After a long winter, the prospect of getting outside and enjoying your yard can be exciting. However, the brighter days and warmer weather also mean that it’s time for some essential home maintenance tasks.
During the spring, much of the interior and exterior home maintenance pertains to repairing any damage incurred through the winter and preparing the yard for the summer. Here are nine essential tasks to add to your ultimate spring home maintenance to-do list.
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Inspect the Roof and Gutters
The first thing you should do when the spring arrives is to inspect your roof and gutters. If you’re in a place that’s prone to extreme winter weather— either snowstorms or lots of rain— your shingles will bear the brunt of the damage. It’s not uncommon to lose a few shingles over the winter months, but it is important to replace them as soon as possible.
According to the experts at Kanga Roof roofing services Roseville, MI, there are also many subtle signs of roofing damage that you may not know to look for. If your shingles are curling, it could indicate issues with ventilation. It’s also essential to look at potential damage to the soffit and fascia. As getting on the roof can be a safety risk, it’s worth having a professional do a closer inspection if you suspect there’s an issue.
The gutters tend to capture a lot of debris from the fall and winter months, which could block the flow of water away from your home. This can lead to rot and water damage. Take the time to clear out the gutters to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Schedule an Air Conditioning Tune-Up
While the idea of turning on the air conditioning and basking in the shade might be premature, it’s still important to get your cooling system serviced. Incorporating this task into your spring maintenance schedule will help you avoid the rush as summer approaches. Be proactive to avoid any delays or downtime when the weather gets warmer.
During an air conditioning tune-up, a service technician will inspect your unit and make some minor adjustments. This process may include eliminating dust and grime from the unit, tightening any loose connections, replacing the filter, lubricating moving parts, and generally ensuring everything is working smoothly. In addition to keeping your system functional, an annual tune-up can also minimize your utility costs by improving efficiency.
Clean the Vents and Filters
There’s nothing like throwing open the windows and letting the fresh air in during the early days of spring. However, the air isn’t really fresh if your filters and vents are filled with dust from the winter.
Take some time to vacuum and clean your vents and filters. Don’t forget to vacuum out your dryer’s lint trap and external vent, as these tend to become overwhelmed with debris during the winter. Taking the time for this simple task will help prevent dryer fires and minimize the risk of attracting pests looking for a place to nest.
Prepare the Yard and Garden
Whether you’re an avid gardener or just take pride in your yard, spring is when the hard work begins. This is a time of planning and preparation. Start by assessing what work needs to be done and creating an action plan. Note where dirt and mulch may need to be replaced and start to outline any spring and summer planting.
Take this time to inspect and prepare your tools and equipment. Check your lawnmower and other power equipment to ensure everything is working smoothly. Oil the connections, sharpen the blades, and fuel up as needed.
Check the Foundation and Siding
Do a quick inspection of the house’s exterior, looking for any signs of damage to the siding. If you notice missing pieces or cracked pieces of siding, make repairs and replacements as soon as possible. Remember that it’s more important to seal the siding to prevent pests and further damage than to worry about aesthetics right now.
It’s also important to check the foundation for signs of cracks or leaks. Take the time to inspect your basement through the same lens as well. Sealing cracks in the foundation should be a top priority.
Check the Walkways and Driveway
The winter months can be hard on your walkways and driveway, regardless of the materials used. Freezing, thawing, and refreezing can cause cracks in both walkways and the driveway. Permafrost can also have an impact, as can the use of a plow.
Look for cracks and evaluate what can be sealed or repaired and what elements need replacing. Again, the prevention of further damage should be a priority over aesthetics; you can always paint or make cosmetic upgrades later.
Inspect the Windows and Screens
When you throw open the windows to let in the fresh air, don’t forget to inspect them for potential drafts and damages. Check the screens and make repairs as needed— the bugs will also be excited by the warmer air. Give the windows a good cleaning to let that sunlight shine in, and repair any damaged or missing caulking.
If you noticed some windows getting more condensation than usual during the winter, there’s a good chance the seals are damaged. Repairing these and applying a new layer of caulking will keep your home airtight and ensure you aren’t paying for your air conditioning to escape.
Note that if all of your windows showed signs of excess humidity, there’s likely a problem with your HVAC system.
Roy from Cold Hot Air writes: “It’s important to do regular maintenance on your HVAC system. You’ll not only enjoy from better performance, but you may also prevent a major disaster when your air conditioning system is needed the most during summer or winter.”
Prepare for Pests
While some of the tasks mentioned here contribute to preventing pests, there are a few other chores worth mentioning. If you have a wood stove, take the time to move your woodpile away from the house. While the close proximity is beneficial in the winter months, it can be an open invitation to termites during the summer. You may also wish to have a pest control service come in and spray around your foundation.
Turn on the Outside Faucets and Sprinklers
Finally, check to ensure that the outside faucets made it through the winter. Check your hoses and sprinklers for any leaks or damage so that you’re ready to jump into lawn care season.
With these essential home maintenance tasks, you can shake off the last of the winter and prepare your house and yard for the beautiful months ahead.