The temperatures are rising, and the outside world is returning to life. Now’s the perfect time to spruce up your home before the days get too hot. Here’s a roof-to-roots rundown of home maintenance checks to get done in the springtime.
- Inspect your roof shingles: Don’t wait until fall for this task. If winter weather has compromised your roofing, the hot summer sun will only worsen any problems. Checking now can prevent more expensive repairs later.
- Clean and inspect your gutters: Remove debris, check for cracks and leaks, and ensure all downspouts point away from your home’s foundation. Consider installing gutter screens if you don’t already have them.
- Examine your attic: Check for animal nests built during the cooler months, signs of leaks, and remove anything obstructing your vents.
- Reinforce your windows: Ensure windows open and close readily, screens are in good condition, and re-caulk or replace the weatherstrip to control heat and humidity through the warmer months.
- Tune up your air conditioner: Have a professional inspect your AC unit to replace filters, clean coils, and correct any issues. Annual servicing ensures peak efficiency and minimized energy costs.
- Test outdoor faucets: Check for frost damage to your home’s pipework. If you can stop the water flow with your thumb, there may be a leaky pipe inside your home.
- Repair damaged concrete: Inspect your home’s foundation, outdoor steps, and walkways for cracks, heaving, or breakage to prevent structural concerns and pest access.
- Inspect lawn care equipment: Get your lawnmower and hedge trimmers ready for summer lawn work by sharpening blades, checking oil, and inspecting batteries.
- Tidy up your outdoor space: Check trees for breakage or stress, clear away old foliage, and store firewood at least 60 centimeters away from your home and 45 centimeters off the ground.
Too much to tackle on your own? Hire local experts to take on your home maintenance to-do list so you can enjoy the warm weather.