10 Maintenance Tips To Get Your Home Ready For Spring

With spring almost upon us, it is a good time to prep your home for warmer weather. Take this time to look for damage and make any needed repairs, as well as prep your home and garden for summer.

1) Inspect driveways and paths. Freezing and thawing are rough on concrete, asphalt and other hardscape materials. Take a walk around your property to look for damage to walkways, paths and driveways, then schedule repairs as needed. Asphalt can often be patched, but damaged concrete may need to be replaced entirely.

2) Wash windows. Clean the grime off glass inside and out for a lighter, brighter home indoors and increased curb appeal outdoors. Wash the exterior windows yourself by using a hose attachment, or hire a pro to get the job done.

3) Clean gutters and downspouts. After the last frost has passed, it’s important to have your gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause damage to trim and lead to rot.

4) Check sprinkler and irrigation systems. Checking your sprinklers or irrigation systems in the spring can save water — and your plants.

• Run the system through all the zones manually and walk the property.
• Make sure none of the sprinkler heads are broken or damaged.
• Adjust any heads that are spraying the house, especially windows, as this can cause moisture problems.
• Adjust heads that are spraying the street, sidewalk or porches to avoid wasting water.

5) Check screen doors and windows. Screens are designed to let the breeze flow in and keep the bugs out, but they can only do their job if they’re free from holes and tears.

6) Recaulk windows and doors. Inspect and, if necessary, caulk around your home's windows and doors annually. That will help keep out heat and humidity in the summer and cold drafts in the winter—and save money on your utility bills all year round.

7) Inspect the roof. Winter storms can take quite a toll on a roof. When spring arrives, start by making a simple visual inspection of yours. 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, call a roofer.

8) Paint exterior. If you’re planning to repaint your home’s exterior this year, spring is a good time to set it up.

9) Reseal exterior woodwork. Wood decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas and other outdoor structures will last longer if they’re stained or resealed every year or two. Take this opportunity to make any needed repairs to woodwork as well.

10) Schedule air-conditioning service. To get the longest life out of your cooling system and keep it running as efficiently as possible, change the filters at least once each season, and hire a licensed professional to service the equipment before the start of summer.