HOME IMPROVEMENT

Fresh feeling for the new season

By Connie Sutton

Spring is finally in sight for Four Corners residents! Before daydreaming of warmer days, take care of those spring cleaning tasks. The winter season here can be brutal on a home, so it is important to clean up and address necessary repairs.

Clean sweep

Warmer days signal the start of cracked windows and open doorways after months of staying shuttered against the cold. During the winter, dust, dirt and allergens are trapped inside the home. Clear out the space to make it feel fresh by sweeping all the dust that’s settled. Wipe any surfaces that may have collected dust throughout the winter with a microfiber cloth. Before sweeping the floors, remove all area rugs, runners and mats, and place them outside for a good beating. Then give the floors and carpets a comprehensive sweep.

Roof matters

Once all the snow is melted, see how the roof weathered the season. Remove the various bundles of pine needles, leaves and other debris that may have settled on the roof or in the gutters. Spring rains can cause expensive damage if water can’t properly runoff. Don’t forget to check for cracked or missing shingles that will need to be replaced. If owners notice any shingle-shift, inspect the fasteners.

Keep cool

Spring means the return of ceiling fans, swamp coolers and air conditioning units. Dust the blades of ceiling fans, then switch it to rotate counter-clockwise for maximum cooling. If the fan is outdated, consider replacing it with a newer, energyefficient model. If the home relies on an air conditioning unit to keep things cool, change the filter, check hose connections for leaks and double check that pans are draining freely. It’s a good idea to have an HVAC professional perform an inspection to make any necessary repairs or upgrades before temperatures rise. Consider repairing or replacing the economizer to ensure that the unit is running as efficiently as possible.

Clear clutter

Now is the time to rummage through old boxes in attics, garages and closets and donate, sell or trash the excess items. Keep sentimental items and important keepsakes and send the rest to your local donation center. Once your space is cleared you’re prepped for deep cleaning and big DIY projects.

Deck check

Chances are your deck has been buried under the snow for a while now, but spring thaw means it’s time to get back out to it! Once the chance of snow has passed do a good sweep to remove any leaves and debris that might have accumulated between boards. Then, check the deck’s condition. Look for warped, loose or splintered boards. If the finish on your deck is faded or worn, now is the time to clean, stain and reseal it. Deck improvements always offer a strong return on investment, so maintain this stunning feature.

Outdoor paradise

Of course, preparing the outdoor living space is on the top of springtime to-do lists. It can entail scrubbing down patio furniture, clearing debris from garden beds and landscaping. When sprucing up these outdoor spaces this spring, consider the lighting. Now is a great time to make plans to add security lighting, landscape lights and architectural uplighting can have a significant impact on your resale value. For the most energy-efficient upgrade make sure to use LED fixtures.