Spring Home Maintenance

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

- Inspect exterior Hire a pro to tackle siding maintenance. Inspect deck for wood rot
(especially under crawl spaces and where wood touches the ground), loose or warped boards,
cracks in railing, loose connections between railings or supports and main structure, water
protection (look for water soaking into the wood, not beaqding, apply sealer). Check flashing
around chimney, dormers, vents, and skylights.

- Clean gutters and downspouts Multiple freezes and thaws can result in sags and dips.

- Inspect your roof Tip: Check the south end of your roof first; it is the first to show wear.

- Get a chimney check-up Hire a chimney sweep that can quickly check for cracks or leaks.

- Don’t overlook your attic Check for proper ventilation, obstructions and leaks. Check the
undersides of the eaves for any rotting which can lead to water damage in your attic.

- Check your heat/air unit; Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Call an expert to inspect cooling systems, clean ducts, and change filters. A properly
running system improves efficiency and ensures your home stays cool. Tip: Consider adding
ceiling fans to assist with cooling. They are a proven way to save electricity.

- Prune landscaping and create good drainage Maintain your plants and shrubs to prevent
soil erosion. Downspouts should carry rainwater 5 feet away from the foundation to prevent
water damage.

- Give concrete a little TLC Seal your driveway, power wash your patio and have a pro service
your pool. Inspect porch, steps, driveway, patio, and any other concrete surfaces for cracks.

- Weatherproof your windows and doors Check all caulk lines and weather stripping; remove
storm windows and replace with screens.

- Don’t forget the sump pump Install a battery backup pump as
insurance against water damage.

- Install surge protectors On appliances, electronic equipment and
computers. Power surges caused by spring storms can cause big
problems for your appliances.

- Check your sprinklers None of the lawn sprinklers should hit the
house with water, which can lead to moisture problems.

- Get Barbeque out of storage and clean it!

Women's Council of Realtors RI Chapter

Thank you to all of the generous sponsors and donors who made our annual fundraiser so successful. This year we were very fortunate to have the luxury condominium complex at Brown and Howard host our event. It is the most successful fundraiser we have had to date! Congratulations to all the winners of the fabulous silent and live auction items - one of our guests is going to the Bahamas! And our Women's Council Board looks forward to cooking dinner for another lucky recipient. It is amazing how much support our organization has received even in what is considered a down economy. The Women's Council gives so much value to it's members and affiliates. We were so fortunate to have such a great response and honored that so many found the value in it as well. We had another great turn our at Monday's social networking Program, hosted by Zachary Saunders of Bank of New England. These are the tools of technology! Next month, our Program will be at the Rhode Island Association of Realtors - the topic is MLS tips and tricks. With our MLS constantly improving, a RIAR instructor will give us an update on what's new and how we can use the MLS features to enhance our business! See you there...

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