1. Check your roof
Over the winter, your roof can take a beating from heavy snow, hail, rain, wind and even debris or fallen tree branches. This may result in damage to your roofing shingles, which, over time can lead to more serious structural damage to your roof like sagging and weak spots.
You can perform a visual inspection from the ground. Or, if your home has two stories or more, hire a licensed professional to inspect the roof.
If you find storm-related damage, contact your insurance company immediately. Most homeowners insurance policies require timely reporting of damage. A delay in reporting could lead to coverage implications. Learn more about the signs you need a new roof and when it's time to take action.
2. Inspect and clean your gutters
Exterior home maintenance includes inspecting your gutters and their downspouts. These items are important; proper systems redirect rainwater away from your home, preventing water damage or damage to the foundation. Gutters that become clogged with a buildup of leaves or debris can lead to blockages and even attract pests.
You can inspect and clean your gutters on your own, or you can hire a professional. Whatever approach you choose, the process involves cleaning out leaves, twigs and other debris, and flushing the gutters with a hose to ensure water freely flows through. You can then check for leaks or sagging or broken sections.
3. Schedule service to your HVAC system
The HVAC system that provides heat and air conditioning is an expensive and critical part of your home. While some tasks can be accomplished DIY, have a professional inspect your system and perform spring HVAC maintenance at least once a year.
A tune-up helps to keep the system running properly – and many HVAC companies require you to complete annual maintenance in order to maintain the HVAC system’s warranty.
During the service appointment, the HVAC specialist will replace your air filters, check the system coils for dust and clean them as needed, and inspect ductwork. These simple tasks will help keep your system running efficiently so your HVAC system can maintain air quality and keep you cool throughout the summer months.
4. Check windows and doors
Even tiny changes to the windows or doors can cause drafts and the loss of heat or cooled air, causing you to pay higher-than-necessary energy bills.
Walk around your home and inspect all of its windows and doors. Look for any gaps in woodwork, cracked or missing weather stripping, or foggy or condensation-filled windows – which can mean the double-paned windows are compromised.
Apply fresh caulking or weather stripping to seal the gaps and prevent energy loss. If the windows and doors are older, consider replacing them. Although replacing windows is a hefty investment, it can pay off; according to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading your windows can save you between 7% and 15% on your home energy bills.
5. Test home safety devices
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are relatively inexpensive, but they’re critical to protect your house and family. Unfortunately, many people have units that aren’t working, either due to dead batteries or a malfunctioning detector. Indeed, home fires that resulted in fatalities and serious property damage often had no detector present, or one that failed to operate.
Test all of your home safety devices at least twice a year. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly, install fresh batteries, and inspect your fire extinguishers.
Caring for your home
The warmer weather means spring has arrived, so it’s the perfect time to check items off your spring home maintenance checklist. Using these home maintenance tips on a regular schedule will improve your home’s efficiency, prevent costly repairs and boost your overall enjoyment of your home.
If you already keep a spring cleaning list, consider pairing it with seasonal inspections so your cleaning routine also helps you spot leaks, wear and weather damage. That combination can make your spring house cleaning checklist more useful and help you prioritize the repairs that matter most.
