Spring cleaning season is officially here. On your mental to-do list are probably things like cleaning baseboards and organizing closets, but have you thought about your home maintenance? Here’s how to give your home some TLC after the winter months and prepare it for the heat of summer.
1. Check the roof.
Check for shingles that may have been damaged from winter weather. This important step can prevent major issues and help your roof last longer. In addition, spring weather can bring heavy rains, which can make any existing damage worse. It’s best to fix issues now instead of waiting and ending up with more damage and more expensive repairs.
2. Clean the gutters.
Remove leaves or other debris. Clogged gutters can cause water overflow, which can lead to leaks.
3. Check the siding.
Look for mold, chips, and cracks. This can help prevent pest invasions as well as water damage.
4. Wash the windows, driveway, and deck.
To keep your house looking its best, clean the inside and outside of your windows. Then, to enhance curb appeal, you’ll want to give your driveway and deck a power washing if needed to get rid of dirt, mold, and mildew buildup.
5. Reverse ceiling fans.
Don’t forget about the ceiling fans! Set them to rotate counterclockwise, which pushes cool air down. This can make more of a difference than you think and save money on your cooling bill.
6. Clean dryer vents.
This is another step that’s easy to forget. You’ll want to get rid of any lint buildup to prevent fires and reduce your energy costs.
7. Check your plumbing.
Look around toilets, under the sinks, and in the basement for any early signs of leaks. Even a small leak can waste gallons of water per year and increase your water costs.
8. Refresh the landscaping.
Not only will this boost curb appeal, but a well-landscaped home can also increase property value by up to 15%!
9. Inspect your sprinklers.
Freezing temperatures can damage sprinklers—check for wear and tear and make any necessary repairs.
10. Get your lawn mower ready.
Don’t wait until the grass is tall–sharpen mower blades and check the oil now so that you’re ready to maintain your lawn after spring showers.
Final thoughts on spring home maintenance
Follow these steps to keep your house in tip-top shape this spring. Here’s to warmer weather!
