Step Into Spring: A Home Cleaning & Maintenance Checklist
Spring is right around the corner and, while you might be ready for warmer weather, your home could probably use some help.
Spring maintenance is more than just cleaning the house. There are both indoor and outdoor tasks you need to complete to ensure your home is in good shape for the rest of the year.
Ready to get started? We've got your ultimate spring maintenance checklist right here.
The House
Foundation: Check your foundation walls, floors, concrete and mason work for cracking, heaving or deterioration. If multiple bricks are losing their mortar or there are significant cracks in the concrete, bring in a professional to assess your foundation's status and prevent further deterioration.
Gutters: Cleaning the gutters annually or biannually is an essential part of home maintenance. Failing to properly maintain gutters and downspouts can cause serious damage to your house.
Siding: Clean the siding of your home with a pressure washer to keep mold from growing. This is also a good time to carefully inspect all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure.
Caulking: Take a look at the caulking on the exterior of your home. If it is deteriorating or eroding, you'll need to hire a professional to reapply the sealant.
Windows: Clean the window screens and check them for holes. If you find any, patch them before the warm weather comes so that they can keep bugs out. Tighten loose window frames and repaint them as needed. You should also check the window sills for cracks.
Doors: If you have doors with screens, clean the screens and check for holes like you would with windows. If the structure of the door or door frame is seriously damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Roof: Check for leaves and debris that may have piled up on your roof over the winter. In order to prevent rot, debris, mold and algae that have accumulated should be removed.
Deck/Porch: Check your deck, patio or porch, as well as stairs and railings, for loose parts and deterioration. Areas that are exposed to the elements year-round typically need to be treated every 4-6 years.
Rooms: Spring is the start of remodeling season. Stay ahead of the game by giving high-traffic spaces, like your kitchen, bathrooms or whole house, a facelift.
Drain-waste-vent system: The "DWV system" is the system of pipes that moves sewage away from your home. An annual flush will clear out clogs and prevent costly plumbing mishaps.
Hot Water Heater: Have a professional do a regular inspection of your hot water heater. This is important because inefficient hot water heaters can emit carbon monoxide, a lethal and odorless gas.
Heat Pump: In order to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, you should clean your heat pump's filters on a monthly basis. Check at least every three months for blockage at the base of the pump. Such blockage could restrict its airflow. Have a professional lubricate the fan motor every 3-4 years.
Air Conditioner: You want to make sure your A/C is running properly before the weather gets warm. Schedule an annual checkupwith an HVAC contractor in your area.
The Yard
Landscape: Remove fallen branches and debris from your yard. Trim overgrown bushes and vegetation — especially if there are branches that could scratch the paint on your home or car.
Sprinklers: If you have a sprinkler system, make sure that it's working properly. If you don't have a sprinkler system, you may want to consult with a professional about having one installed.
Article Source: HomeAdvisor
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