Tasks To Include In Your Spring Home Maintenance Checklist
Springtime is the season for blooming plants and brighter days. But it’s also the season for home maintenance. Here’s what your checklist should include.
With many amazing things that come with spring, it’s not surprising that it is the favorite season of many. You get more hours of daylight, the temperature is more pleasant, and it’s just a great time to be outdoors that enjoy the fresh air and blooming nature. But for most homeowners, spring is also a great opportunity to get some house maintenance tasks done. It is the right time to prep your house and garden for the summer too!
The warmer weather and longer days are ideal for tuning up your lovely home’s features and systems. Keep reading for the four major tasks that you should include in your spring home maintenance list.
Look For Termites
According to researchers, termites cause billion-dollar worth of house damages every year. These destructive pests can crawl up into your home’s foundation and sill plates, and eat wood. It pays to stay vigilant as these pests can give you expensive damages. Some signs of possible termite infestation include mud tubes, hollow wood, peeling or bubbling paint, headbanging or clicking sounds on your wall, and frass.
If you have a termite infestation in the house, it’s better to call on an experienced pest control company. These professionals are trained to handle such problems and are also equipped with the right commercial-grade products and equipment.
As for prevention, make sure to check for leaks and fill in cracks or seal openings on your home’s foundation. Also, pay attention to wood. Avoid leaving tree stumps in the backyard or stacking firewood against your home, as these can attract termites.
Check The Plumbing System
Some homeowners often neglect to care for their plumbing system, leading to costly disasters. In fact, others only find time to check their water and sewer pipes once there are already leaks. That said, be sure to include checking your plumbing system on your spring maintenance list. Some of the specific tasks you need to do regularly, not just on spring, include clearing clogs, checking the sinks for signs of moisture or leaks, and testing shower drains for slow drainage.
Don’t forget to schedule inspections throughout the year to detect early signs of plumbing damage. If your sewer lines are already damaged or major leaks on your toilets, call on a professional plumber right away for a proper trenchless sewer pipe repair.
Clean Gutters And Downspouts
After the frosty season, it is now time to clean or repair your gutters and downspouts. If they are clogged, they can attract various kinds of critters in your attic and cause the eaves’ wood trim to rot. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts is can also help protect your roof, prevent water damage on your home’s interior and exterior, and minimize the risk of a damaged foundation. And most of all, it can save you from expensive projects like roof replacement.
You can start cleaning your gutters and downspouts by positioning a ladder against the roof and placing your trash bag or bucket into it. Be sure to use work gloves for safety. You can then clean out the debris by using a spade or trowel to scoop them out. Use a high-pressure water hose to loosen up clogs on your downspouts. If it’s still clogged, you can utilize a drain snake to remove the blockage. If you have an extra budget, you can install a gutter screen to prevent unnecessary debris collection or leaves after the cleaning.
Inspect The Roof
Undoubtedly, one of the most expensive parts of your house is the roof. If you have been ignoring that loose shackle or tiny leak for too long, you might be on the verge of paying for some costly repairs or replacement. Cleaning the gutters is just one of the things you can do to keep your roof in good condition. On top of that, be sure to inspect your roof for any sign of moss buildup. You can use a detergent or chlorine bleach mixed with water to kill the moss growing on your roof.
If trees are surrounding your house, trim any overhanging branches that could damage the shingles. These branches can also provide rodents access to the roof and gnaw it. For this task, it’s best to call on a professional to prevent further roof damage and for your safety as well.
It’s lovely to see the vibrant tree colors and blooming flowers in your garden during spring. But the season can get even better if you ensure your house is in great condition and ready for the summer as well. Use our tips here and include as many other tasks as you need to avoid bigger and more expensive repairs down the line.