The Tool Barn

Monthly Maintenance Spring Maintenance    

Fall Checklist and Prepare for Winter

                                                     

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Photo

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What to Check

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What to Do

Downspout

Gutters and downspouts

Clean out (more frequently if necessary); inspect and repair weaknesses; check for proper drainage and repair if necessary

Stove pipe

Chimney/stovepipe

Clean flue (more frequently if needed); repair any cracks in flue or any loose or crumbling mortar; check gasket on woodstove and replace if necessary

Siding

Siding

Inspect and clean siding and repair if necessary; check joints between wood and masonry

Caulk

Exterior caulking

Inspect caulking

Glazing on window

Storm windows and doors

Replace any cracked or broken glass, tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames and repaint if necessary; replace broken, worn, or missing hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers; check for broken or missing glazing

Weatherstrip

Window and door weather stripping

Inspect and repair or replace if deteriorating or missing

Waste drain

Drain-waste and vent system

Flush out system

Hot water bleed

Hot-water heating system

Lubricate pump and motor; bleed air from radiators or convectors

Warm air heating

Forced warm-air heating system

Vacuum heat exchanger surfaces; clean and lubricate blower blades and motor; check fan belt tension and adjust if necessary; replace cracked or worn belt, check for leaks and repair if necessary

Gas burner

Gas burner heating system

Clean burners and ports

Oil burner

Oil burner heating system

Have professionally serviced; lubricate fan and motor bearings

Thermostat

Thermostat

Clean heat sensor, contact points, and contacts; check accuracy and replace if necessary

Garage door

Garage doors

Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks; tighten screws

Foundation crack

Foundation

Check grading for proper slope away from foundation wall

Overhanning trees

Trees

Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from roof

Heating

Steam Heating

For steam heating, check shut-off valve for leaks and drain lower water cut-off per manufacturer's instructions

Torn Roof shingle

Roof

Inspect root surface, flashing, eaves, and soffits; repair if necessary

Also see:

Monthly, Quarterly and Semi-annual Checks and Repairs
Spring Cleaning  and Inspection