Taking care of maintenance issues can go along way in saving money later on. At least once a year, plan to walk around the inside and outside of your home and make a list of jobs to tackle within the near future. See below for a checklist of area's and what to look for.

• Roof:
• Look for loose roof shingles. If they are loose and in good shape they may need to be nailed down and sealed.
• Check for any sealant failures. Check around chimneys, valleys, skylights etc for area's that may need to be re-sealed.
• Chimney:
• Inspect the mortar.
• Install a cap if you don't have one. This keeps out the rain and creatures.
• Can also add a masonry sealer to the exterior masonry.
• Have the chimney professionally inspected every year if you have a fireplace or every other year if not.
• Gutters:
• Remove all leaves and debris from all gutters and downspouts. Water forced into the downspouts can help clear any lingering debris.
• Cut any branches that hang over the roof.
• Windows and Doors:
• Check for drafts at the perimeter of all doors and windows. Repair with caulk as directed.
• Remove screens and install storm windows if owned. Clean before installation. (Clean screens before installing them in the spring).
• Grade:
• Verify that the grade slopes away from the house at the perimeter. It should slope 1" per foot. The grade should also be 6" to 8" away from the bottom of siding.
• Concrete:
• Road salt and water can cause problems to concrete. Water that gets into crevices and freezes can break up concrete. A sealer can help prevent this and also damage that road salt can do.
• Air Conditioning:
• In winter climates cover the top of the condenser. It is also recommended to pour ¾ cup of household bleach into the condensate drip line to prevent bacteria.
• Furnace:
• Change or clean your filter on your furnace. Check recommendations made by the manufacturer.
• Water Heater:
• Drain 1 bucket of water from bottom of water heater every month to prevent rust build up.
• Outdoor Faucets:
• To prevent freezing of water in the pipes, close off the shut-off valve inside the house which controls the outdoor spigot. Then go outside and turn on the spigot to allow all water to be removed. Go back into the house and turn the ferrule nut, (small nut on the side of the valve) so the hole faces down, provide bucket and complete the draining process. Leave exterior spigot open.
• Vents:
• Verify all vents are clear from debris.