April Showers Bring – Spring Home Maintenance List!

We are so ready for the arrival of warm weather after what was definitely a long cold winter and now a wet chilly spring.  What preventive maintenance should you do in the Spring to prevent major problems to your home? We’d like to share this checklist to help you avoid big repair bills, increase the efficiency of your mechanicals  – and have time to play in the sunshine later.

OUTDOOR MAINTENANCE

1. Check for loose and leaky gutters. Improper drainage can lead to water in the basement. Make sure downspout drain away from the foundation and are free and clear of debris.

2. Low areas in the yard or next to the foundation should be filled in with compacted soil. Spring rains can cause yard flooding, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage. And when water pools in these low areas in the summer, it can also be breeding ground for mosquitos.

3. Inspect your roof. Now is the time to inspect and repair shingles, flashing around vents, skylights and chimneys to prevent water damage inside your home.

4. Examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

5. Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. All exterior slabs should drain away from the home’s foundation. Fill in cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. Power wash and then seal the concrete.

6. Have a qualified heating and cooling contractor clean and service the outside unit of the air conditioning system.  Clear away vegetation  as the air compressor needs good airflow to work efficiently.

7. Check caulking around all doors and windows. Improper caulking allows for moisture to get inside your walls and cause mold. This is also a perfect time to wash all windows and replace damaged screens.

8. Pressure wash your deck  and re-stain if needed.

9. Repair any cracked or peeling paint on your home, which makes your home look nice and provides a barrier from the elements.

10. Prepare your lawn mower for summer. Change the engine oil and sharpen the cutting blade.

INDOOR MAINTENANCE

11. Replace your furnace filter. A dirty filter lowers the efficiency of your home’s HVAC system.

12. Check and replace fire extinguishers. Check the gauges to make sure they are charged and ready for use.

13. Test smoke and fire alarms, replacing batteries and cleaning dust from the covers.

14. Clean ceiling fans. In addition to providing a calming breeze, ceiling fans increase the airflow throughout your home.

15. Deep clean your carpets.

16. Clean out your refrigerator and freezer. Vacuum the coils for maximum efficiency.

17. Inspect the washing machine fill hose. Look for cracks that could become leaks. A leaky hose under pressure can cause major damage in a short period of time.

By taking time now to prepare your home for spring, you’ll save money on your utility bills, avoid big repair bills later on, and have plenty of time to enjoy the nice (and hopefully drier!) days ahead.