As the winter chill fades away and the first buds of spring emerge, it’s the perfect time to give your home some TLC. As design-build professionals, we’ve seen firsthand how a little love can go a long way in preserving your home’s beauty and functionality. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into housekeeping tips that cover both the inside and outside of your beloved abode. [hint: you may want to tack this list on your fridge and keep it within arm’s reach for easy reference.]
Outside the Home:
- Inspect Your Roof: Start by giving your roof a thorough once-over. Look for any missing or damaged shingles, signs of water damage, or areas where critters might have taken up residence over the winter. Addressing these issues early can prevent costly repairs down the line.
- Inspect for Rot: Check out the exterior wood surfaces such as siding, trim, and decks for signs of rot. Pay attention to areas frequently exposed to moisture such as around downspouts, near gutters, and the base of exterior walls. Check for signs of water pooling around the foundation, which can indicate poor drainage and potential moisture issues that can lead to rot.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: While we’re looking up, don’t forget about your gutters and downspouts. Clear out debris, such as leaves and twigs, to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to your foundation.
- Check Outdoor Plumbing: Take a stroll around your property and inspect outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems for any leaks or damage. Fixing minor issues now can save you from major headaches later.
- Clean and Inspect Exterior Dryer Vent: During the winter, dryer vents accumulate debris, obstructing airflow and increasing the risk of fire hazards. Additionally, inspect the vent for any damage or wear and tear that may have occurred during the harsh winter weather, allowing for timely repairs or replacements if necessary.
- Prep Your Lawn and Garden: Get your green thumbs ready! Spring is the perfect time to fertilize your lawn, trim bushes and trees, and plant vibrant flowers to add some curb appeal to your home.
Inside the Home:
- Clean and Inspect HVAC System: As the weather warms up, it’s time to give your HVAC system attention. Change air filters, clean vents, and schedule a professional tune-up to ensure everything is running smoothly. Cleaning air ducts in the spring helps maintain indoor air quality, improve system efficiency, and ensure comfort throughout the summer.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Safety first! Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re in working order. Replace batteries if needed and consider installing new detectors if yours are outdated.
- Service Your Water Heater: Extend the life of your water heater by draining and flushing out sediment buildup. This simple maintenance task can improve efficiency and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
- Clean Behind Your Dryer: Vacuuming behind your dryer helps it run more efficiently and is important for safety reasons. Lint, dust, and debris can accumulate over time in the venting system and around the exhaust vent. This buildup not only restricts airflow but also poses a significant fire hazard.
- Inspect for Rot: Check the interior of your home for any signs of water damage or moisture intrusion. Pay attention to areas such as basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms, and kitchens, where moisture levels may be higher. Look for stains on walls or ceilings, musty odors, and warped or buckled flooring. All of which can indicate rot or water damage.
- Deep Clean and Declutter: Clear out the clutter, dust neglected corners, and give your home a fresh start for the season ahead.
- Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances: Give your kitchen appliances some extra love by deep cleaning them inside and out. Clean the coils on your refrigerator, wipe down oven and microwave interiors, and descale your coffee maker for optimal performance.
- Inspect Windows and Doors: Check windows and doors for any drafts or leaks. Replace weather stripping and caulking as needed to improve energy efficiency and keep your home comfortable year-round.
Undoubtedly, a little maintenance now can save you from major headaches down the road when you should be enjoying the sunshine. So, grab your toolbox and prepare to spruce up your home for the season ahead. Happy spring cleaning, everyone!
Can your home use a little more than some Spring cleaning? Give us a shout to chat about how our team can help transform your spaces.
