July Home Maintenance Hints

·         Check all exterior walls for peeling or cracked paint .Usually, paint on south- and west-facing walls deteriorates faster and requires more frequent recoating than paint on north- and east-facing walls.

·         Inspect brick or masonry siding for cracks or missing mortar. Repair with fresh mortar or concrete caulk.

·         Inspect roof for cracks and loose or missing shingles and repair as necessary. Check attic spaces underneath the roof for leak stains, especially from "flashed" areas in roof valleys and around chimneys and vent stacks.

·         Inspect the operation of automatic light timers and motion-detector systems, especially if you plan a vacation.

·         Prune trees and shrubs so that branches do not come in contact with exterior siding.

·         Clean and repair cracks in concrete driveways using epoxy patching material. Repair asphalt driveways using asphalt patching material. Seal asphalt driveways every other year.

·         Inspect foundation walls for tunnels or dirt bridges, which are signs of termites. If you suspect termites, contact a professional exterminator.