HOMEOWNER CHECKLIST : 7 THINGS TO DO BEFORE SPRING
Veronica Passalacqua
Spring is the perfect time to give the interior & exterior of your home a good walk around, to make repairs and freshen things up for the warmer months ahead. Here are my top 7 Spring Home Maintenance recommendations:
1. Check your gutters and downspouts for damage and debris.
Clogs and debris from the Winter months can cause the wood trim at your eaves to rot, and that can invite all kinds of critters into your attic space. Having your gutters and downspouts cleaned early in the season can also help prevent damage from spring rains, ensuring water is diverted away and does not collect around your foundation.
2. Paint!
A fresh coat of exterior paint can do wonders to refresh your home. If you’re planning to repaint Spring is a great time to begin collecting estimates and schedule with a professional.
3. Check your irrigation systems.
Ensure your sprinklers are operational, your system is free of leaks, and adjust any sprinkler heads that are spraying onto sidewalks, the driveway, or garden paths. Maintaining your system early in the season can mean saving on your water bill through the year.
4. Check screen doors and windows.
Screens are designed to let the breeze flow in and keep bugs & debris out- but they can only do their job if they’re free of damage. Screen repairs are easy and you can find repair kits at most local hardware stores.
5. Schedule air-conditioning service.
Don’t wait until the hot months arrive to discover your AC is on the fritz! To ensure your cooling system is functional for years to come change the filters at least once each season, and hire a licensed professional to check and service your system at season changes.
6. Check your deck, fences, trellis, and pergolas.
Look for warped, loose or splintered boards, and do a good sweep to remove any leaves or debris that may have accumulated in the space between boards. If the finish is faded or worn, now is the time to clean, stain, and reseal it.
7. Prepare for more outdoor living.
If you stored your patio furniture for the winter, bring it outdoors and give it a hose rinse, or wash it with a mild detergent. For metal furniture, check for signs of rust or paint erosion.
Give your grill or outdoor kitchen a look. Check burner jets for clogs and obstructions, be sure that gas hoses and connections are sound and secure, and refill your propane bottles. For charcoal grills make certain your grill is clean of ash and free of grease residue.
Through each home buying & selling process I utilize numerous local home maintenance professionals. If you have a job that’s just too big for a DIY give me a shout and I can help you find a local pro who fits your needs. You can also check out a list of my most frequently recommended vendors here.