Just like a car, a house needs regular maintenance to keep it in good condition for years to come. Being consistent in your home’s upkeep also helps you avoid expensive repairs when it’s time to sell your home.
So now that winter is gone and the season has changed, be sure to add these tasks on top of your spring cleaning routine to prepare your home for spring and the warmer days ahead.
1. Check your roofing system. The harsh winter weather can cause damages to your roof, gutters, and downspouts. Be sure to inspect your gutters for holes and cracks and clear any debris immediately to avoid clogs when it rains. Clogs can cause the rainwater to back up towards your home and cause expensive damages. Additionally, don’t forget to do a visual inspection of your roof to see if there are any missing or damaged shingles. It’s also a great idea to check the attic for any signs of leaks or moisture. If you notice any part that needs repair or replacement, hire a professional roofer to help you out.
2. Schedule an air conditioning tune-up. Sure, you may not need your AC until the summer arrives, but it’s always a good idea to get ahead by cleaning your unit and making sure it’s in good working condition before you use it (no one wants to wake up to a broken air conditioning on a hot summer day). First, ensure that any debris is cleared from the outdoor unit. Leaves, twigs, and other vegetation should be removed to avoid damaging the parts and so as not to affect the efficiency of the unit. And if you’re planning to grow some plants near your air conditioning unit, be sure to leave two to three feet of clear space. Additionally, don’t forget to change your HVAC filter! This task should be done regularly, especially when the seasons change.
3. Check and clean your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors and install new batteries if necessary. This is a very simple yet very important task, so make this a priority every season.
4. Protect your home against pests. Holes and cracks in your walls or foundation are not just “cosmetic” issues. They also provide unwelcome guests such as insects and rodents easy access to your home. Be sure to avoid infestations by doing an inspection of your exterior and filling in holes and cracks.
5. Inspect your windows and doors. The winter weather can cause the seal around your windows and doors to crack or loosen. Check the caulking for damages and repair as necessary. Doing so will help decrease the cooling costs in the summer and will keep the water out of your home when it rains. Additionally, check your screens and fix any holes to keep the insects out.
6. Fix any siding issues. Inspect your siding for damages. If you notice rotting, cracking, or extremely weathered pieces, be sure to repair them right away. If you have wood siding and the paint is peeling off, you may simply scrape them off, sand, and repaint as necessary.
7. Revive your deck. Check your deck for any deteriorating or loose boards. Replace the parts as necessary and consider resealing it as well to make sure it’s protected all throughout the season. If you have a composite deck, a simple power wash will also make wonders!
8. Jumpstart your lawn care routine! Ahh, spring! After a long, dark winter, the sun is out again and the plants are coming back to life. But before you start planting again, be sure to check for loose or broken branches and trim shrubs and trees as necessary. Rake away any leaves, branches, and clutter hiding under the snow all winter.
9. Check your plumbing. The plumbing system is prone to damages due to the change in weather. Be sure to check for signs of leaks. Look up at your ceilings for water stains, under the sink, and your walls. Listen for dripping faucets and running toilets. And when it comes to plumbing issues, don’t delay. Call a licensed plumber right away if you need repairs or replacements!
10. Free up some space. Spring is the perfect time to declutter and to get rid of the things that have been accumulating in your home. There are many ways and techniques to declutter, but the easiest way is to make a room-by-room plan so it’s not too overwhelming. You may also check out our list of simple ways to get rid of clutter in your home. Choose the best that works for you and your household. Remember that decluttering does not have to be done in one day or two, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Whether you’re selling your home this spring or not, doing these basic maintenance tasks is always a good idea. If you need to sell your home fast, talk to one of our real estate agents today at 800-976-SOLD to learn more about your options!