Spring is in the air, and it's not just the flowers that are ready for a refresh.
After a long winter, your home could use a little TLC. Spring is the perfect time to inspect, clean, and repair areas of your home that may have taken a hit during the colder months. I always remind homeowners that seasonal maintenance isn't just about keeping things pretty, it's about protecting your investment and making sure your home is weather protected and efficient year-round.
Unfortunately, I should have been more mindful of keeping my lawn pretty. As I begin to look over my house and property after winter, it's my lawn that's in the worst shape. Larger areas of brown and dead looking grass, while I have neighbors with practically plush green already. At first I thought grub worms victimized the lawn in the fall. But, after further evaluation I think it's winter-kill gone mad. More attention will need to be given to my lawn this spring and beyond I guess.
Here’s a practical spring home maintenance checklist to get you started at your house this spring:
1. Inspect and Tidy up the Exterior
Inspect your siding, foundation, and exterior paint for damage or signs of moisture. Painting upkeep is essential to protect degradable material such as wood or cement board siding. Annual touch up is not unusual. Expect to apply a fresh coat of paint to your entire house every 10-12 years for optimal protection. Areas of caulking around windows, doors, and other trim may need to be touched up or redone depending on level of deterioration. This is vital to prevent moisture intrusion. Trim back any vegetation that’s too close to your house...it can promote mold and attract pests.
2. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Winter can be rough on roofs. Look for missing or displaced shingles. If comfortable doing do, walk your roof to get an up close look. This can also help identify deficient flashing around vents or plumbing stack pipes. The rubber-boot flashing around plumbing vent pipes is known to weather and crack. Clean out your gutters to prevent water backup and foundation issues as spring rains roll in. Properly functioning gutters prevent water intrusion that can damage components and reduce your home’s thermal performance.
3. Check Attic and Basement for Signs of Moisture
Spring thaws and rains can lead to damp basements or attics. Look for signs of mold, mildew, or pests. Many homes may succumb to heat loss to the attic in the winter months. This can lead to condensation within the attic. Adjustments to insulation and/or ventilation in the attic may need to be considered for prevention of excessive heat loss and potential moisture issues. Examine basement walls for moisture-like stains or efflorescent discoloring. Consider installing a dehumidifier in the basement if humidity levels are consistently high.
4. Service Your HVAC System
Many have their HVAC looked over in the fall ahead of heating season, which is great. Having a general Clean & Tune completed on your system at least every other year is a good idea. It's also a good idea to have your A/C system evaluated before you switch from heat to A/C. Cleaning of the outdoor A/C condenser unit is essential each year. Often you can blow off debris and spray it down yourself as a good maintenance practice. However, it's always good to have a HVAC technician provide a tune up of the system....whether you choose to do that annually, or at least every other year. Be sure also to replace air filters and make sure vents are clean and unblocked. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and lasts longer.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Use the time change as a reminder to check your safety equipment. Replace batteries and test all alarms. If your detectors are 10 years old, they should be replaced. If you are on propane, you should have a propane gas leak alarm close by your HVAC system and within two feet of the floor. While you’re at it, check your fire extinguisher’s pressure gauge and expiration date. We should all have at least one fire extinguisher at our house. I recommend keeping one within your kitchen area. One in the garage is also a good idea.
(I had to use the fire extinguisher on our toaster on one occasion. Just don't try to warm up taco shells with your toaster!) 🔥
6. Prepare Your Windows for Summer; Check and Seal for Air Leaks
Clean both sides of your windows to maximize natural light. If you don’t already have them, consider installing energy-efficient window treatments or films to reduce summer heat gain.
Cold drafts may have been more noticeable in winter, but spring is a great time to address them. Inspect weather stripping around doors and windows. Not only will this keep your cool air in during summer, but it’ll also reduce your energy bills. Exterior wall outlets and light switches may also be an opportunity to seal air leaks.
Wrapping Up: Spring maintenance isn’t just about upkeep....it’s a chance to reset, improve comfort, and save on utilities before summer heat sets in. A well-maintained home is a happier, healthier, and more efficient home.
Got a maintenance ritual you swear by? Share it in the comments or drop me a line.
Happy Spring!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment