Spring has arrived! With it come longer days, warmer weather, and the chance to refresh your home. After a tough winter, a little home maintenance can help prevent costly repairs, boost your property value, and get everything ready for the sunny months ahead.
This guide is packed with practical tips and tasks to help homeowners like you prepare your home for the warmer months ahead.
Why Spring Maintenance Matters
Spring home maintenance isn’t just about making your home look good; it’s about protecting your investment. Regular upkeep helps prevent expensive repairs from damage or wear and keeps your home safe, efficient, and comfortable. And let’s face it, a clean and well-maintained home just feels better to live in.
Now, let’s break down each step of your spring maintenance checklist.
Exterior Checks
The exterior of your home takes the brunt of the elements all year long. Start your maintenance outdoors with these important tasks.
Inspect the Roof
Begin by checking your roof for storm damage. Look for missing or broken shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of algae and moss. Use binoculars for a closer look, or hire a professional if you’re not comfortable climbing up.
Clean the Gutters
Clear out leaves, debris, and dirt from gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs that could lead to water damage. Make sure downspouts are directed away from your home’s foundation to keep water from pooling.
Examine the Driveway and Pathways
Winter’s freeze-and-thaw cycles can create cracks in your driveway or walkways. Check for damage and seal small cracks with silicone caulk or concrete filler. For bigger problems, hire a professional to prevent further damage.
Check the Foundation
Walk around your home and check for cracks or water damage on the foundation. Cracks should be sealed with epoxy or caulking. If you notice bigger problems, call a professional to avoid leaks or structural issues.
Reseal Exterior Woodwork
Decks, fences, and other outdoor wood structures need resealing to protect them from moisture and sun damage. Start by power-washing to clean the surfaces, then apply a weather-resistant wood seal or stain to help them last longer.
Pest Prevention
Spring is also prime time for pests like termites and mosquitoes. Being proactive can save you big headaches later.
Termite Inspections
Termites are most active from March to June. Watch for signs like winged insects, hollow wood, or small pellets near wooden structures. If you think you have termites, call a pest control professional right away.
Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes love standing water. Look around your property for buckets, birdbaths, or clogged drains where water could collect. Fix leaks, tip containers, and keep gutters clear to prevent these disease-carrying pests.
Interior Checks
Spring maintenance isn’t just for the outside of your home—don’t forget to tackle important indoor tasks to keep everything running smoothly.
Check Electrical System
Check your home for any frayed cords, damaged outlets, or overloaded power strips, and replace anything damaged right away. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries if needed.
Inspect Fire Extinguishers
Make sure your fire extinguishers are working properly. Check the pressure gauge to see if it’s in the “green” zone, and inspect the hose, nozzle, and other parts for any damage. Move extinguishers to easily accessible spots if needed.
Look for Plumbing Issues
Look for leaks or corrosion around water heaters, toilets, faucets, and pipes under sinks. Fix small leaks right away to prevent bigger problems later. Don’t forget to check outdoor spigots for cracks or leaks when you turn the water back on.
Sprinkler System Test
Turn on your sprinkler system and inspect for leaks or damaged heads. Adjust sprinkler heads to water grassy areas, not sidewalks or porches, and fix any misaligned or broken components.
Clean and Inspect Fireplaces
Remove leftover ash and soot if you have a working wood-burning fireplace. Chimneys should also be professionally cleaned to prevent creosote buildup and reduce fire risks.
HVAC Maintenance
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system needs some attention this spring to keep it running smoothly during the warmer months.
Air Conditioning Maintenance
Schedule a professional AC service. A technician will check for leaks, clean the system, and replace the air filters. This helps lower energy costs and improves your home’s air quality.
Furnace or Boiler Check
Clean and inspect your furnace or boiler. Replace worn filters and check for corrosion or damage. Regular maintenance can extend its lifespan and keep it running efficiently.
Windows and Doors
Your windows and doors do more than just provide views and access; they play a key role in your home’s insulation and curb appeal.
Clean Your Windows
Dirty windows can block natural light and make your home look dull. Wash both the interior and exterior of your windows with a streak-free cleaner. While you’re at it, vacuum window sills and tracks.
Repair Screens and Weather Stripping
Inspect window and door screens for holes or tears, and patch them up using screen repair kits. Also, check seals and weather stripping for damage, replacing any worn materials to maintain energy efficiency.
A Home That’s Prepped for Spring
Spring maintenance isn’t just about cleaning; it’s about taking care of your biggest investment. By following these steps, you can keep your home safe, efficient, and looking great all year. Taking care of these tasks now will save you both time and money down the road.
Here’s to a spring with fresh air, blooming flowers, and a home that’s ready for the season!
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