Spring is finally here, and it is time to do some outdoor work. If you havenāt cleaned your window screens for a year or more, it is time to clean them. The first thing to remember is never power wash window screens, as the force of the water can damage the screens. Remove the screens from the window frame. Mix a solution of mild soap and water. A half-cup in a bucket of warm water will do.
With a soft bristle brush dipped in the soap solution, gently brush both sides of the screen. Also clean around the interior and exterior of the frame. Rinse off the unit with the hose. Hold the screen up to the sky and look for uneven cleaning. If you see this, wash the screen again. Allow the screen to dry completely before replacing in the window.
Window screens or bug screens are there mainly to keep bugs out of the house when the windows are open. If you have some windows that are never opened, as I do, you can remove and store those screens. This will give you a clearer view out the windows with removed screens and will cut down on the annual task of washing screens.
If you have damage on any of your screens, now is the time to repair them. If you have a small hole, say a half inch in diameter, patch kits for small holes are available in most hardware and big-box stores. If you are unhappy with the look of a patch, you may wish to get the screen mesh replaced on the entire unit. You also may want to replace the screen material if it becomes stretched or scratched.
If you have pets that scratch your door or window screens, there is a good solution. There is now a heavy duty screen material that will stand up to all but the largest and most aggressive pets. You can have your screens rescreened with this material at Ace Hardware.
Mulch Volcanoes
If you or your landscaper have put new mulch around the plantings in your yard and it looks like a volcano around the base of your trees, you have a common problem in Sun City called āmulch volcanoes.ā While you may like the looks of these structures, they are killing your trees.
Please go to mysundaynews.com and reread the Ask the Woodchucks article from November 4, 2010 on the damage these mulch volcanoes are causing and how to remedy it.
A rake and three minutes of your time will level the mulch out around your trees and make them much healthier. Iāll be out there checking.
If you have suggestions for future tips or have questions about maintenance around your home, submit them to: ask.the.woodchucks@gmail.com.
