Spring Maintenance Checklist

The weather is getting warmer and for most of Canada a good portion of the snow has melted so we all know what that means, seasonal maintenance time. Aside from general spring cleaning, what else is there to do? As homeowners it seems the list of maintenance items can seem never ending. 

What’s the big deal with home maintenance any why should you do it?

• Maintaining your property can help keep up your property value.
• Staying on top of your seasonal maintenance means there will be less tasks to complete each season.
• Keeping up with your property’s maintenance can help to protect your home from weather threats.
• Properly maintaining your property now can help you save some money in the long run by identifying issues when they’re smaller and less expensive to repair.
• It looks good! At the end of the day a property that is well maintained is generally a better looking property than one that has fallen to disrepair.

With so many different tasks to do to maintain your home where should you start?

Inside:

A general spring cleaning is a good place to start by tidying and decluttering your indoor space. Once your indoor space is clean it will make it easier to check over the other areas of the house.

A top down approach is a good way to know where to start with your maintenance.

1. Check out the attic.  Following a cold winter, it is important to check the attic to ensure no leaks have developed. While you’re up there it’s a good idea to check for any possible mold as well as any mice or other critters that may have hid in there for the winter. 
2. Check your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm batteries and ensure they are all in good working order.
3. Take a look at your windows and doors inspecting all screens for holes. Screens can be easily patched or replaced. 
4. While inspecting your doors and windows check weather seals, replacing any that are getting worn. Spring and summer is also a good time to repair any cracks in window sills or repair edges around casings. 
5. Inspect your basement to make sure there isn’t any water getting inside.  While down there it is good to check for any possible cracks in the foundation or signs of heaving. 
6. Throughout the entire house it is important to check for leaks and mold, checking any areas where water damage could happen. Mold issues need to be addressed as soon as possible. 
7. Have your furnace and air conditioner units cleaned.  This should be done by a professional.  Regularly having your furnace and AC unit cleaned can help reduce heating and cooling costs and should be done annually. At this time of year, it is important to change your furnace filter as it will reduce the amount of dust and other allergens in your home. 

Outside:

Once you’ve inspected and addressed any issues inside, there are even more things to be done outside. 

1. Clear gutters and downspouts to avoid having them overflow once spring and summer rains come. This will also help avoid damage caused by downspouts and gutters overflowing. 
2. Inspect the roof for any missing shingles, damage to chimney, or any damaged flashings. If there is anything that doesn’t look quite right you may need to contact a roofer. 
3. Inspect the driveway and any walkways for cracks caused by freezing and thawing during the changing of the seasons. Some cracks can easily be fixed without needing to call in a professional. 
4. Complete a check of your sprinkler system if you have one set up to prepare it for the summer season.  Turn on your sprinkler by zone and walk your property verifying all heads are working properly and adjust any heads that aren’t spraying where they should be.  When working properly your sprinklers will use less water, saving you money on your bill!  If you are unsure of how to properly prepare your sprinklers be sure to use a professional. 
5. Complete general landscape maintenance by cutting and raking your grass to get rid of any residual snow mold, this will also help the new grass grow.

This is just a short list of the many things that can be done to maintain your property. Seasonal maintenance is important for keeping your home in good condition, even if you’d rather go for a hike or a picnic!