Upkeep

Maintenance tasks to pay attention to this season

- MATTHEW TEAGUE

DON’T GET DERAILED

Wobbly deck railings aren’t just unnerving; they’re also unsafe. Toe-screwing rails to the posts by driving fasteners in at an angle offers a clean, hardware-free look. To do it:

> Use 3-inch deck screws. The fasteners need to be long enough to grip the post, since you’re driving them diagonally.

> Seta drill bit on the rail’s bottom face about 1/2 inches away from the post, then drill a pilot hole up into the post at about a 45-degree angle.

> Drive the screw into the pilot hole. As it sinks into the rail, the screw should pull the two pieces together.

> If the post itself isn’t rock-solid, use a metal bracket or wood blocking to reinforce the post-to-framing connection.

Power up outdoor projects

Give exterior GFCI outlets a test run to ensure plug-in yard tools have the juice they need. With exposure to the elements, these outlets wear out in as little as five years. To make sure the GFCIs are ready to run, test both receptacles by plugging in a fan and pressing the TEST button. If this fails to trip the circuit and shut off power, the outlet needs replacing. If the fan stops turning, press RESET to restore power.) If a new GFCI continues to trip, the problem may be due to a faulty appliance or another damaged outlet or wiring on the circuit. If you can’t identify the culprit, call in an electrician.

DITCH THE DRIP