With the days lengthening and weather warming, spring is a good time to get outdoors and tackle some larger home projects. Now that the threat of winter storms has passed, you can look for damage and make any needed repairs, as well as prep your home and garden for summer.  The newness and freshness of spring are inspiring and can be just what we need to tackle our home’s biggest, most daunting to-dos. Use this spring home maintenance checklist to undo any damage from winter. This will let you relax during the warmer months, knowing your house is in top shape. Here’s exactly what you need to do in order to get ready for the warmer weather:

Gutters

Winter takes its toll on the plant life around your house, and that’s bad news for your gutters. Use the spring season as a reminder to clear fallen leaves and other debris from your gutters. You’ll be thanking yourself when the spring showers turn to downpours and all that water can safely and effectively drain away from your home!

To knock this task off your spring home maintenance checklist, climb safely up a ladder and remove anything you find in the gutter. Then, run a hose up to your roof so you can ensure proper drainage all the way through the downspout. When the water pours out, make sure it runs away from your home’s foundation. Also, check that all downspouts are still securely attached to your home and fix any that have pulled away.

Hardscaping

Winter temps aren’t easy on hardscaping. Check your driveway and walkways for any signs of damage. Smaller concrete cracks can probably be easily filled if you’re a DIYer, but larger damage to concrete or asphalt generally requires a pro.

Woodcare

Winter’s cold and moisture can be hard on exterior woodwork like decks and railings. This is the perfect time of year to power wash and reseal all of your home’s wood fixtures so you can enjoy clean, beautiful wood when you’re dining al fresco or relaxing in the yard once the temperatures warm up. Wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas and other outdoor structures will last longer and stay in better condition if they’re stained or resealed every year or two.

Protect your home against pests

Fill any holes—or cracks in your foundation or walls—to avoid having insects and rodents enter your home. When you go to your local home improvement store or nursery to stock up on planting supplies, ask if you should be using pesticides, and if so, what kind.

Roof Inspection

Inspect roof. Winter storms can take quite a toll on the roof. When spring arrives, start by making a simple visual inspection of your roof. Use binoculars or a camera or smartphone with a telephoto feature if you need to. Look for missing shingles, metal pipes that are damaged or missing or anything that simply doesn’t look right. If you notice anything that needs closer inspection or repair, give us a call.