INTOWN HANDYMAN

Spring/Summer is here. Homeowners need to:

* Clean gutters and check down spouts for free flow. If possible, cover gutters with "gutter-guards" available at your home improvement store. Or specially made ($$$).

* Direct all down spout flow well away from house. Failure to do this is a major cause of foundation damage and wet basements.

* Wet or humid basement/crawl space? Consider installing vapor-barrier over all exposed dirt; sump-pump at low area; dehumidifier (with hose drain); sealing most foundation vents (Recent studies show moisture levels reduced if venting is reduced).

* Change your furnace air-filter. Especially if you have a "heat-pump" type system. These require long periods of high airflow. Consider a programmable thermostat if your home is too hot on arrival home from work.

* Consider installing outdoor mosquito-curtains for a relatively inexpensive screened porch that is only visible when you need it. We can help with design and installation!

* Consider adding attic roof vent fans or a whole house type fan.

* Consider adding insulation to your attic. Generally cost-effective over a few years.

* Consider adding a extra or larger HVAC vent outlet in that too-hot room. Or consider a ceiling fan (prices are very reasonable now).

***  If Intown Handyman can give you any advice or help you with these or other handyman services, please call our manager, and 20-year intown Atlanta resident, J. R. Peterson at (404) 2-intown (404-246-8696).

- Thank you.