nm (EME Homeowners Se oes a —_ Easy MaintenanceProjects by Scott McGillivray (NAPSA)—Tackling a few do-it- yourself projects now can help you keep your homein tip-top shapeall year long. Top up yourattic insulation. Many older homes have inadequate levels ‘| of insulation in the . attic that wouldn't | meet today’s building code. Topping it up will help to |, save on energy consumption and TY _keep your house cooler in the summer months. A McGillivray great product for this task is Roxul Comfortbatt insulation. It’s easy to install, cuts simply with a serrated blade or bread knife, and protects against fire, moisture and mold. Aim for a depth of 16 inches (41 cm) or an R-value of 50. Insulating properly could also provide added benefits such as improving the longevity of your air conditioner by reducing stress on the unit as temperaturesrise. Inspect your roof and make minor repairs. Winter can be especially hard on a roof. Look for ice, hail or water damage. Replace any cracked or missing shingles and clear any debris. Clean yourgutters.It’s not glamor- ous work, but your home's gutters play an essential role in moving water away from your home and preventing damage. Considerinstalling gutter guardsto ensure your gutters remain functional and free from debris. Inspect windows and doorsandre- caulk where necessary. Because a prop- You can live more comfortably and save yourself time, trouble and money by making sure your attic has enough insulation. er seal is essential in both heating and cooling seasons,this job should be performed twice a year to protect against drafts and moisture, and to keep insects out. Worn weatherstripping should also be replaced. Other simple jobs include fixing leaky faucets, repairing and resealing decks, inspecting the foundation, and scheduling a checkup for your HVAC system. The key is being honest about what you can handle and, when in doubt,calling in the pros. For more information, visit www. roxul.com. Scott McGillivray is the award-winning TV host of the hit series “Income Property” on HGTV Canada, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author and educator. Follow him on Twitter @ smegillivray.
