‘Tis the time for spring cleaning. Each year, we declutter our homes and give them a deep cleaning. As we are cleaning and decluttering this spring, let’s not forget about the spring home maintenance that our homes need.
Use this checklist for spring home maintenance to keep your home in tip-top shape
Caulk
Not only may your bathtub need a new caulking this spring, but outside your windows may need one, too. Caulking is a must spring home maintenance project. If you notice the caulk pulling away from the house with gaps or if you notice cracks within the caulk, it is a good idea to replace it with new caulk.
Paint
Paint doesn’t last forever. There may be some places where you notice a new coat of paint needs to be applied due to the wood behind exposed. This may be in places like wooden pillars, the bottom of doorways, above the garage door, fencing, etc. Make exterior painting part of your spring home maintenance plan.
Stain
If you have procrastinated with staining your fence, decking, or maybe even that new patio swing, now is the time to start and finish the job. The longer you leave the wood exposed to the elements, the less its longevity. Staining will not only look sharp, but will also keep your investment lasting long term into the future.
Change Filters
Replacing filters in your home is a spring home maintenance task that should not be overlooked. Filters can accumulate dust and pet hair faster than you can say “dirt”. Now is a good time to replace furnace filters and air filters in your home.
Pressure Wash
The exterior of our homes can get dirty, just like our cars. If left untreated, sidewalks, driveways, decking, and siding can start to grow unsightly mold. Pressure wash these areas to keep them looking vibrant and mold-free. If you do not own a pressure washer, you can usually rent one from your local hardware store.
Clean Dryer Vent
Prevent a house fire by cleaning your dryer vent! This is one spring home maintenance task that can literally save your life and the lives of your family. It is a good practice to have this done each spring. Many house fires could have been prevented by a simple dryer vent cleaning.
Clean Gutters
The snow may be gone, but the leaves and sticks are left behind – stuck in your gutters. Before the major spring showers and storms arrive, you should clear your gutters of all debris. Also, make sure your downspouts are aimed away from the home so that water does not pool along the side of your house, leaking down to the foundation. Here in the Midwest, this spring home maintenance project is high priority and should ideally be completed before April.
Inspect Roof
While you are up there cleaning the gutters, take a look at your roof. Leaky roofs can cause major damage. Do you see any shingles missing or flashing torn away from your chimney? If so, you will need to repair the damage or call a professional for assistance.
Trim Bushes and Trees
As the buds appear and leaves form, the landscape becomes green and lush. Before the bushes and trees fill out, take your shears or hedge clippers and give your shrubs, bushes, and trees a good trim. They will fill out at your desired size and shape without having to cut them back later and expose unsightly stick and branches.
Spring home maintenance is an essential part of yearly spring cleaning. With the above checklist in hand, you won’t neglect your home’s essential need for routine maintenance. Your home is a major investment and spring home maintenance will ensure your investment lasts a lifetime.
