Home Maintenance for Spring

With April just around the corner, homeowners in the PNW are getting excited about the warmer weather, outdoor activities, and the brilliant sunshine they've been missing during the winter months. Of course, spring brings with it a fresh home maintenance list. Spring cleaning of your house is crucial for long term quality and operation. During the winter, our area can experience heavy rains, high winds, snow, critter invasions and fluctuating temps. Go beyond window washing this spring and turn your eye toward home maintenance to ensure that you can best enjoy the warmer months ahead. Keep your stress low and variables minimal by following this checklist designed for the upcoming season! For all these tasks, please use caution if performing alone or use a professional service.

Check Out the Exterior

Roof

The cold, wet winter takes a toll on our roofs as the freeze-thaw cycle shifts shingles out of place. Secure your shingles, especially around gutters and eaves, before they fall off. Be sure to clear any moss or debris in the process as they increase wear on your roof.

Gutters

Spring rains are on their way, and your gutters also do an important job in maintaining your roof by directing moisture. Make sure they are clear and positioned to take runoff far enough away from your foundation.

Doors and Windows

Check the seals on your doors and windows for wear and tear from winter. Door seals are easily replaced and window caulking can be touched up to ensure they prevent rot on surrounding trim and walls.

Outdoor Walkways, Driveways, and Living Areas

Start by pressure washing these surfaces to remove moss and stains - then assess heavily trafficked areas for signs of wear. Wood, stone, concrete, and brick all need to be cleaned, sealed, and regrouted according to the material's needs: cracks and wood rot pose a serious safety hazard and the defects can put a damper on your summer fun.

Freshen Up the Interior

HVAC

Replacing your furnace filter is vital to your HVAC system's longevity. By buying high quality filters in bulk online you can save tens of dollars, but this routine maintenance, along with your annual HVAC Service, will save you tens of thousands when it comes to HVAC repair down the road.

Fire Safety

Take 5 minutes to perform a system test on your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, then another 5 to educate your family on what to do in case of an emergency. Make sure adults know the location of your fire extinguisher and are familiar with its uses and operations.

Optimize your Appliances

In addition to pulling out your fridge, oven, washer and dryer for cleaning, take time to assess the safety and function of your water and gas lines and dryer vents. Avoid fire hazards by degreasing hood vents and clearing debris accumulation from dryer areas. If you used a wood burning fireplace for extra coziness this winter, consider a chimney sweep.

Moisture Control

Grab your brightest flashlight and head to your basement or crawl space. Are there any visible stains, drips, musty smells or even standing water? These signs of moisture could lead to mold and rot, serious health and safety risks to your family and your home.

Pest Control

Bugs and rodents are a vital part of our ecosystem but we all agree that they are not welcome guests inside our homes. Be proactive with an inspection especially in attic and garage spaces. Sprays and traps are designed to prevent larger problems, and there are a variety on the market that could suit your home's needs.

These are action items that have a direct impact on your home's maintenance outlook for the summer season. If you perform these cursory checks and find a couple of issues that you need to dive deeper on, rest assured you will have saved yourself future headaches by being proactive. To schedule inspections and repairs, contact a local company in advance to make sure your home receives the care it needs this season. We are happy to share our favorite and trusted vendors with you! Send an email to RTGroup@rsir.com with #SpringMaintenance in subject line and we will connect you.