Spring Home Maintenance

Spring Home Maintenance Blog and Checklist

After a long, cold, and for many, snowy, winter, the days are finally starting to warm up.  Spring is right around the corner and will soon thaw that winter chill! To best enjoy the spring weather, there are some spring home maintenance tips you should check off your to-do list. Spring home maintenance is as vital for a home’s exterior as spring cleaning is for the inside. To help you manage your spring home maintenance projects, GROWTH (a partner of the National Community Reinvestment Coalition) created a 10-point checklist that will have your house in great shape in no time!  

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist   

1. Check Your Roof:Winters can be tough on your roof and so can the heat of the summer sun. Make sure you check for any missing shingles, leaky flashing, debris and branches, and other damage. If you are uncomfortable doing this job, you may want to hire a professional to do the work. Cost: Elbow grease

2. Clean out gutters: Melting snow and April rains can clog gutters.   Make sure to clean out any fallen leaves and other debris to reduce any risks of clogging later in the season.  Cost: Elbow grease

3. Examine Windows: Well-kept windows and doors are vital for the home’s security, efficiency, and curb appeal. Over time, sealant and weatherstripping cracks, tracks become clogged, and bolts and screws can work their way loose. It is important to make sure windows are sealed tightly to prevent moisture and elements from entering the home, causing damage and reducing efficiency.  And screws and bolts should be tight so that casing is secure. Cleaning tracks anual will keep windows functioning properly without noise or jams. Cost: Elbow Grease

4. Examine your chimney (if you have one): To make St. Nick’s next visit a jolly one, it’s important to examine the exterior of your chimney for any signs of damage like missing caps, loose bricks, or failing mortar. This should be inspected by a certified chimney sweep.   Cost: $-$$

5. Check the attic: Check for proper ventilation or signs of birds’ nests and other pests. Also check for leaks, damaged soffit panels, wet spots on insulation, and obstructions that may block vents. Keeping good airflow will save you money when it comes to cooling costs. When inspecting insulation, make sure you are wearing gloves and long sleeves to protect you.  Cost: Elbow grease 

6. Check the concrete The frequent freeze/thaw cycles of cold winters along with salt can take a toll on your concrete walkways, driveways, and sidewalks. Spring is a great time to look for signs of cracks, spalling, and loose or heaving pads.  Cost: Elbow grease

7. Check outside faucets: Make sure your outside hose faucets are free of freeze damage. To properly inspect, turn the faucet on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If your finger stops the flow of water, there’s a good chance you have a damaged pipe. Check the garden hose for dry rot while you’re already outside.  Cost: Elbow grease 

8. Repair window screens: Hello spring…and hello flying critters.  If you have any holes in your window or door screens, dab clear household cement over the hole with a toothpick. If you have a plastic screen, test the cement on a scrap to make sure the material does not melt.  You can also use a screen patch.  Voila!  Cost $ 

9. Service AC Unit: Have a qualified HVAC contractor service and clean your AC unit. Clean coils work better.  An annual service call will keep your air conditioning system working at high-performance levels throughout the year. You should also change your interior filters on a  regular basis.  Check Groupon for any cost savings on service or maintenance or consider an annual contract to save some coin.  Cost: $-$$ 

10. Store winter items: Finally!  Time to put away those shovels, salt, heavy coats, and cold gear.  Wipe down equipment and store in a clean dry location until next winter.   If you find yourself short on storage space, try storing heavy coats, clothing, and equipment in a cost-efficient self-storage unit near your house. Cost: 0-$ 

Conclusion

These 10 spring maintenance tips will help your home look ready for spring and reduce long-term repair costs! Make sure to reach out to professionals for any spring maintenance work you feel you cannot complete. Be sure to also shop around and compare prices for the best deal. For more information on spring cleaning tips to make your home sparkle this season, check out our Spring Cleaning blog post here.