We got lucky this year.  It was a very mild winter.  Not too much snow shoveling, and flowers are already starting to bloom.  With the change in seasons come some other priorities that we need to address.  We need to get our homes ready for spring.  Let me give you a short list of home projects that you should consider this spring.

1. With the warm and mild winter, I’m beginning to wonder about the upcoming summer.  I wonder if it’s going to be a “hot one”  If so, prepare for it be getting your air conditioning compressor serviced.  Do this now!  Don’t wait until the compressor breaks down, and you and 100 other homeowners are waiting for the repairman to put you on the schedule.   Call them now.  Not unlike getting your car serviced regularly, you should be regularly servicing your AC compressor.  The serviceperson will clean the compressor, lubricate the mechanical equipment, and check your thermostat to make sure it’s working correctly.  Doing this on a regular basis will insure that your air conditioning is working, and that your actual equipment will last longer.  It’s a good investment.
2. If they haven’t started already, the spring rains are coming.  Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are cleared of all dead leaves and debris.  Your gutters and downspouts direct the rain off of your roof, to the downspouts and gutter extenders that direct the water away from your foundation.  That is their purpose.  When most homeowners get water in their basement, it’s because water was allowed to “pool” around the house foundation which allowed it to then seep into your basement.  Make sure your gutters are clear, and that you have at least 3-foot downspout extenders at the base of each of your downspouts.  Make sure these spring run-off is directed away from your home foundation.

1. Clean and seal your outside deck.  Over the winter, leaves and other debris sat on your deck surface, for weeks if not longer.  This decomposing material can degrade the surface of your deck.  Have a professional deck cleaner both power-wash your deck, and then reseal the surface with some kind of deck sealer.  If you are working with a good deck cleaner, they will recommend the appropriate deck sealer for you.  Do this now, and your deck will be an inviting place for you and your family to spend time.  Plus, it will look great!

We’ve made it through the winter.  Now we get to enjoy the spring and summer.  These simple “to-dos” will help you have a great summer.