As a homeowner and a busy person, it is easy to overlook things that need regular upkeep in and around your house. This is especially true when it comes to an out-of-sight, out-of-mind scenario. Follow these tips to ensure you keep problems at bay or prevent them from getting out of hand.
Pest and Bug Problems
If you find even one ant in your kitchen, take care of the problem before it gets worse by contacting a licensed professional to mitigate the issue. Experts in pest control are trained in the best practices to help find the source of their entry and eliminate any colonies that have taken hold.
When you contact your exterminator, let them know of any other issues you may be having with bugs or rodents. Before they arrive, walk the perimeter of your home to look for openings or spaces where they may be entering. Look down to the foundation and up to the roof during your inspection. Walk further from your home and inspect the ground for signs of rodent infestations, as well.
Clogged Rain Gutters
Rain gutters are necessary parts of any home, yet they are often overlooked until an issue arises. You will usually notice problems during or after a rainstorm. When your gutters are clogged, water will drip over the sides, generally toward your foundation or even against the side of the house, instead of flowing freely through the gutters and down away from your home.
After heavy rain, walk around your home and inspect the area where the foundation meets the ground. Take note of any pooled water or spongy and muddy ground. If you find these telltale signs, it is time to pull out a ladder and climb up to assess the situation.
You can take on the task of unclogging the rain gutters yourself if you feel comfortable doing so. A lower one-level home will be easier than a two-story. You may need to hire a professional to tackle a higher roofline or multi-story home.
Trees Over the Property Line
If you notice any trees hanging over the property line into your neighbor’s yard, you have options. If the branches provide desirable shade and look nice, ask your neighbors if they would like you to trim the branches back to the property line or leave them. If they wish for the branches to stay on their side, implement a plan with them to maintain the tree to ensure uniform growth. This will keep the tree healthy and balanced as it grows.
If your neighbor requests the tree to be cut back, consider hiring a professional arborist to reshape the tree over your property only. This will help it grow in a shape and pattern that will be more aesthetically suited to your space.
If you decide to take on the task of pruning yourself, this video will serve as a helpful guide.
No matter the maintenance item, it is always in your best interest to address it as soon as it arises instead of putting it off for another day. When you take care of concerns immediately, they are easier to remedy than when you allow them to take hold and become an even bigger problem.
