As warmer weather becomes more commonplace with the return of spring there are a variety of maintenance items that you, as a homeowner, should be aware of. We’ve compiled a list of maintenance items for both the interior and exterior of your home. 

These items should be taken seriously to prevent any bigger issues down the road. It will also be helpful to keep this list for years to come as a reminder on how to maintain your home in the spring.  

10 Springtime Home Maintenance Tasks

1) Check The Roof

Severe winter weather can potentially lead to damage to your roof. As the weather gets warmer and the snow begins to melt it is a good idea to take a look at your roof. You’ll want to do a visual inspection and look for any missing or damaged shingles and for any signs of leaking or cracks. If you find any issues and are not comfortable fixing them on your own call in a professional to help you out. 

 

2) Clear the Gutters

Clearing your gutters is something every homeowner should get comfortable doing. It is important to check them in the spring to make sure they are prepared for heavy rains. It is also important to clean out any debris and check for any areas where repair is needed. Replace any areas that are damaged beyond repair and fill in any holes that could lead to water leaking where you do not want it. Also double-check to make sure the downspouts are draining the right way. 

 

3) Inspect Any Concrete 

Concrete is known to crack, especially in areas that go through periods of freezing and thawing the way New England does. Once all the snow melts and all concrete is visible go around and look for any cracks. Common areas that see cracking are driveways, decks, foundations, and walkways. Fill any smaller cracks with a silicone filler or concrete filler. Any larger cracks that are found on the foundation should be shown to a specialist. These cracks can sometimes be signs of bigger issues. 

 

4) Check The Deck 

Having lots of people over and gathering outside is a great way to spend the warmer months. However, before having too many people on your deck at once you’ll want to check and make sure it is safe for use. Inspect the deck for any signs of discoloration, staining, or warping. Make sure to check for loose or rusted nails. Lastly, secure any rails or stairs that feel loose. 

 

5) Tend to Your Lawn and Landscaping 

Once all the snow is gone from your lawn it is a good idea to take some time to clean it up and prepare for the grass to start growing. It is important to remove any debris from the lawn such as leaves or branches as these can damage lawn care equipment. Also, take this time to trim any bushes or trees that may have grown towards your home. Vegetation that makes contact with your home can lead to other issues such as pest infiltration and water damage. 

 

6) Open Your Windows

This may seem like a simple task but it can help get you and your home feeling ready for spring. Opening your windows will allow fresh air into your home which will help get stagnant air out of your home. You can also use this time to clean your windows and window sills. This will get rid of any dust or allergens that may have accumulated during the winter months. 

 

7) Check the Basement and Attic for Any Signs of Moisture 

With the combination of melting snow and increased rainfall in the spring, it is important to check for areas of moisture in your basement and attic. Signs of moisture can be visible leaks, water staining, mold, and any odd smells in the area. Seal off any of these areas that have the potential to lead to moisture issues. Taking the time now to check for these areas can save you in the long run. 

 

8) Change HVAC Filters

HVAC systems get lots of use during the winter months. To prepare for summer make sure you are checking and changing any filters. Lots of dust and allergens can accumulate on the filter so to make sure you are breathing in clean air it is important to change them after heavy use. Changing the filters will also ensure that your HVAC system is functioning properly and being used efficiently. 

 

9) Check Your Sump Pump 

Another important item to check before heavy rains start to fall is your sump pump. Some of you may not have a sump pump installed in your home but those that do want to make sure it is working properly. Having a properly functioning sump pump will help with any moisture issues your home may have. If it is not functioning properly when heavy rains come it can lead to serious problems. If you do not have a sump pump but your basement experiences moisture issues it may be something to consider installing. 

 

10) Consider Upgrades

Spring is a great time to get started on some upgrades. It won’t be too hot and it won’t be too cold to put the work in. Some things you can look at upgrading in your home include insulation, doors and windows, programmable thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances. 

 

Many of the maintenance items we have listed are all important items to take care of to prevent any larger issues from occurring. Some of the items might be worth checking more than once a year depending on the use and what the item is. Don’t be afraid to check these items even after spring is over! 

Stay tuned in to our blog for other home maintenance tips and all of the home care needs you need to know!