Monthly Homeowner TIPS

January

Climb up to the roof and, with a broom, brush snow off the overhang.

Clean or replace the furnace filter.(Filters should be replaced or
cleaned at least once a month during peak heating season).

Clean humidifier pad on furnace.

Check windows for condensation. If they are quite damp, increase
the ventilation in your home by either running kitchen and bathroom
fans from time to time or by opening a window slightly.

February

Brush off the snow from roof overhang.

Clean range hood filter by soaking it in soapy water.

Dust and vacuum baseboard heaters.

Clean or replace furnace filter.

March

Remove snow from roof overhang.

Move refrigerator and dust off rear coils.

Clean or replace furnace filter.

Look for dripping taps replace washers if necessary.

April

Clean eavestrough and check downspouts.

Rake winter debris from lawns, once ground is quite dry.

Plant deciduous trees and shrubs.

Check roof for loose or cracked shingles.

Inspect exterior finishes (chipped paint etc.)

Check walk way and driveway for frost damage.If with a concrete patching material.

Fertilize lawn.

May

Sow new lawns with pitchfork to allow air in.

Plant annuals(end of month).

Check exterior caulking for rain penetration.

Remove storm windows.

Clean aluminum siding if dirty. Use a stiff bristle brush(not wire)and mix one liter
laundry bleach,with three liters water and 100 ml dishwasher detergent.

June

Feed perennials with 7-7-7 fertilizer.

Check wood or chain link fences for frost heave.

Inspect air conditioning system to see if it's working properly.

Clean outside windows.

Fertilize lawn.

Prune shrubs that have already blossomed.

July

Trim evergreen hedges.

Check bathroom and exhaust fans.

Seal asphalt driveway if necessary.

August

Check garage door track and grease the bearings.

Lubricate interior and exterior door hardware.

Seed new lawns.

If furnace ductwork in basement is not covered over
by a rec room ceiling check to see if joints need new duct tape.

September

Get oil furnace serviced.

Check clothes dryer vent and remove dust particles.

Inspect the grout around tiles and bathtubs.

October

Plant spring flowering bulbs.

Rake leaves and clean up yard.

Drain garden hoses.

Wrap trunks of newly-planted trees.

Check weatherstripping around doors and windows.

November

Clean and store lawn mower and garden tools, sharpen mower blade.

Clean up garden for winter.

Install storm windows.

Remove leaves from eavestrough.

Get fireplace chimney cleaned out before start of heating season.

December

Cover evergreens with burlap to prevent ice damage.

Brush off evergreens after heavy snowfalls.

Bring in firewood.