Westworld Alberta

48 W E S T W O R L D A L B E R T A | S P R I N G 2 0 1 5 gary bullock/three-in-a-box 4 Clear leaves and debris from eaves troughs. Look for leaks and replace cracked or brittle caulking and weatherstripping. 5 Secure loose downspouts. Make sure they're pointing away from the founda- tions, and not draining into flowerbeds, which sponge up water that can freeze and cause flooding later. 6 Check your landscaping grade: A two-to-three-metre downslope away from your home is ideal for proper drainage. This is best achieved pre- winter – but check there hasn't been any change or sinkage. 7 Inspect your sump pump: Check that it has power, the backup battery is charged and there are no loose or broken wires, or leaks. Confirm the pump is working by pouring water into the well and following the flow outside. 8 Change your furnace filter. Do this every three months, or sooner if the filter looks dirty. Also give the furnace a once-over for leaks and cracked hoses, and check the humidifier for leaks and calcium buildup. 9 Clean the dryer vent. Also look for washing-machine leaks, and vacuum under and behind appliances to remove dirt and flam- mable debris. 10 Check indoor foundation walls for moisture and any cracks; fill and seal if necessary. 11 Fix plumbing leaks. Check outdoor faucets for cracks, clear the traps and drains of indoor fixtures and check that water is flowing outward and freely in your sewage backwater valve, if it's accessible. 12 Clear window and sliding-door tracks. Scoop out weep holes and lubri- cate the moving parts. 13 Inspect your hot water tank. Look for leaking, as well as any deterioration in the overall condition. 1 Shovel snow away from the exterior walls so that water doesn't seep inside during the spring melt. 2 Inspect the roof. Look for wind, snow or ice damage, and make sure the roof shingles and flashing are secure and in good condition. Arrange for profes- sional repairs if neces- sary. If you go onto the roof yourself, wear a safety harness. 3 Chip off icicles. When these form along your eaves, it may be a sign that your roof has a hot spot. If too much ice builds up, water can work its way under the shingles and seep in. SPRING REFRESH SHIPSHAPE FOR SPRING Keep your home safe, efficient and dry as winter melts away with these home-maintenance essentials You may be eligible to top up your sewer backup coverage. Speak to an AMA insurance advisor today. 1-800-615-5897 1 6 7 8 9 2 4 3 5 10 11 12 13

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