Spring is underway! Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to use it to your advantage and ensure your home is in tip-top shape for the coming summer months. Scroll below for nine spring home maintenance tips to add to your to-do list!
Inspect the Roof
Harsh winters can lead to roof damage thanks to snow and ice buildup. Inspecting your roof for damage will help protect your home from leaks and other issues. Look for warped, cracked, or loose shingles or bricks and signs of rot while inspecting flashing, skylights, chimneys, and vents.
Clean the Gutters
Midwest winters generally come with wind. Take some time to inspect your gutters for damage and clear any debris that may have built up over the winter. Keeping gutters free of debris and repairing cracks and sags prevents costly water damage, ensuring water drains off your roof and away from your home’s foundation.
Inspect Windows & Doors
Extreme temperature changes can damage seals on windows and doors. Take time to check each of your home’s doors and windows to identify any cracked, hardened, or loosened seals. Properly working seals protect your home from water leaks and reduce the cost of cooling during the warmer months.
Service Your HVAC System
Speaking of cooling, spring is the perfect time to have a professional inspect your heating and cooling system. After all, the worst time to find out your A/C doesn’t work is in the middle of that first heat wave! Make repairs now to prevent overheating due to a faulty cooling system once temperatures spike.
Drain Your Water Heater
Over time, sediment builds up inside water heaters. The good news? It’s easily fixed by descaling (draining) the tank. Periodically descaling your water heater helps it work more efficiently, reducing your electric bill and prolonging its life.
Inspect Your Washer & Dryer
Spring is also a great time to ensure your washer and dryer run efficiently. Inspect the washing machine’s fill hose for cracks, which can cause costly water damage if a leak occurs. Additionally, check your outer dryer vent for buildup, which may be causing your dryer to run longer.
Repair Cracked Concrete
Once the snow and ice clear, inspect the concrete slabs around your driveway, front porch, patio, and sidewalk for cracks that need repair. Also, note any slabs that appear to drain toward the foundation rather than away, as this can cause water damage. Repair cracks by power-washing the concrete (weather permitting) and filling them with concrete crack filler or silicone.
Replace Smoke Detector Batteries
Your smoke detector may not be at the forefront of your mind until it starts beeping, but you don’t want to go without it. Take the time to replace the batteries each spring; rest assured they’ll work if you need them.
Clean the Garbage Disposal
Rather than venturing out in the cold, more home-cooked meals are prepared during the winter months. That means more leftover food is making its way through the garbage disposal. Clear any food buildup by feeding a tray of ice cubes down the disposal while running the cold water.
We Can Help!
This time of year is great for performing your annual spring home maintenance tips and for starting to think about your next home remodeling or construction project. We’d love to help you get the ball rolling! Reach out to our team today to get started!
Photo Credit: JamesDeMers via Pixabay