Many people are spending more time at home due to the pandemic. Take advantage of the warm weather to check your property for damage and make necessary home repairs before they become a bigger problem.
- Inspect the roof – You don’t need to climb a ladder to do this. Use binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens to look for loose, missing, bald, or warped shingles. The presence of moss and lichen on shingles should be addressed because both attract and hold water on the roof surface. Consider hiring a professional for a more complete inspection. Identifying and correcting issues early can prevent much larger problems down the line such as roof leaks, structural damage, mold growth, etc. Learn more here.
- Clean and repair gutters and downspouts – Debris can clog the downspouts leading to leaks and rotting of adjacent wood trim. Acorns can attract unwanted rodents into the attic where they can do damage. Be sure that water is directed away from the foundation of the house to prevent it from collecting in basements and contributing to mold growth. Find more info here.
- Check for signs of termites – These winged insects that look like flying white ants appear in warmer weather. They can be observed flying in swarms especially at night when they are attracted to light. Holes in the woodwork or papery, hollow sounding wood are a sure sign. You might also see wings that have been shed, narrow mud tubes, or small black termite droppings deposited adjacent to their holes. Read more here.
- Check the foundation – Foundational areas should be cleared of organic debris and graded to slope away from the house to prevent standing water. Plantings should be spaced away from the foundation based on how much space the plant will take up at maturity. They should be spaced apart to allow for good airflow and ventilation to adjacent building materials. Mulching plantings helps to maintain even ground moisture. If you use edging, remember to provide drainage openings large enough to prevent clogging by debris. Keep 3-4 inches of the foundation exposed. Find out more here.
Give your home a thorough check. Identifying and addressing issues now could prevent the need for costly repairs later.