Spring is here and with it comes the perfect opportunity to do some much-needed maintenance work around the house. The winter season can really take a toll on your home, leaving behind damaged roofs, clogged gutters, and unkempt yards.
As winter winds down and the temperatures start to rise, there are a few key tasks that every homeowner should prioritize to keep their home in top condition.
For the Interior
The first task on every homeowner’s spring maintenance list should be a deep cleaning. This means clearing out the dust, dirt, and debris that accumulated over the winter months. Start with a deep clean of your home’s interior. Vacuum carpets, dust and clean wood floors, clean base molding, windows and blinds, dust surfaces, and sanitize high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. Don’t forget to change out air filters and check smoke detectors while you’re at it.
For the Exterior
Winter can be harsh on outdoor features, so it’s important to assess any damage that may have occurred and repair it as necessary.
It is essential to take the necessary measures to maintain your home’s functionality and beauty. Here are some of the spring maintenance tasks that every homeowner should undertake:
- Be sure to take note of any trees or shrubs that may have sustained damage during winter storms and address any potential safety concerns.
- Clean and inspect your gutters. This is one of the most crucial maintenance tasks you can do. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, mold growth, and even pest infestations. Clear any debris from your gutters and make sure that the water flows freely through them.
- Check your roof for damage. Winter can cause damage to your roof, such as leaks, broken shingles, and cracked tiles. Inspect your roof thoroughly for any signs of damage and hire a professional roofer to make any necessary repairs.
- Pressure wash your home’s exterior. After the winter season, your home’s exterior may have a layer of grime, dirt, and dust. A pressure wash will help to get rid of all this and restore the home’s appearance. You can hire a professional service or rent a pressure washer from a local home improvement store.
- Trim overgrown trees and bushes. Overgrown trees and bushes can cause damage to your home’s foundation and roof, as well as attract pests. Therefore, trim them to keep your yard looking tidy and well-maintained.
- Service your HVAC system. Spring is the perfect time to service your HVAC system, ensuring that it is functioning efficiently and safely. Hire an HVAC professional to perform a tune-up and change the air filters.
- Inspect and clean your windows. Inspect your windows for cracks or any other damages. If there are any damages are present, make the necessary repairs. Clean your windows and let the sun shine in.
- Look for winged insects flying out of a hole in the woodwork. This may be an indication of termites. Call a professional pest control company to assess and treat if necessary.
- Look closely at your home’s trim. Does it need to be replaced in some areas or touched up with paint? Pay close attention to where the wood trim meets the ground or driveway. This is especially quick to rot.
- Driveways and walkways. Take some time to clean up anything that may be a hazard to walking or driving.
- Doors and windows. Check your screens for rips and holes. You can replace the screen instead of replacing the entire window or screen door. There are also screen patches on the market that are incredibly easy to use.
- Reseal decks and fences. Regular sealing keeps decks and fences in better condition and gives them a longer life.
- Check your sprinkler system. Regular upkeep can save water. Walk your property while you are running your system to look for broken or damaged heads. Adjust heads that are spraying the street, sidewalk, or house.
- Prevent mosquitoes. Mosquitoes carry both West Nile and Zika virus. Prevent mosquitoes by making sure there is no standing water on your property. Dump garden pots that have filled with water. Be sure to do this regularly.
Always hire a professional for jobs that are out of your scope of expertise.
Spring maintenance can seem daunting, but by following these simple steps, you can keep your home functioning and looking its best. Make a checklist, prioritize your tasks, and enjoy a well-maintained home.