Spring is beautiful in Maryland. The summer heat is not quite here yet, but the bitter winter winds have left us for the year. As pretty as it is, it also means there are some extra chores and projects you need to do around your home. If you wait much longer, summer will be here and you’ll be kicking yourself for not doing it any sooner! Sweltering heat will arrive before you know it and you won't want to go outside at all, much less do chores out there. Before that happens, get this list done:
#1 Replace your air filters. Let’s start off easy with the first one! You don’t even need to go outside. A lot of people put sweaters into storage and get their beach gear ready for warmer weather, but they forget one important thing: to change their air conditioner filters. A good rule of thumb is to replace your HVAC system’s filter about every three months. This doesn’t just boost the system’s performance and keep it operating efficiently, it also improves your home’s indoor air quality. You’ll be thankful you did this once the air conditioning is working hard.
#2 Trim any tree branches away from your roof or other living areas. Summer is almost here, which means at least a few major thunderstorms are on the way too. Now is the time to remove any nuisance branches. Any branches hanging over your roof, deck, garage, driveway, shed, or pool area should be trimmed right away. If weak and dying, these branches will snap and fall down. This could cause major damage to a structure, car, or person underneath!
#3 Replace your weather stripping. It is sad to say, but the temperature is about to go sky high! Replacing any exterior doors’ worn or damaged weatherstripping by giving them an airtight seal is a fantastic way to keep your air in and the heat out. Of course, this also serves to lower your electric bill as well. This project is really simple, even for someone who doesn’t handle a lot of DIY projects. Weatherstripping in newer doors fits neatly in a groove within the door casing. There’s no adhesive or mess, you simply pull out the old weatherstripping, then cut a new piece to length and insert it in the groove. If your doors are so old and warped this isn't possible, it may be time for a door replacement in Maryland..
#4 Check your roof for any pre existing damage. You want your roof in top shape before the storms arrive. If there's already a loose shingle or two, the damage will get much worse when there is wind and rain. If you wait much longer, you may just find yourself looking for the new roof cost in Washington, DC instead of paying a small repair bill.
#5 Have your HVAC unit maintained. Have a service technician come out and make sure your unit is working as efficiently as possible before the stifling heat arrives. When your HVAC is working really hard, it could totally shut down if it's not in the best condition. That's why a yearly checkup is needed.
Changing your air filters is easy enough, but some of these chores like getting up on your roof and a door replacement in Maryland are better left to professionals. Begin making phone calls now so you can get on their appointment schedule as soon as possible.
