Ellen PhillipsQ: I've noticed several maintenance issues in my home that could cost a fortune to repair if I don't watch out. Do you have any price-saving solutions for me? - Gus Grateful
Dear Mr. Grateful: You're smart to try to nip these in the bud before you face a money-chomping situation. I'm a big advocate of the safer-than-sorry strategy. Woman's Day magazine offers some helpful hints for the particular problems facing you.
1 Climbing vines and other types of greenery can destroy siding and brick and attract rodents. I don't know about you, but I don't want any more chipmunk families digging holes in my flowerbeds. Climbing vines reduce air circulation which, in turn, encourage mold and mildew, which can cause wood shingles to deteriorate, pull away from the house or rot. My pest control tech advises cutting shrubbery away from the house to give the treatment a clear path for insect protection. If you're having issues, once you've cleared the mess away from siding, use a power washer to clean it.
2 Cracks or missing mortar on your home's exterior or in the basement allow access for groundwater, rain, dirt and pests. Leaks, damp spots, musty smells, mold and mildew occur if cinder blocks or concrete are not properly sealed.
Check with your local home supply store for the best method to fill cracks and openings and re-seal cinder blocks and cement.
3 Windows and doors, if not properly cared for, will not protect you from the elements. If windowpanes are broken or caulk is missing, cracked or shrunken, you may have severe water damage to window frames and walls. That could also compromise your home's heating and cooling.
First, clean window locks, tracks and opening mechanisms, then apply WD-40. (Google this miracle product to discover its many and varied uses.) Patch the caulk and, if necessary, add press-in weather stripping and a new metal strip under the door.
4 Roof and gutters can be huge problem areas. Packed gutters, compromised roofs and cracked flashing can cause leakage. Ceiling stains in the attic are often the first indication of trouble. Discolored or broken shingles should be replaced.
Many Hamilton County and North Georgia homeowners filed insurance claims following storms three to four years ago for this very reason. Take a page from my book and have your gutters cleaned in spring and late fall after leaves are on the ground.
It's savvy to check your roof and gutters after a major storm. Make sure your gutter connections and downspouts are in good condition.
And consider hiring a pro to do the work; it's just too dangerous for a novice or do-it-yourselfer, especially if your house has a sloping roof.
Contact Ellen Phillips at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com.