Six Spring Home Tasks You Can Start Now

March is a funny month for homeowners. One day it feels like winter still has a firm grip on things, and the next day you’re thinking about open windows and backyard barbecues. While it may be too early for some outdoor projects, there are plenty of practical things you can do now to get your home ready for spring.

A little attention in March can prevent headaches later when the weather really warms up. Here are six simple spring home tasks you can start now, plus a few things that are better to wait on.

1. Clean and Check Your Gutters

Even if there’s still some snow around, this is a good time to take a look at your gutters. Winter storms often leave behind debris like twigs, leaves, and shingle grit. When the spring rains arrive, clogged gutters can quickly turn into overflowing water that runs down your siding or pools near your foundation.

If the weather cooperates, clear out debris and make sure downspouts are directing water away from the house. It’s also a good time to check that gutters are securely attached and not sagging from those ice dams.

2. Replace Your Furnace Filter

Your heating system has been working hard all winter. One of the simplest things you can do for your home and your indoor air quality is to replace the furnace filter.

A fresh filter helps your system run more efficiently and keeps dust from circulating through the house. If you have pets or allergies in the household, this small task can make a noticeable difference.

3. Check Windows and Doors for Drafts

March is a perfect time to track down drafts before the heating season ends. Walk around your home and check windows and doors for cold air leaks. You might notice worn weatherstripping, small gaps, or caulking that has cracked over time.

Sealing these areas now can help lower energy bills and keep your home more comfortable year-round. Most fixes are inexpensive and quick, but they can make a surprisingly big difference.

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

This is one of those tasks that homeowners often mean to do but forget. Take a few minutes to test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the house.

Replace batteries if needed and make sure units are working properly. If your detectors are more than ten years old, it may be time to replace them entirely. It’s a small step that plays a big role in keeping your family safe.

5. Look for Signs of Winter Damage

Winter weather can be tough on a home. Walk around your property and look for any visible damage from snow, ice, or wind.

Pay attention to things like loose shingles, damaged siding, or areas where ice may have built up during the winter. Catching these issues early can prevent small problems from becoming bigger repairs once spring storms arrive.

6. Start Decluttering Indoor Spaces

While it might be too early to tackle yard work, March is a great time to focus on the inside of the house. Closets, mudrooms, and storage areas tend to collect a lot of winter gear.

Take some time to organize boots, coats, and winter equipment. Donate items you no longer use and make space for the warmer months ahead. A little indoor organization now makes the full spring cleaning push much easier later.

What to Wait On

A few spring tasks are better saved for slightly warmer weather. Exterior painting, power washing, deck staining, window cleaning, and major landscaping work typically need consistently mild temperatures to be done properly.

For now, focus on inspection, maintenance, and indoor projects. Once Connecticut settles into real spring, you’ll be glad you got the early work out of the way.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Eight Quick Home Projects to Tackle This August

August is a great time to roll up your sleeves and knock out some easy home improvement jobs before fall rolls in. Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value or just give it a little glow-up, these projects don’t require a contractor or a ton of time. Just a weekend, some elbow grease, and maybe a cold drink or two.

1. Clean and Seal the Deck

Your deck’s taken a beating all summer through the sun, rain, foot traffic, and maybe a few BBQ sauce mishaps. Give it a good power wash and reseal it. You’ll prevent wood rot, keep splinters at bay, and extend the life of the wood. Bonus: it’ll look brand new heading into Labor Day.

2. Swap Out Air Filters

Your HVAC system’s been running hard. Dirty filters make it less efficient and kick dust and allergens back into the air. Swap in clean filters and breathe easier. It’s cheap, fast, and makes a real difference for indoor air quality.

3. Caulk Windows and Doors

Feel a breeze where there shouldn’t be one? August is your last call to stop drafts before cooler weather hits. A $5 tube of caulk can save you serious cash on heating bills down the line.

4. Add a Smart Thermostat

Speaking of heating bills, installing a smart thermostat is an easy DIY with big returns. It helps you manage energy use and can pay for itself in a year. Many are compatible with Alexa or Google Home, if you’re into that kind of thing.

5. Declutter and Donate

This one’s less about tools and more about tackling the post-summer mess. Sort through the garage, basement, or that closet you’ve been ignoring. You’ll make space for fall gear and maybe even uncover something useful you forgot you owned.

6. Freshen Up the Front Door

Curb appeal matters, even if you’re not selling. A fresh coat of paint on your front door or new hardware (like a modern handle or knocker) can give your entryway a whole new vibe. Go bold or classic, just make it intentional.

7. Clean Out the Gutters

August is dry, which makes it the perfect time to clear out gunk from your gutters. You’ll be glad you did once the leaves start falling. Bonus: you’ll prevent water damage, mold, and unwanted pests.

8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

It takes five minutes, and it could save your life. Replace batteries, test the alarms, and make sure you’ve got one in every key area. Safety first, always.

You don’t always need a full-blown renovation to make your home better. These projects are simple, affordable, and perfect for that August energy before school starts and the busyness of the fall season begins.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Five Resolutions for Homeowners in the New Year

As we approach a new year, it's the perfect time for homeowners to reflect on their living spaces and set resolutions that will not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to long-term comfort, savings, and sustainability. Here are five resolutions to consider for a more vibrant and efficient home in 2024.

1. Home Maintenance Schedule

One of the most practical resolutions for homeowners is to establish a comprehensive home maintenance schedule. This roadmap can be a game-changer when it comes to preserving the integrity of your home. Include routine tasks such as gutter cleaning, HVAC system checks, and roof inspections in your plan. By consistently adhering to this schedule, you can catch potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. 

2. Energy Efficiency Improvements

In the spirit of embracing a more sustainable lifestyle, resolve to make your home more energy-efficient in the coming year. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, sealing drafts in windows and doors, and adding insulation where needed. Additionally, installing a smart thermostat can optimize your heating and cooling systems, providing not only environmental benefits but also long-term cost savings on your energy bills.

3. Declutter and Organize

Amid the chaos of life, maintaining an organized and clutter-free home can be a challenge. This year, make it a resolution to declutter and organize your living spaces systematically. Take one room at a time, donating or discarding items you no longer need. Implement practical storage solutions to keep things organized. A clutter-free home not only looks more inviting, but it can also contribute to a more peaceful and stress-free living environment. 

4. Home Security Enhancement

Safety should always be a top priority for homeowners. This year, resolve to assess and enhance the security of your home. Consider upgrading locks, installing a comprehensive security system, adding motion sensor lighting, and reinforcing doors and windows. A secure home not only protects your loved ones and belongings but also provides peace of mind. Investing in security measures is an investment in the well-being of your household.

5. Water Conservation Efforts

Water is a precious resource and every drop counts. Pledge to be a responsible homeowner by implementing water conservation efforts in and around your home. Promptly fix any leaks, install water-efficient fixtures, and consider drought-resistant landscaping. Conserving water not only aligns with environmental consciousness but can also result in lower water bills. In the pursuit of sustainability, small changes can lead to significant impacts.

As you embark on these resolutions for the New Year, remember to break them down into manageable tasks and create a timeline for implementation throughout the year. By doing so, you can track your progress and ensure that these resolutions become lasting improvements for your home. Here's to a year of positive changes, a refreshed home, and the satisfaction of being a proactive homeowner. Cheers to a Happy and Home-Enhanced New Year!

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.