There’s no time like the present…or entering a new season…to start thinking about your home’s maintenance needs. Whether you like to tackle these tasks on your own or outsource them to the professionals, sticking to a monthly maintenance schedule will help to keep your home looking and performing its best. Regular checks to both the exterior and interior features of your property will aid in reducing untimely breakdowns and save you money in the long run. I’m breaking it down into manageable monthly lists so that you’ll still have time to get out and enjoy your weekends!

To-Dos:

Interior –

• Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
• Flush hot water heater and remove sediment
• Change furnace filters
• Clean garbage disposal
• Clean microwave and oven
• Clean range hood and filters
• Clean refrigerator coil
• Daylight Savings begins on March 8th – set clocks forward 1 hour and change batteries if needed

Exterior –

• Visually inspect roofing
• Check drainage pipes and grates
• Inspect windows screens for damage and repair or replace as needed
• Clean and sharpen garden tools/inspect wheelbarrow
• Test gas/battery powered lawn equipment and schedule service appointments if needed
• Clear debris and leaves from yard and garden beds
• Cut back ornamental grasses and perennial foliage
• Spread Step 1 weed preventer and fertilizer on your lawn
• Spread grass seed on bare patches