It's time to take advantage of the warmer weather to check and see how your home fared after winter's onslaught. There are many fairly simple steps you can take to ensure you home is safe and spruced up this spring.
Spring outdoor home maintenance for roof
Roof and gutters
Clearing debris from the roof, rain gutters and downspouts can help prevent water from seeping in. In addition, if you suddenly notice evidence of moisture in the ceiling, chances are you have suffered roof damage. If you find any parts on the roof that are leaking or loose, have them replaced immediately.
Power wash patio bricks
Walls and fences
Walls, fences, metal railings and sidewalks all look like new with a good power washing. But before you start, make sure the spray isn't so powerful that it removes paint as well. Test a small, inconspicuous area first. Spray at a 45 degree angle to the surface so you're pushing dirt and algae in front of the spray rather than forcing it directly into the finish. Keep the spray level to the surface so it doesn't force its way under siding, trim
Wood decking showing cracks and age
Decks and balconies
We've all read or seen the headlines: "Deck collapses injuring several," or "Balcony gives way killing two."
To prevent accidents, maintaining your deck and balcony is crucial. Older decks are susceptible to wood rot which can quickly destroy the strength of the structure. Check on top and underneath and replace any boards or wooden supports that are showing large cracks or signs of rot. Reseal any worn finish to keep wood protected.
Watch for rickety stairs, wobbly railings, corroded metal hardware or loose connections to the building. They're signs that your deck may need repair.
And don't forget to hammer in any loose nails as well, now that barefoot season is on its way.
Can you dig it?
Before you start to build that new deck, excavate your fencing or take a hoe to your garden, call BC One Call (1-800-474-8886 or *6886 on your cell). You're asked to call at least three days before you start your project.
"If you dig up a tree or start ripping out your deck and you hit an underground utility line you can be on the hook for thousands of dollars in damage repair," says a Fortis BC spokesperson.
According to Fortis BC it is mandatory to call before digging or you could see yourself digging out of debt, paying off damage done to its infrastructure. Last year, BC One Call saw a huge spike in calls, processing more than 90,000 throughout the province, which tells them that the message is getting across to home owners.
Throughout the summer, Fortis BC will be heading to gardening and lumber stores across the province with its information booth to continue to spread the word about Call BC One program.
Call BC One Call before you dig in your yard.
