January Checklist

• The recent ice storm wreaked havoc on many homes and yards in Toronto. Now is the time for pruning or removing those damaged, dead or diseased trees. The trees are dormant and there is less chance of disturbing nearby plantings. And, prices are lower in the off season.
• January is an ideal time to take stock of your home and plan and prioritize home renovation and repair projects. Make a list of things that need to be done, and start lining up quotes from contractors on the jobs at the top of the list.
• Keep an eye out for condensation and damp areas on the walls and ceilings of your home. Prevent excess humidity in the home by keeping your humidistat below 40 per cent.
• If you detect a cold draft in the basement this month, check the vents in the crawl space to make sure they are closed. (Remember to open them for ventilation in the spring.)
• Clean or replace the filters on your furnace, humidifier and air cleaner to improve the quality of air in your home.
• As roof problems are often revealed in the winter months, keep an eye out for interior leaks. Leaks are easiest to detect in an unfinished attic. If your attic is finished, check the plaster for stains. Flashing around skylights, chimneys and vent pipes are often the source. Call a roofing expert immediately to assess the problem and prevent further damage.
• This month is the ideal time to tackle some of the minor repairs you’ve been putting off. Tighten those loose screws in the basement door hinge, hang that picture that’s been sitting there for weeks, clean out the hall closet and install organizers, paint the guest room, redo the bathroom, spruce up the kitchen…

Source: Homeservice Club