January HOMEwork

As you are cleaning up from the holidays, January is the perfect time to take a hard look at your home and prioritize repair or renovation projects. It’s a good idea to make a list of things that need to be done and start lining up quotes from contractors now before the trades get busier in the spring. You might even save money by having the work done before the spring rush!

• Also make a list of all those annoying little jobs that need to be done and start tackling them this month: hang those window blinds that have been sitting there for weeks, clean out the hall closet and install organizers, paint the guest room, redo the bathroom, spruce up the kitchen.
• Clean or replace the filters on your furnace, humidifier and air cleaner to improve the quality of air in your home.
• Winter is a good time for pruning or removing dead and diseased trees. The trees are dormant and there is less chance of disturbing nearby plantings.
• Keep an eye on your eavestrough system this winter. Icicles hanging down from gutters indicate blockages that could contribute to ice damming and expensive roof damage. Make sure gutters are clear of debris, and have splits and broken hangers repaired.
• Roof problems are often revealed in the winter months. Leaks are easiest to detect in an unfinished attic. If your attic is finished, check the plaster for stains. Call a roofing expert immediately to assess the problem and prevent further damage.
• Prevent excess humidity in the home by keeping your humidistat below 40 per cent. Keep a watchful eye out for condensation and damp areas on the walls and ceilings of your home.

Courtesy: Homeservice Club