Its springtime! The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and summer fun is just around the corner. Are you ready? Whether calling in a professional or planning to do-it-yourself, use this home maintenance checklist to get your lake home ready for a summer full of enjoyment and relaxation.

Air Conditioner

• Hire a professional for a recharge and tune-up.
• Check general condition of compressor, removing any debris around it.
• Check lines to and from the compressor.
• Check motor lubrication.
• Clean up the blower compartment and fan blades.
• Check the airflow, registers, grills and make sure airflow is unobstructed. 

Roof

• Snow, ice and wind can damage your roof. Replace any missing or torn shingles. Also check for nails that may have popped out of the shingles.
• If the roof has wind turbines, check the ball bearings. 
• Clear gable vents of bird nests and other obstructions.

Chimney

• Check lining, clean out soot and look for creosote buildup.
• Check the condition of the masonry.

Siding

• Check siding for loose or missing pieces, lifting or warping, and signs of mildew or moisture damage.
• Clean vinyl or aluminum siding using a stiff-bristled broom, water and a mild soap.
• Check condition of flashing and caulking.

Windows

• Check window locks, glass and screens.
• Clean glass and screens often.
• Check weather stripping for damage and tightness of fit.
• Clean debris and leaves from below-grade window wells and storm drains. 
• Examine trim for signs of damage or decay.
• Check conditions of glazing compounds and caulking.

Driveways, Walkways, Concrete Steps

• Inspect for cracks, breaks, erosion and cold-weather damage.

Gutters & Downspouts

• Look at gutters, downspouts and splashbacks: are they at the correct angle?
• Is the water going away from the foundation?
• Clean out leaves, debris and blockages.
• Inspect color for fading and look for signs of rust, leaks and loosening of hangers and clips.

Download the Summer Home Preparation Checklist

Perham Health
Perham, MN

With a focus on comfort and the family's role in patient care, this 110,000 square foot hospital promotes a unique healing environment. Designed by Baker Hogan Houx and Construction Managed by Nor-Son, beautiful artistic features and nature-inspired design were incorporated to ease anxiety for families and patients. The hospital brings to life the power of nature through its warmly toned color palette of browns and greens, abundance of natural lighting and the soothing sound of water in the atrium. These natural elements and materials are present throughout the facility, and create rooms with a touch of home that help patients heal, relieve stress and promote a peaceful balance during their stay.

Maybe you're training to run a marathon. Maybe you're perfecting your downward-facing dog pose. Or maybe you're planning to reel in the big whopper this summer at the cabin. Whatever your resolution is this year, make it a strong one! Nor-Son creates personal workout spaces that invite you in, and keep you motivated all year long. Happy New Year!

 

This February, we'll be setting up shop with our new and improved booth in Minneapolis and Fargo. Showcasing our latest collection of custom-designed and hand-crafted homes, stop by and lets talk about how our architects and craftsmen can make your dream home come true! Take the first steps and visit us at the Lake Home and Cabin Show in Minneapolis and the Red River Valley Home and Garden Show in Fargo! See you there!

St. Mary's Care Center
Client: Benedictine Health System
Winsted, MN

Take an afternoon drive and visit the beautifully remodeled St. Mary's Care Center in Winsted, MN. Located next to the Garden House, the St. Mary's Care Center was designed with both the community of Winsted, and the community of St. Mary's in mind. A comforting blend of form and function, this is indeed a house where you'll find someone to lend a hand - and hold a hand.

 

French Country Retreat
Client: Confidential
Location: Northern Minnesota

In a beautiful pairing of styles, see how Nor-Son united the elegance and scale of the French Country with the charm and quaintness of the Cottage. While the designs may come from different origins, their aesthetic qualities focus on rustic warmth and comfort, allowing them to be a compatible match. The scale of the French Country may be stunning, but it's the Cottage style within that brings the sense of intimacy, making it a comfortable and charming retreat.

Institutional facilities and traditional care models are no longer what people want. The future is about how people live, not just about how they age. Read below to learn more.

A bridge is more than just wood, planks and handrails. It's a safe passage from one destination to the next. It's a connection between two people. It's a bond we share with our community. Learn how the bridge Nor-Son is building for Bridges of Hope, a non-profit organization in the Brainerd Lakes Area, is helping to reach out and support local families in need.

Pickerel Lake Retreat
Client: Confidential
Pickerel Lake

Inspired by natural elements of stone and timber, escape to this rustic retreat overlooking the beautiful Pickerel Lake. Wander through hallways and staircase of smooth, gnarly wood. Relax in front of a cozy, see-through fireplace of unique hearth stones. Find your way to the kitchen to admire hand-distressed cabinets with stainless steel mesh. The custom details and designs are endless, and make this another award-winning masterpiece by Nor-Son architects and builders.