Home-ownership comes with its share of routine seasonal tasks and chores. But keeping track of what needs to be done - and when - can be a challenge. To help homeowners stay on top of their maintenance projects, home improvement retailer Lowe's offers easy-to-follow checklists for each season of the year and covers both inside and outside chores. Get your home ready for fall and winter with these tasks:
Indoor Tasks:
ü When you turn your clocks back, change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
ü Install weather stripping where needed around the windows.
ü Have the furnace professionally inspected.
ü If needed, set traps for rodents.
ü Dust blinds and vacuum curtains throughout the house.
ü Clean kitchen and bathroom cabinets and throw away outdates food, medicine and cosmetics.
ü Change or clean furnace filters. Consult the manufacturer's instructions to determine how frequently the filters should be replaced.
ü Clean kitchen appliances inside and out, including refrigerator coils.
ü Maintain clean drains by adding one-half cup of baking soda followed by on-half cup white vinegar. After 10 minutes, flush with boiling water.
Outdoor Tasks:
ü Clean gutters and downspouts.
ü Inspect the roof and chimney for cracks and damage, and have them repaired.
ü Rake and shred leaves to use as mulch or dispose of them.
ü Close or install storm windows.
ü Remove hoses from spigots and drain, store indoors, coiled and flat.
ü Store outdoor furniture and cushions.
ü Walk around the house and check for open crawl space vents and close them before cooler temperatures set in.
ü Cover your central air conditioning unit, and remove and store window air conditioners.
ü Clean and store garden tools.
Cynthia Schmier, Broker/Owner
CRS, CDPE, CNE, CIAS, MDI, 5-STAR
RE/MAX Country
(360) 400-3475
www.cynthia-online.com
