La Casa management does ongoing inspections of all homes in the Community. Please let me explain to you some of the things that we look for and why it is so important that you be aware of the corrected needs. These items have multiple reasons to be corrected.
Physical preventive maintenance examples are as follows:
- Clean gutters, remove weeds from roof and wash roof:
- As gutters fill up with debris, it can cause leaks in the walls and the roof.
- Debris filled gutters cannot drain, and added weight from rain can cause serious damage to the gutters.
- Plants that are growing on the roof have a root system that begins in small cracks. As the roots grow, the cracks grow and cause serious leaks.
- Algae and fungus can do physical damage to roof coverings if left on for long periods. Also, algae and fungus can create health hazards.
- If a fire occurs nearby, debris in the gutters can act as kindle. If a fire starts in your gutter it will be a disaster.
- Debris in gutters, plants growing on the roof, fungus and algae offer places for insects to nest. Eventually they can make their way into your home.
- The items above will affect the exterior appearance of your home, and over time will make it unsightly. This is not the image we wish to portray in La Casa.
- Washing and Painting of the Home
- Obviously, appearance is the number one concern.
- Algae, fungus, sun oxidation and general age can damage the skin covering of your home. Painting and washing the exterior can save you time and money. Preventive maintenance is always best.
- Remove any weeds and algae from brickwork to prevent damage and insects.
- Health concerns are very important. Fungus, algae and molds are major causes of lung and breathing problems.
- Yard Maintenance; Weeds, Shrubs, and Trees
- Appearance is always our concern.
- Weeds and overgrown shrubs can be a fire hazard, due to falling embers from nearby fires.
- Overgrown plants and shrubs can encourage the presence of rats, snakes, ants, spiders and other unwanted pests.
- Rodents making homes and building nests under your home is a major concern. They can cause extensive damage to your A/C ducts and vapor barriers. Check the screens on any brickwork around the perimeter of your home and keep it secured and free of weeds or fungus. Keeping ventilation open will reduce moisture under your home to prevent damage. Good screens keep out animals that can be trapped under your house and die, creating bad odors and other problems.
- Fruit trees should be pruned regularly and trimmed back. This improves the health of the tree and the quality of the citrus. Remember to pick up all fallen fruit, to prevent having a food source for rodents and insects.
Submitted by Randy Browning