April showers bring May flowers. It’s finally time to bid farewell to freezing temps and snow- covered front lawns. Let’s get your home ready for spring, sunshine and warmer weather! Follow this guide to check tasks off your spring maintenance checklist.
Interior:
–Change Your Air Filters
Air filters are an important element to keeping the air in your home clean. They filter out dust, pet hair, pollen and other objects in the air that could affect breathing. Your filters have been hard at work over the winter months so be sure to change them consistently. Check your heating and cooling system’s manual for the size of air filter that is recommended.
– Review The Basement
If any place in your home is going to develop mold, it’s likely your basement. Moisture is one factor that leads to mold growth and moisture gets easily trapped in basements. Due to the lack of natural light and air flow in basements it’s unlikely mold will die off on its own down there. Smell the air for mold. Mold is commonly described as musty, dusty, or earthy smelling. You can use a light to help visually identify any signs of mold such as small black specks, areas that look like burn marks, or large areas that simply look dirty.
-Check and Replace Fire Extinguishers
Your fire extinguisher should be located somewhere in your home that’s visible with easy access. We recommend it be placed under the kitchen sink. A great way to check on the condition of your fire extinguisher is by reviewing the inspection tag. Make sure it is full and the pressure gauge is in the operable range or position. If your extinguisher is past due or does not have a visible expiration date on the tag it’s best to replace it.
-Check Your Attic for Unwanted Critters
While you’re snuggled on the couch trying to keep warm during the winter months, critters could be doing the same…. In your attic. Some of the most common signs of rodents or pests is animal waste, damaged insulation and structural damage. If you see any signs begin these steps to try to evict them: 1. Seal all holes or cracks with sealant or expanding foam. 2. Set any necessary traps. 3.Gather and dispose of any loose insulation. 4. Disinfect the area after the infestation has been remediated. 5. Reinstall your insulation as needed to ensure proper R value is maintained, we recommend R-60.
Exterior:
-Inspect Roof and Overhangs
Walk around the exterior of your home and inspect from the ground. You’re looking for any signs of sagging, damage or aging. Identify areas with moss, algae and piles of leaves. That type of buildup is notorious for causing costly leaks and water damage. As you continue your
inspection, keep a look out for any buckled, curled, damaged or missing shingles.
-Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Don’t neglect this crucial step during your spring cleanup. Keeping your gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris can help protect the exterior of your home from leaks, water damage, ice damage and insect infestation. The purpose of gutters and downspouts is to direct water away from your home, which is why keeping them clean and clear is so important.
-Trim Overgrown Trees and Shrubs
Tree pruning actually promotes new growth. When you remove damaged and struggling branches, your tree can dedicate more water and nutrients to other growing parts. When you trim, you’ll see new growth around where the cuts were made, creating a lusher and fuller tree.
-Inspect Sprinkler System
To ensure your system is running efficiently and ready for spring and summer use, it’s important to inspect and tune-up all the parts. Change the backup battery in your controller and make sure the right date and time are displayed, then enter the programming for your spring irrigation schedule. Inspect every sprinkler head for cracks and look for any obstructions such as overgrown grass or rocks. You may need to trim certain trees or bushes if they have now grown to block the path of the sprinkler. Straighten leaning sprinkler heads and adjust any that are too high or too low. These are various inspections you can do yourself, however, it is recommended you also hire a professional to inspect for any potential hidden damages.
-Clean Out Window Wells
Water intrusion and rodent infestation can easily occur at egress windows if not maintained properly. The natural shape of a window well attracts and retains debris which can house small rodents and create improper or reverse drainage. Keeping window wells clean and free of leaves and other debris is the best way to prevent rodents from creating a home in the well and potentially entering your home if the window is left open while they are present. . Also make sure your window well has proper drainage. To do so, place a small level on the ground within the well and ensure at least a ¼” per foot slope away from the foundation wall is present. This slope will allow water to flow out and away from your structure. If you have little or no slope, fill the half closest to the house with a sufficient amount of rocky soil to create adequate slope.