Angie's List

PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ― Spring is here, but your home may still have the winter blahs. In this weeks Angie's List report, Jim Donovan finds landscaping projects are at the top of many home-owner to-do lists.

"You can make your neighbors green with envy by doing some very simple things to make your house have great curb appeal." says Angie's List founder Angie Hicks.

She says start off with flowers.

"Talk to your lawn and garden company or your landscaper. Talk to them about what flowers will grow best in your yard," Hicks said. "Think about growing flowers that grow naturally in this area. Also check the soil and improve and fertilize the soil because that's going to be key to a great looking garden."

Angie also recommends investing in the future.

"Trees are a great investment. On average they'll add anywhere from 3-7% on the value of your home. Plus, they can save you money on energy costs," she said. "Well placed trees that shade your house during the heat of the sun can really cut down on those air conditioning bills."

Some people go overboard in their yard, adding costly features like fountains. Remember, they are expensive to install and maintain and even more costly if you hate it, and want to rip it out.

Angie's Spring Clean Checklist:

- Scrutinize your crawl space for water accumulation or excessive moisture, and keep an eye out for water damage on the sub-floor and joists beneath kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas.

- Using your garden hose, wash your siding and deck to remove film left by dirty snow and rains. Attach a soft-bristled, long-handled car brush to the hose for some extra help. Use a mild cleanser to get those tough to clean spots.

- Freshen up your home this spring with deep cleaning - to get those areas of dirt you don't see. Weekly vacuuming just isn't enough. Even the best vacuum cleaner will not be able to reach the deep down dirt. Experts recommend a professional carpet cleaning every 12 to 18 months. More frequently if you have allergies or pets.

- If you're sick of staring out a dirty window, a good scrub may be in order. You can tackle windows that are on ground level, but call a pro for those areas higher up that require a ladder.

- Give your roof an "once-over" for damage inflicted during the winter. Depending on the style and pitch of your roof, and your feelings about heights, you may want to use a ladder and a pair of binoculars, look for missing or broken shingles and harm caused by snow, ice or wind. If you don't feel comfortable on a ladder, call a professional before the busy season begins.

- Remove wet leaves and debris from your deck, front porch and around your house on a regular basis. Allowing the debris to accumulate can trap water, lead to staining or mold build-up, as well as create an ideal environment for termites.

- Save time, and potentially money, by getting on your chimney cleaning services schedule now, rather than waiting until their busy season next fall. Especially if you have a wood-burning fireplace, creosote, a by-product of burning wood, can build up in your chimney and create a fire hazard.

- If you've postponed tool care, now is a good time to get in the garage and take a closer look at your garden equipment. Does the mower need serviced? It's a good idea to call now. Garden service companies will get busier in the next couple of months. Don't forget to clean and sharpen other garden tools as well.

- Spring rains are just around the corner, so be sure your sump pump works properly. To test, fill the sump pit with water and go outside to make sure the pump is actually discharging water. You can also eliminate any build-up in the system by pouring white vinegar through the unit.

- Schedule to have your air conditioner serviced. Technicians can test your air conditioner as long as the temperature is above about 60 degrees. Calling now can get you on their schedule for one of those first warm days of spring.

Related Links:
 www.angieslist.com

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