With the emergence of spring comes the perfect opportunity to give your home a thorough check up and make sure all is in good working order. Without an annual tune-up, you may be at risk of long-term damage or costly repairs.
Start outside and inspect windows, doors, siding, and roofing for any signs of damage from weather or age. Make sure gutters are clean and free from debris, as this could lead to foundation issues if not resolved quickly. Inside, remove window screens to be washed, change air filters, and check for signs of seasonal allergies like pet dander and mildew buildup. Finally, go through all rooms thoroughly to identify any potential problems that should be addressed by a professional such as plumbing leaks or electrical wiring faults.
Engaging in this maintenance checklist in the spring will help ensure your home remains comfortable and safe year-round. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you should consider doing.
After the winter, your outdoor faucets may have been affected by cold temperatures, so you should check them for leaks and damage. Turn on the water supply to the outdoor faucet and check if it's working properly. If there are any leaks or damages, get them fixed by a professional plumber before using them.
If you have a sump pump in your basement, you should test it before the rainy season begins. Pour water into the sump pit and see if the pump kicks on and removes the water properly. A sump pump is a must-have appliance for any basement or underground storage space. It's easy to take it for granted and ignore it until something goes wrong. The best way to prevent a disaster from occurring is to test your sump pump once a year and make sure it is doing its job properly. An easy way to do this is by adding water to the basin and checking for drainage; you should also listen for the typical hum as the pump does its job. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, be sure to have an expert come in and investigate before more serious damage occurs.
Keeping your HVAC filters clean and free of dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens is important for maintaining a healthy home environment. Check your HVAC filter regularly and replace it as needed. If you don't replace the filter when necessary then the air being circulated in your home can become unhealthy due to all the pollutants that get trapped in it. Not only will replacing your filter keep your air quality optimal, but doing so will also reduce energy costs because a clean filter allows for more efficient airflow throughout the house. Make it part of your regular maintenance routine to check and replace your HVAC filters often for maximum benefit.
Regularly checking your roof for damage is an important part of home maintenance and can make all the difference in not just preserving your roof, but also potentially avoiding damage to other parts of the house like interior walls and ceilings. Inspecting is best done during dry days, making sure to check the entire roof, especially areas near trees and possible water drainage points. Problem areas will usually show signs such as damaged or missing shingles as well as mold which indicates water leakage. If you find that it is beyond your capacity to do an inspection, don't hesitate to call for professional help or even a second opinion. By being proactive about your roofing care and following up on any recommended repairs, you are keeping family and property safe from damage and ensuring greater comfort throughout the seasons.
Don't let clogged gutters and downspouts put your house at risk of water damage! It may take some hard work, but cleaning them out is an essential task that should be done regularly. Moreover, it helps with the overall maintenance of your home, as debris-filled gutters and downspouts can cause other problems like roof decay and even insect infestations. Taking the time now to remove any dirt or foliage in those areas will save you money and stress in the future.
Cold drafts coming in through the windows and doors of your home can make even the coziest house feel like an icy cave in the middle of winter. Not only is it unpleasant to be sitting in a chilly room, but those cold air leaks can also cost you a hefty sum on your monthly energy bills. Inspecting your windows and doors regularly for gaps or cracks can help you keep more money in your pocket and help keep your home warm. Even something as small as sealing up any noticeable crevices with caulk or some hot glue can make a big difference.
Taking care of cracked walls and foundations is a must for any homesteader. It can be easy to overlook these seemingly minor cracks, but the damage that these small fissures can cause makes it extremely important to take action before they get worse. Cracks in walls or foundations could lead to leaky roofs, weakened structures, and hazardous mold growth. If found early enough, simple repairs such as patching with caulk or concrete can do the trick.
Maintaining the exterior of your home can make a big difference in its overall aesthetic and value. Pressure washing is an effective way to get rid of dirt, mildew, and grime that builds up over time. The process involves using a pressure washer that propels high-velocity streams of water with special cleaning solutions to quickly and thoroughly remove debris from the entire surface area. Not only does this help add curb appeal to your home, but it can also protect your siding, shingles, or other materials by getting rid of mold or fungus growths before they can cause further damage. Pressure washing your home is an easy and cost-efficient way to keep its exterior looking clean and new again.
