Covenant Home Improvements - Siding, Vinyl Replacement Windows, Skylights, , Roof Repairs, Claremont, Lebanon, Hanover, Woodstock, General Contractor New Hampshire, CertainTeed, Central Vermont, Central New Hampshire

Foundational issues

Inspect basement for cracks and leaks, and moisture. Sealing basements is crucial, particularly since mildew and fungal damage are no longer regularly covered by homeowner’s insurance policies.

Clean and check sump pump and related drainage system.

Clean out basement window wells.

Windows

Remove storm windows, make any repairs, and store for the season. Label storm windows for easy application in the Fall.

Wash insides of windows. Inspect weather-stripping and replace as needed.

Inspect screens, make repairs, wash & install.

Schedule outsides of windows to be washed before the summer is at its hottest!

Safety on Time

April 2, 2007: Daylight Savings Time begins. Spring forward! Move clocks ahead 1 hour.

Change batteries in smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm.

Check fire extinguishers to be sure they are fully charged.

House/Outside

Hose-off exterior siding with anti-fungal wash. Scrub off any mildew.

Check exterior siding for winter damage and schedule repairs.

Call CHI to estimate and schedule exterior painting projects. The best exterior painting months fall between mid-May to mid-October.

Inspect exterior railings and stairs for stability & cosmetic needs. Schedule repairs.

Lubricate garage track and hinges with oil.

Interior

Schedule your interior painting projects during the next 2 months for best paint-curing conditions of the year.

Clean carpets.

Heating & Cooling

Beat the rush and have your heating system serviced now.

Install window air conditioners. Uncover wall units. Service your A/C following manufacturers’ instructions. Clean around air conditioner compressor.

Check dehumidifier and maintain following manufacturers’ instructions for your unit. Be sure drainage route is not blocked.

Inspect attic vents to make sure they are properly sized, free of debris, and ready to vent for summer.

Check area around water heater for leaks. If you have hard water, drain 2 gallons of water.

Kitchen and Bathrooms
Inspect caulk and grout in shower and around sinks. Repair as needed. Do not wait until cold weather to caulk, as it will not cure as well in winter.

Open up unused faucets and run for 1 minute.

Pour a solution of hot water, vinegar, and baking soda down drains.

Decks and Porches

Inspect decks and porches, removing leaves, dirt, or debris caught between boards. Rake area beneath deck to remove accumulation of debris.

Pressure-wash your composite wood decks and natural wood decks with anti-fungal wash.

Natural wood decks should be re-sealed every-other-year, after the first year (during which they should not be sealed at all).

Outside

Clean gutters and downspouts. Schedule repairs if needed.

Roof

Inspect roof shingles for cracks. Repair cracks with caulk or replace. Be sure valleys of roof are free of debris.

If you need a new roof, schedule it between early Spring and early Fall to take advantage of the best sealing by the sun’s rays.