Do you know what kind of TLC your home needs after the harsh winter months? 2016 Women in Business winner and speaker Marnie Oursler has a handy checklist to help.
Marnie Oursler is a fifth-generation luxury home builder, entrepreneur, industry leader and star of beach home renovation show “Big Beach Builds” on the DIY Network, where she renovates outdated beach homes in Bethany Beach, Del., giving them a new lease on life. The show airs Mondays at 9 p.m. ET.
1. Examine the chimney.
All those winter fires combined with snow, ice and cold can wreak havoc on your chimney. Use binoculars—or, if you feel safe, scurry up onto your roof—to check for any noticeable damage, particularly in the joints between bricks or stones. For a more thorough inspection, hire a professional certified chimney sweep.
2. Clean gutters and downspouts.
Spring storms can spell out big problems for improperly cared for gutter systems. After the last frost of the season, turn your attention to cleaning and repairing your gutters and downspout.
3. Inspect the roof.
Winter storms can cause serious roof damage that, if left unattended, can lead to problems with hefty price tags. While you’re examining the chimney or cleaning the gutters, take the time to inspect the roof as well, checking for missing or loose shingles; shingles that have curled, cracked or buckled; damaged pipes or anything out of the ordinary.
4. Service your air conditioning system.
Schedule a pro to inspect your system before summer kicks into full gear. In the meantime, clean the coils on the outdoor unit, which will help it run more efficiently and effectively. It’s also time to change your interior air filters; dirty filters force your air conditioner to work harder, increasing energy costs and potentially damaging your system.
5. Care for exterior wood and woodwork.
Give your exterior woodwork, wood furniture and wooden structures a healthy dose of TLC after the beating they took all winter (and to prevent damage from the warm sunny days to come). Thoroughly clean decking, fences, railings, pergolas, tables and chairs, trellises and other wood structures with a pressure washer, then dry and reseal them.
See more tips on Marnie’s blog, Marnie’s Notebook.
