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Seasonal checklist
Autumn has arrived, so the time is now to tackle certain home-maintenance chores before the first big snowfall. What follows are a few fall chores suggested by the contractors and service companies represented by Angie’s List (angieslist.com):
Clean outdoor furniture – and refinish it if necessary – to prevent winter rust and damage.
Schedule indoor painting if necessary. Business for painters is generally slower in September and October, and the weather tends to be ideal for leaving windows open for ventilation.
Check insulation in your attic and basement for any dirty spots, which often indicate air leaks. If you find holes, seal them with caulk.
Get your chimney cleaned and make necessary repairs. Fireplaces should have an annual cleaning to prevent chimney fires.
energy
Recycled plasticware
Here’s an easy way to be an Earth-smart host or hostess: Use recycled and recyclable forks, knives and spoons. Diamond’s Renew recycled plastic cutlery uses 10 percent less plastic than other disposable utensils, and comes in a recycled-paperboard box. Renew is available at Target and Wal-Mart for around $1.60 for 24 pieces.
money
Home-improvement prize
Think those TV fix-it people have more skills around the house than the average do-it-yourselfer? Not necessarily, according to True Value and Steve Watson from HGTV’s “Don’t Sweat It.” They recently teamed up to find the nation’s top home-improvement guru during the “Do-It-Yourself All Star” contest. Entries are being accepted at StartRightStart , a site stocked with tips and project ideas. The grand- prize winner will receive a $1,000 True Value shopping spree and a consultation with Watson.
