace batteries on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

6) Test Well Water
If on a well, test drinking water for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and pH levels, and other potential contaminants.

7) Have Your Chimney Cleaned
A regular seasonal inspection and cleaning can prevent the build-up of soot and creosote that can line a chimney and eventually catch fire.

8) Check Screens on Doors and Windows
Early spring is a good time to repair screens before bug season starts. Screen repair kits can be found at most hardware stores.

9) Get a Jump on AC
HVAC system filters  should be changed before seasonal use. Have a technician check the air conditioner unit for other maintenance issues.

10) Start with Spring Fill
Add compacted soil to low areas near the foundation before spring rains start. Fill any other areas where standing water might pool.

With more than 30 years of experience, Lifestyle Home Products can provide estimates to install lifetime replacement windows, exterior doors or metal roofing. Lifestyle also offers lifetime sunrooms, awnings and one-day bath renovations.

Call 1-800-465-0593 or visit LifestyleHomeProducts.ca.