Chattanooga Times Free Press

Top 10 tips for outdoor maintenanc­e

- BY CATHY HOBBS

Your home needs regular maintenanc­e to remain safe and secure and keep its curb appeal. Here are 10 tips to remember.

› Check your front door. Doors leading to the outside can be a key source of energy loss.

› Maintain your roof.

Roof maintenanc­e is a critical part of ensuring your home is free of leaks and potential damage. Biannual or annual checkups can go a long way toward keeping your home in good condition.

› Keep trees in check.

Dead trees can be a recipe for disaster, especially during a heavy storm. Removing dead trees and branches is a great way to maintain your home.

› Monitor your HVAC system. A recommenda­tion is a twice-a-year checkup as you change your system between heating and air conditioni­ng.

› Refill driveways.

Your driveway undergoes continuous heavy-duty usage. Repaving or adding fresh gravel can help to prevent potential accidents or damage.

› Evaluate lighting. Pathways and entries should be well-lit.

› Check water connection­s. From your garden hose to outdoor kitchen faucets, ensure connection­s are tight and secure.

› Give it a power wash. Power-washing decks and the exterior of your home can help to make it feel renewed and refreshed.

› Maintain landscapin­g. From pruning to mulching, proper maintenanc­e can help to preserve the investment you have made to beautify your home.

› Do an energy assessment. Making sure seals are tight around windows and doors as well as proper insulation of your home can help save you money on heating and cooling your home.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer.

 ?? DREAMSTIME/TNS ?? Power-washing decks and the exterior of your home can help to make it feel renewed and refreshed.
DREAMSTIME/TNS Power-washing decks and the exterior of your home can help to make it feel renewed and refreshed.

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