Home's exterior needs a good once-over in spring

Homes don't take care of themselves.

The elements take their toll on the exterior, so to make sure it stays in good repair, regular maintenance is in order.

Here's ourchecklist for spring:

Gutters and downspouts: Even if you cleaned them in the fall, a "mulch" can collect in the gutters that can hasten rust and deterioration, and make gutters sluggish during spring showers.

Use a garden hose, a gutter scoop and a nylon brush to flush the gutters and downspouts. Use a wire brush to remove rust and peeling paint. Repair leaks and seal joints with a high-quality exterior grade caulk. Prime bare spots and add a fresh coat of paint.

Siding: No matter the type of siding, it needs periodic cleaning. One of the best means of brightening dingy siding is with a thorough pressure-washing with water. Check for cracks, peeling paint, missing or damaged mortar and caulking, and make the needed repairs.

Roof leaks: Inspect the roof for loose or missing shingles. Binoculars work well for making an on-the-ground inspection. Look in the attic for water stains on the underside of the roof sheathing and on the rafters. They are telltale signs of a roof leak that might yet produce enough water to make its way to your ceiling.

Unless the roof needs replacement, damaged shingle replacement, flashing repair and roofing cement or caulking usually will do the trick.

Caulking: Spring is a good time to caulk around window trim and door frames, especially if you missed doing it in the fall. Do this after you have washed the exterior siding. Caulk tends to crack in concrete, foundations and basement walls.

Window and door screens: If you have trouble getting a good view of your spring flowers through your freshly washed windows, it might mean your window screens need cleaning or replacement. Remove window and door screens and give them a cleaning with a solution of powdered laundry detergent and hot water. Brush the screens with a nylon brush and give the screens and frames a rinsing with a garden hose.

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Home's exterior needs a good once-over in spring