Spring Home Maintenance                      

As we make for warmer temperatures, backyard BBQ's, and more time spent outside, now is the time to prepare your home and life for Spring in Hampton Roads. To assist you in having a worry-free Spring and Summer, here are some easy steps you can take now to prepare your home and to help ensure it is well-maintained throughout the summer.

• After the March winds subside, clean your gutters and while you are at it, check for loose or leaky gutters.
• Examine the exterior of the chimney for any signs of damage. If you use your fireplace during the winter, hire a chimney sweep to clean out any debris that could cause fires.
• Inspect concrete slabs and fix any cracks to avoid drainage issues.
• Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage and check the actual hoses for dry rot.
• Inspect your AC unit before you really need it. Hiring a qualified heating and cooling contractor will help ensure that your system is working at peak performance when you are ready to use it.
• Clean windows and inspect any doors, windows, and screens. Changes in temperature can damage any sealants and cracks near windows can cause significant air loss. 
• Clean or replace all HVAC and furnace filters, which will help your appliances run cleaner and will save you money.
• Drain your water heater which will remove any sediment build-up and extend the life of your water heater.
• Remove yard and garden debris, especially which surround your AC unit, generator, propane tanks and other outdoor storage areas and devices.
• Prepare your lawn mower by clearing debris from the moving parts, sharpening the mower blade, and adding new fuel and fresh oil.
• Check all battery-powered lawn equipment to ensure it is ready for summer use.
• Pressure wash your house (gently) and repair any rotten wood. Pressure-washing will remove any accumulated dirt, mold, and stains from siding, decks, driveways, garage floors, fences, and lawn furniture. Pressure washers can be rented inexpensively or if you would like a referral, give me a call.
• Clean and reseal your deck to protect wood and slow deterioration and it is ready for Memorial Day weekend!

For your yard:

• Apply pre-emergent to your lawn if you have crabgrass.
• Start growing seeds for your summer garden.
• Prune your roses to encourage more and healthier blooms in the upcoming season.

Managing Organization: Yes it is tax season! The very best part of doing taxes to me is getting rid of old documents. According to the IRS, you must keep your records that support an item of income, deduction, or credit shown on your return until the period of limitations for that tax return runs out. Check their website for specifics, but in general keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your original return. Keep records for 7 years if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction.

Have a beautiful Spring!!