In a recent blog post, we talked about organizing your schedule for some spring-cleaning. But there’s more you can do to get your home ready for the warm months besides a thorough cleaning. Whether your house has been covered with ice and snow, or you’ve simply had less time to maintain it during the darker months, spring is a good time to do some basic maintenance that shouldn’t be ignored.
Below is a checklist of home maintenance tasks:
- Gutters: Remember our post on cleaning and repairing gutters? Spring is the perfect time to make sure your gutters are leak-free and attached securely to your home. In many parts of the country, spring can be rainy, so you’ll want to be sure your gutters are clear of debris and draining properly. Make sure downspouts drain away from your foundation; use extensions if necessary.
- Flood Prevention: If you live in a rainy region or in an area with major snow melts, be sure to protect your home against flooding. One tip is to fill low areas in the yard, or areas near the foundation, with compacted soil.
- Roof Repair: Have you inspected your roof lately? A quick visual check will reveal if any roof shingles were damaged or lost during the winter. If you notice any problems, contact a professional roofer and get an estimate for repairs. eHow.com notes that the lifespan of a roof can vary from 15 to 60 years. Signs that you might need a roof replacement include problems you can spot during a visual inspection, leaks, and mold.
- Window Trim: Check the trim around your windows for chipped paint and wood. This quick video offers a great explanation of the causes of wood rot, and the reasons you want to avoid expensive repairs. One tip from the video: If you’re not going to be using your windows for ventilation, remove the screens and store them in the basement.
- Chimney: Does your home have a chimney? If you use your fireplace, wood stove, or pellet stove regularly during the winter, spring is a good time to do some chimney maintenance so you’ll be ready when next winter rolls around. Examine the chimney’s exterior for damage, and be sure to have the flue inspected and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep. If you store firewood near your home, HGTV.com recommends that you store it at least 18 inches off the ground and two feet from your home.
- Outside Faucets: You’re probably going to need your outside faucets for gardening and outdoor cleaning this spring and summer, so make sure they are in good working order. Winter ice can damage faucets, or hoses that have been left outside. If the hose leaks or can’t be fastened securely to the faucet, replace it. Also check the hose for dry rot. One tip from HGTV.com: Turn the water on and put your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, the pipe leading to the faucet is likely damaged and should be replaced. Call your plumber.
- HVAC: As we discussed in detail in an earlier post, spring is a good time to schedule an Air Duct Cleaning so that your HVAC system will work efficiently, improving your home’s Indoor Air Quality.
- Concrete: HGTV notes that concrete slabs should be inspected for cracks or signs of movement. Exterior slabs should drain away from the foundation. If you notice any cracks, fill them with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. Then power-wash and seal the concrete.
- Kitchen Exhaust Hood and Air Filter: State Farm recommends that you clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter. Removing cooking grease will help prevent any stovetop fires from spreading.
- Electrical System: State Farm also recommends that you inspect your electrical system, including: check the main electrical panel for burn marks, loose connections or damaged insulation; trip and reset circuit breakers; remove combustible materials such as cardboard boxes or flammable liquids from the area near the main electrical panel; check all electrical outlets for loose-fitting or non-working plugs and have a qualified electrician fix any problems with outlets or switches; and install safety covers to help prevent children from electrical shock. Also, have any appliance or tool that gives even the slightest shock checked by an electrician or repair shop.
- Lawnmovers and Other Power Equipment: If you have a lawnmower, leaf blower, or other power equipment that has been sitting in the garage or shed all winter, now is a good time to clean it and make sure it is working properly. HomeServicesEngine.com offers a detailed checklist for servicing your lawnmower after the long winter months, and doing small checks before each spring and summer use. After winter, the site recommends changing the spark plug, air filter, gas filter, and oil filter; use fresh oil and gas; and grease and lube any fittings or moving parts. You’ll need that mower in the warm months to come!
With a little effort to check over your house and fix any problems, you’ll be all set for a safe and home-
For help with any of your cleaning needs, call the experts at Park-Ellis ServiceMaster today at 419-861-9602!
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