Maintenance Tips
Using the finest in production home quality materials and highly skilled craftsmen, the new homes are delivered with a complete understanding of best maintenance practices to ensure a successful upkeep of the new residence.
Monthly (or according to manufacturer recommendations)
- Clean and test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
- Test and reset ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) breakers
- Change or clean furnace / return air filters
- Keep HVAC registers/vents/intake grills clean and free of obstructions
- Clean filters in range / microwave hood as applicable
- Grind a small quantity of ice or lemon slices to clean garbage disposal
- Inspect and recaulk tub / shower areas where needed
- Inspect and repair any leaky faucets inside and outside home
- Adjust irrigation scheduling to prevent overwatering and to adjust for change in seasons. Adjust heads to eliminate overspray onto structure
- Inspect and clear any blockage or plant overgrowth from drainage. Keep drains clear.
BRRRR!! It’s getting cold out there. That can only mean that Jack Frost is on his way with ice and freezing temperatures. Don’t get caught unprepared. Take some simple steps in order to keep the holidays happy and your home merry and bright.
In addition to your regular monthly maintenance items please consider the following seasonal maintenance tips:
- If applicable, Inspect and clean gas fireplaces as necessary. Clean glass with non-abrasive and ammonia free cleaner
- Clean wood cabinetry with a soft cloth and lemon oil, or manufacturer recommended product. Do not use water. Inspect hinges and glides, service as necessary.
- Check for any plumbing leaks and repair as necessary
- Clean refrigerator/freezer coils
- Check all stairs and railings for any loose members; repair as necessary
- Remove frozen moisture from concrete surfaces as soon as possible (Avoid using de-icing agents with damaging salts)
- On pleasant days, open windows a crack or more to allow the house to breathe
- Decorate safely for the holidays. Do not walk on tile roofing (if applicable), overload circuits or use poor extension cords
- Clean sliding door and window tracks, clean weep holes, check tightness of weather-stripping
- Inspect interior and exterior walls and surfaces for mildew. Eliminate any moisture source and properly remove mildew
Spring has sprung! April showers will clear the air and bring promise of renewed warmth. Flowers are blooming and awakening the critters and creatures from their months of hibernation. You can include a few simple steps to your spring cleaning routine to ensure your property is ready to welcome the months ahead.
In addition to your regular monthly maintenance items please consider the following seasonal maintenance tips:
- Inspect and service air conditioning system in preparation of the hot summer months
- Clean dryer vent hose and check outside flapper
- Clean faucet aerators and add water to seldom used drain traps
- Test fire sprinkler system. Follow all manufacturers’ recommendations or hire a professional.
- Inspect for pests. Eradicate or control as necessary.
- Consider hiring a professional to make a termite inspection.
- Test irrigations system for leaks
- Clean gutters and confirm that downspouts are clear and drain away from the house
- Look for settling of backfill soils and fill in where needed
- Check exterior caulking and re-caulk as necessary (Important!)
- Check exterior paint and touch up as necessary
- Lubricate door locks & hinges (do not use oil)
- Wash windows and screens, clean weep holes, and lubricate tracks
Get out the SPF 30 and put away the overcoats, because days of fun in the sun are here. It is time to take advantage of the warm, dry weather and make the most of the additional hours of daylight. Before you head to the hills or make a break for the beach, remember to also safeguard your home from the rays and the heat.
In addition to your regular monthly maintenance items please consider the following seasonal maintenance tips:
- Inspect grout around tile and touch up as necessary
- Clean wood cabinetry with a manufacturer recommended product. Do not use water. Inspect hinges and glides, service as necessary.
- Clean carpet and other flooring materials professionally, more often depending on use
- Inspect shower doors and tub enclosures for proper fit; adjust and recaulk as necessary
- Inspect duct work in attic space; repair or reform as needed
- Check garage door and opener, adjust as needed, and lubricate as necessary (Consider having garage door serviced by a professional annually)
- Inspect interior and exterior walls and surfaces for mildew. Eliminate any moisture source and properly remove mildew.
- Inspect fences; secure any loose boards, hammer loose nails and adjust gates as needed
- Review emergency procedures such as gas supply shut off with all occupants
Now that the leaves have begun to fall, the days will start to get shorter and the nights will begin to get colder and soon you will want to enjoy a cozy evening in front of the fire. So take the time to ensure that your home and yard are prepped for the changes in weather and you will not have any spooky surprises when the Trick-or-Treaters arrive.
In addition to your regular monthly maintenance items please consider the following maintenance tips:
- Inspect and service the heating system in preparation for colder days and nights
- Adjust registers and confirm that cold air returns are clear of furniture or draperies
- Adjust or replace weather-stripping on exterior doors as needed
- Remove hoses from exterior faucets and "freeze proof" exterior water supply lines
- If applicable, review safe fireplace operation
- Inspect and clean gutters and debris from roof; confirm that downspouts are clear and drain away from the house (Consider having roof and gutters inspected and cleaned by a professional annually).
- Inspect all concrete and hard surfaces; clean and make repairs as necessary
- Check for settling of backfill soils and adjust as needed to maintain positive drainage away from the house. Do not allow drainage onto neighboring properties and avoid any wood to earth contact.
- Check exterior caulking and touch-up as necessary. Pay close attention to door and window frames and any location where penetrations are present
- Wash windows and screens, clean weep holes and lubricate tracks
- Check for evidence of water penetration in attic, ceilings and all windows and doors
- Inspect all exterior wood materials on the property for dry rot, pest infestation and painting needs (it is recommended that complete exterior painting take place every 5 years)
