Spring is finally here, and that means it’s time for homeowners to start thinking about all the necessary home maintenance tasks they need to do to get their property ready for the warmer months.
From cleaning the gutters to checking the roof for leaks, there are many things you can’t afford to skip if you want your home to be in tip-top shape. So, what are the most critical spring home maintenance tasks you need to take care of? Here’s a look at 10 of them:
1. Clean the gutters
You don’t want to skip this task, as it can lead to problems if your gutters are full of leaves and debris. Not only can it cause water to back up and potentially damage your roof, but it can also lead to foundation problems if the gutters are allowed to overflow. That’s why it’s essential to clean them out at least once a year, and spring is the perfect time to do it.
2. Check the roof for leaks
Another vital task to take care of in the spring is to check your roof for any leaks or other damage. This is especially important if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice in the winter, as the thawing and freezing can cause damage to your roof that you may not be aware of. If the damage is irreparable, you should get new corrugated roofing sheets to replace the old ones.
3. Inspect the exterior of your home
It’s also a good idea to take a walk around the outside of your home and inspect it for any damage that may have occurred over the winter. This includes looking for cracks in the foundation, gaps in the siding, and any other signs of wear and tear. You can catch any problems early and have them repaired before they become significant issues.
4. Check your windows and doors
Another vital task to take care of in the spring is to check all your windows and doors to make sure they’re still in good condition. This includes looking for cracks, gaps, or any other damage that may have occurred over the winter. Taking the time to do this now can help you avoid dealing with any costly repairs down the road.
5. Clean your chimney
If you have a fireplace, it’s essential to have your chimney cleaned in the spring to be ready to use when the weather gets cooler again. This is also an excellent time to inspect your fireplace and ensure no cracks or other damage. If there are, you’ll want to have them repaired before using your fireplace again.
6. Service your air conditioner
If you have central air conditioning, it’s a good idea to have it serviced in the spring to be ready to use when the weather gets hot. This includes cleaning the coils and ensuring the unit is adequately charged with refrigerant. Do this before summer, so you don’t have to deal with a broken air conditioner in the middle of a heatwave.
7. Change the filters in your furnace
It’s also a good idea to change the filters in your furnace in the spring to be ready to use when the weather gets cold again. This is especially important if you have allergies, as dirty furnace filters can worsen your symptoms. Take advantage of spring cleaning to freshen up your home and eliminate any allergens that may be lurking in your furnace.
8. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Another vital task to take care of in the spring is to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working correctly. This is an excellent time to change the detectors’ batteries if necessary. You can rest assured that your home is safe from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
9. Flush your water heater
It’s also a good idea to flush your water heater in the spring to remove any sediment built up over the winter. This is a simple task that you can do yourself, and it will help keep your water heater running efficiently. You can do this by attaching a hose to the drain valve and opening it up to let the water run out until it’s clear.
10. Trim trees and bushes
Finally, it’s a good idea to trim any trees or bushes near your home. This will help prevent damage to your home from falling branches, and it will also make your yard look more excellent. You’ll need to rent a ladder and some pruning shears to do this. You can also hire a professional to do this for you if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
Now that you know about some critical spring home maintenance tasks you need to take care of, it’s time to get started! These tasks may seem like a lot of work, but they’re worth doing to keep your home in good condition.