Gutters, downspouts Clean clogged gutters from a sturdy ladder with a trowel. Run water from a hose along the gutter to make sure the downspouts are flushed clear. Make sure downspouts carry water at least 3 feet away from the house. You may want to install gutter guards, which will keep your gutters clean and maintenance-free for years. Ridge vents need to be kept unobstructed in order for the house to breathe correctly.
Unventilated air becomes stagnant and creates an unhealthy environment.
Roofs Examine areas where the roof is penetrated by a chimney, vent, dormer or skylight. Each joint should be protected by a metal flashing, usually aluminum or copper to avoid corrosion, and the edges of the flashing should be sealed with roof cement to prevent leaks. Replace any missing, cracked, curled, broken or rotted shingles. Chimneys Avoid flue fires with an annual cleaning if you burn artificial logs or paper, semiannually if you burn seasoned hardwood. Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, accumulates on the interior of the chimney and may catch fire.