Who knows what surprises the weather may have in store, a late freeze or a wild rainstorm, but spring brings the promise that Mother Nature’s worst is behind us. The warm days of spring are perfect for doing some home maintenance work that will keep your warm dry and cool as the weather heats up.
Up on the Rooftop
Winter storms can wreak havoc on your roof and shingles. Now is the time to check for storm damage and repair and replace shingles. Even a small leak can lead to major water damage when those inevitable spring showers come pouring down. While you’re up there, also take a look at your home’s gutters. Clogged gutters can be just as damaging as a leaky roof. Remove any debris that’s collected over the winter.
Vent a Little
Sunny days also mean your AC will soon be put to work. Clean and replace the HVAC filters to keep your system running efficiently. You’ll use less energy and save money in the long run. While you’re at it, take time to clean the dryer vent too. Lint traps catch a lot, but not all of the lint your laundry produces. A plugged dryer vent not only makes the dryer work harder, but it’s also a fire hazard. If you have a basement or crawl space, clear rocks and other debris away from foundation vents.
Screen Time
There’s nothing like a cool spring breeze blowing through the house, unless it also brings flies and mosquitos and other flying critters. Remove your screens and wash them gently with plain soapy water. Check for and repair small holes, too. It doesn’t take a very big opening for those unwanted pests to find their way in.
Feeling the Pressure
When it comes to outdoor cleaning, a pressure washer in a homeowner’s best friend. Spring clean the deck, fence, driveway and even the house to keep the outside of your home as fresh and neat as the inside. This is also the perfect time to inspect outdoor surfaces for damage.
The Little Things
Spring home maintenance can include an almost endless number of small chores. Creating a checklist may make it easier to get them all completed. A basic list might include:
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Vacuum refrigerator coils
- Check the hose on the washing machine for damage or cracks
- Check seals around doors and windows
- Trim back tree branches that are closer than five to seven feet from your house
Each season brings a new set of home maintenance chores. It may be tempting to enjoy a beautiful spring day at the beach or park instead of working at home, but avoiding those all-important tasks may cost time and money in the long run.
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