a viral trend for good

​​HOM-IMPROV-20/21:  Staying home during COVID-19 has given rise to a different kind of virus. Thousands of homeowners and renters as well, have turned to cleaning, organizing and painting to make use of otherwise idle time.

Renovating is great for increasing the value of your home, but regular home maintenance is the easiest, least expensive way to improve your crib! Right now is a good time to catch up on house cleaning, organizing and simple seasonal chores.

With a little effort - at almost no cost, you can get your home freshened up, organized and looking great for months, even years to come.

Outdoors

• Clean the eaves troughs.
• Fix loose trim and peeling paint.
• Replace or repair loose, or damaged shingles.
• Trim shrubs and trees, keeping branches one meter from the house.
• Replace damaged deck boards and apply a preserving stain.
• Check outdoor faucets for leaks.
• Clean windows, lubricate hardware and window tracks. Replace damaged screens.
• Check doors and windows for cracks and gaps. Caulk, replace weatherstripping.
• Clean your driveway, porch, walkway.
• Fertilize the lawn. Add soil and seed to fill sketchy areas.

​Indoors

• Inspect the attic for pests, mould or evidence of leaks. If your budget allows, top up insulation. Check showmethegreen.ca for grants and incentives toward energy improvements.
• Replace the furnace filter.
• Clean your HRV (air exchanger) if you have one.
• Clear out the dryer vent.
• Check the washing machine and dishwasher hoses for cracks or leaks.
• Test GFCI receptacles in the bathroom, kitchen, as well as outdoors - and AFCI's in the electrical panel.
• Test smoke and CO alarms. Replace older, expired units.
• Prime and paint dirty, scuffed or tired-looking walls and trim.

Maintenance is time well-spent, it will save you money in the long run and give you a good feeling, or at least keep you distracted during this tough time.