Taking care of your home is an on-going task. Though new homes don’t require renovations, they do need regular maintenance. From power washing your windows and siding, to checking the furnace filter, these little things can go a long way to maintain the value of your home, and in some cases, keep your family safe.
It’s suggested at least twice per year that homeowners run through a maintenance checklist. We suggest Spring and Fall as they are both sandwiched in between the more extreme seasons, and having mild temperatures works well for some of the outdoor tasks.
Here is our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist:
Power wash windows and siding – It’s good to keep the dirt and grime that comes from winter at a minimum each year. Don’t let it build up over multiple seasons. If you don’t have a washer, there are sprayers that use garden/eco-friendly detergents.
Inspect roofing for loose or damaged shingles – A visual inspection from a distance will work, but nothing beats an up-close review. Be careful on steep or complicated roof lines. If you have concerns, don’t be afraid to call a professional.
Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts – Though it’s best to do it in the fall (before the cold comes and freezes the water and debris) you’ll still want to clear them in the spring to ensure they are not blocked from buildup over the melt.
Check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – Keep your family safe and ensure all detectors are functioning and properly placed.
Test fire extinguishers – There is nothing more frightening than not being prepared for a fire. A simple test of your fire extinguishers can save your life down the road. Place your extinguishers near common sources of fire, including washer/dryers, kitchen appliances, and the utility room.
Clean carpets – Winter and the Spring melt can be hard on carpeting with dust and sand tracking in. With the snow melted and dried up, it’s a great time to get the floors looking clean for the summer.
Vacuum lint from dryer vent – Over time, lint can build up in your dryer ventilation. This can become a fire hazard if left unchecked.
Oil squeaky hinges and doors – Well-oiled hinges play a large role in the longevity of your doors.
Schedule a furnace/AC inspection – Many people do this in the fall, but the Spring is also a great time. Furnace companies are typically less busy this time of year which may give you more scheduling options.
Check bathroom caulking for deterioration – Caulking doesn’t generally degrade quickly, but over time it can begin to pull away from the wall and cease to do its job.
Check the garage door for lubrication – Garage doors are expensive to repair and replace. You can avoid those hefty bills by making sure it’s well-oilled. Follow maintenance instructions with your opener.
Mold testing – This is very important in homes of all ages. Winter time and the Spring melt bring with them plenty of water. Water, if left sitting, creates mold. Mold is very hazardous to the air quality in your home. We suggest asking an expert for help.
Touch up peeling or worn paint – keeping a solid and sealed coat of paint on your home and its features helps prevent wear. Keep your extra paint in a cool dry place to use for touch-ups. If you don’t have any extra paint, record the brand and number so you can have the store mix more in the future.
Fertilize your lawn – Fertilizing your lawn allows the grass to receive nutrients it may be craving desperately after a season of sitting under the snow.
Check foundation for leaks and cracks – This is important, as leaks and cracks can lead to deterioration and mold. Over time, our clay-rich soil can pull away from your foundation allowing water to run down the wall. Fill any gaps with dense soil or quarter-down stone at a steep angle for drainage. For larger openings, call a foundation company for recommendations.
Exercise circuit breakers to prevent rust and debris accumulating – Keeping your electrical in top shape should be top priority as repairs can be dangerous and should only be attempted by professionals.