As they say, new year - new resolutions. With the increase of daylight and with quite a few long weekends up ahead you can easily allocate some time to spend on working on your house. Or, break-up your tasks down to 2-3 hours per night during the week and save your weekends for the family! Another option is to complete everything in one weekend.

So let's start off with Part 1! Get that pesky to-do-list in gear!

We have compiled an easy break-down of must-do jobs that will not only improve your home’s condition, but will enhance your home’s appearance and increase value. Depending on your work schedule and family time, here are some tips on how to get started, where to start and what to check:

Monday: get everything ready

  • Take a look at what needs to be done, do a thorough scan of the exterior and interior of your house
  • Write down tasks to be completed and supplies you need
  • Gather and prepare tools, protective gear and supplies
  • If you have anything missing from your list go shopping and get it done tonight

 Our suggested supplies and shopping list:

  • binoculars
  • bucket
  • caulk
  • caulk softener
  • cleaning solution
  • cotton towels (or old rags)
  • door hardware
  • epoxy
  • flashlight
  • ladder
  • garden hose
  • garden/yard tools
  • paper towels
  • putty knife
  • tape measure
  • screwdrivers
  • sponge
  • silicone spray lubricant
  • weather stripping

Checking the exterior and interior of your home and property: Make sure to check your attic, basement, garage, roof, exterior facade, gutters and downspouts, windows, doors, patio, balcony, deck, yard and garden areas. You can easily apply these steps to your condo unit, townhouse, commercial (business), or industrial property, or rental – these tips are not only for single-family homes!

Tuesday: start inspecting the exterior of your house

  • Grab your binoculars and ladder
  • First, check the roof from the ground
  • Look for missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, loose metal weatherproofing, look at vents, look at chimney
  • Can you locate potential problems?
  • Second, take a closer look at the problems from the ladder
  • Are these items something you can fix or do you need to call a roofer?

 Next, walk around your house and take a look at the exterior façade:

  • Look at various damages, such as warping, looseness, decay, discoloration, mold, etc.
  • Pay attention to wood siding and trim, are there signs of infestation? Rot?
  • Make the necessary small repairs or seal cracks
  • Check spigots, hoses and check for leaks
  • Is this something you can handle or do you need to contact a siding contractor?

Wednesday: continue inspecting the exterior of your house

  • Check gutters and downspouts: are they aligned? Is there any sagging? Are they clogged?
  • Clear the gutters of leaves and debris by hand and then use a garden hose
  • Check whether the downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation
  • Check gutters and downspouts for proper drainage and look for leaks
  • Use caulking or epoxy to seal holes and seams
  • Do you need to schedule a visit with a gutters and downspouts drainage contractor?

Next, walk around your house and look at the foundation

  • Check for cracks and other imperfections in foundation walls
  • Note all of them and their sizes; recheck them in the fall before the first snow hits
  • If the cracks have expanded or grown, call an exterior housing expert to fix the problem
  • Does rainwater collect anywhere?
  • The ground should slope away from your house toward your yard; if not, you may have to build-up a slope with compacted dirt
  • If this task needs professional work, call for expert help
  • Clean front and back yards
  • Pick-up fallen branches, rake leaves, pick up blown in debris, organize and tidy flower beds

With PRO Home 1 you get honest and straight-forward talk. We know and understand you have a say in the decision making process when it comes to remodeling. This understanding comes from open, honest and direct discussions about your home remodeling options. You, as the homeowner should be empowered by your decisions. We will provide you with a solution that truly meets your needs – both functionally and emotionally, so that you can make an educated decision about your home.