Resources and Services
Quick Tips
Checklist: Spring Maintenance
Roof - Inspect roof surface flashing, eaves, and soffits.
Gutters and downspouts - Clean out; inspect and repair weaknesses; check for proper drainage.
Siding - Inspect and clean siding.
Exterior caulking - Inspect caulking and replace if deteriorating.
Window sills, door sills, and thresholds - Fill cracks, caulk edges, repaint; replace if necessary.
Window and door screens - Clean screening and repair or replace; tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames and repaint; replace broken, worn, or missing hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers.
Drain waste and vent system - Flush out system.
Hot-water heating system - Lubricate circulating pump and motor.
Evaporative air conditioner - Clean unit; check belt tension and adjust; replace cracked or worn belt.
Heat pump - Lubricate blower motor.
Foundation - Check foundation walls, floors, concrete, and masonry for cracking, heaving, or deterioration.
Siding and trim - Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure.
Deck and porches - Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs, and railings for loose members and deterioration.
Landscape - Cut back and trim all vegetation and overgrown bushes from structures.
Flashing - Check flashings around all surface projections and sidewalls.
Antenna - Check antenna and satellite dish supports.
Sprinkler - Check lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves and exposed lines.
Water well - Consider having well water tested for safety.
More Popular Entries
Additions & Remodels
Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Details Make Home Offices Work
Reinvent Your Home
Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors
Condominiums
Glossary of Real Estate Terms
House Buying Mistakes
Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Remove Rust From Water
Tip: Cleaning Dishwasher Stains
Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Architect
Carpentry & Cabinets
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Steel vs. Wood Framing
Reface Cabinet
Cleaning Services
Breathing Better in Your Home
Tip: Cleaning Fireplace Burns
Choosing a Maid Service
Concrete, Brick & Stone
Specialty Finishes for Concrete Patios and Other Flatwork
Installing Masonry Flatwork
Pouring Concrete Driveway or Walkway
Consumer Guides
Remodeling Increases Value
Planning Small Plumbing Installation
Window Replacement
Design Ideas
Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades
Patios for Living
Electrical, Telephone & Data
While You’re Away
Generator Repair
Illuminate Your Kitchen
Expert Advice
Window and Door Solutions
Refinishing Hardwood Flooring
Moisture Build-up on Windows
Flooring
Carpet Types
Damaged Tiles
Ceramic Tile
Handyman Services
The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Find a Handyman for Small Repairs
What Happened to the Handyman?
Heating & Cooling
Understanding Boiler Radiator Systems
Installing Central Heating
Checklist: Cold Weather Survival Tips
Home Construction
Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Timber Framed Homes
Understanding Pre-manufactured and Kit Homes
Landscape, Decks & Fences
Landscape Design
Using a Tree Stump Removal Service
Find a Garden Hose
Moving & Storage
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It
Finding a Truck Rental Service
Checklist: Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Other Services
Assessing Storm Damage
Tents for a Special Occasions
Checklist: Protect Your House from Fire
Painting & Staining
Exterior Painting
Quality Paint Jobs
Planning for House Painting
Plumbing
Install a Water Heater
Install a Solar Water Heater
How to Hire a Plumber
Quick Tips
Tip: Repair a Septic System
Checklist: Childproofing Your Home and Yard
Tip: Repair Concrete Steps
Roofing, Siding & Gutters
Ventilation is Key to How Long Your Roof Will Last
Tip: Roof Leaks
How to Buy Roofing
SP Feature Article
The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services
Walls & Ceilings
Understanding Plaster
Drywall Panels and Sheets
Drywall Installation Techniques
Windows & Doors
Window and Door Solutions
The U-factor of Thermal Replacement Windows
Security Bar Install