Spring is the perfect time to give your home some much-needed maintenance after the harsh winter weather and the above freezing temperatures are sticking around. Taking some time to perform simple inspections and tweaks can help you maintain your home in good working order, prolong your mechanical systems, and avoid costly repairs in the future. Here are some essential things homeowners should do every spring to ensure their house is in good condition:
Visually Roof Inspection
The winter weather can wreak havoc on your roof, so it’s essential to inspect it thoroughly in the spring. Look for any signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles, and make sure that there are no leaks or water damage on the inside of your house. IF you can take a look at the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for any signs of wear and tear. A good visual inspection from the ground using binoculars will give you some ideas if there are any trouble spots.
Review the Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts play a vital role in protecting your home’s foundation, so it’s important to ensure that they are in good working condition. Remove any debris, such as leaves and twigs from your gutters, and be sure that they are not clogged. Check your downspouts to ensure that they are directing water away from your home’s foundation and if you haven’t done so, purchase a plastic pipe attachment for your spout from a home materials store to direct the water further away from your home.
Check Your Windows and Doors
Inspect your windows and doors for any signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks or gaps that may allow air to escape, and replace any damaged weatherstripping. This will help you save on energy costs and keep your home comfortable throughout the year. On a windy day run the palm of your hand around the inside of your windows and doors parameter and see if you feel a draft. This may be a sign that the windows and/or doors may require a tune up.
Inspect Your Plumbing
Inspect your homes plumbing for any leaks or damage. Check around the water heater for any signs of rust or corrosion. Look for leaks under sinks and around toilets, and repair any issues promptly to avoid water damage.
Clean Your Dryer Vent
Over time your dryer vent can become clogged with lint, and other debris which can be a fire hazard. Clean your dryer vent thoroughly to ensure that it’s free from any debris. This will help your dryer work more efficiently, lower your operating costs and reduce the risk of a fire.
Inspect Your Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors play a vital role in protecting your home and family from fires. Inspect your smoke detectors, and replace any batteries that are low. Make sure that the detectors are working correctly, and install additional detectors if necessary. If you’re not sure where additional smoke detectors should go then give the fire department a call and ask! They are very helpful in assisting home owners with fire safety issues.
Check Your Sump Pump
If you have a basement prone to outside leaks then it’s essential to make sure that your sump pump is performing well. Test the pump, and make sure that it’s pumping water away from your home’s foundation.
Tidy Up Your Outdoor Spaces
Spring is the perfect time to clean your outdoor spaces and prepare them for the upcoming summer months. You might want to consider not doing a leaf pickup until the weather is consistently over 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows for the hybernating pollinators to fully awaken. Clean your grill, and make sure that it’s working correctly for the upcoming barbecue season.
We hope these tips help your home operate better and longer. Should you be in need of a new roof or windows, or simply want to add a deck to your home then give us a call at 724-728-0988!