The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining – it’s time for spring! With warmer weather on the way, it’s the perfect time to give your home a little extra love with some essential maintenance tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time renter, our 17 tips will help you get your home ready for a happy spring season in 2023.
So grab your gloves, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s get started!
1. Clean your windows and check window screens for any damage
Winter can leave your windows covered in grime, so a good cleaning is necessary. Mix two parts water with one part vinegar to make a cleaning solution, and use a squeegee or a microfiber cloth to clean the windows. While you’re at it, inspect your window screens for any holes or tears and replace them if necessary.
2. Maintain and repair any damage to hardscaping caused by shifting soil
With the changing seasons, the soil around your home can shift, causing damage to your hardscaping. Keep an eye out for any uneven pavers and remove weeds that are beginning to grow between cracks and along stonework. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further issues.
3. Refresh your landscaping by removing debris and pruning
The harsh winter months can take a toll on your landscaping, so it’s important to tidy it up. Start by removing any fallen branches or debris, then prune any damaged or overgrown plants. This will give your yard a fresh look and promote new growth. Here are ten ideas to get you started: https://vanpooleproperties.com/2021/05/11/10-landscaping-ideas/
4. Check your outdoor lighting and outlets.
As the days get longer, you’ll want to make sure your outdoor lighting and outlets are working properly. Test your porch lights, landscape lighting, and motion-sensing security lights to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Replace any bulbs or schedule repairs as needed.
5. Inspect your foundation for any cracks or damage
The drastic temperature changes during the winter months can cause the ground beneath your home to contract, shift, and expand, potentially causing damage to your foundation. Take a walk around your home and check your foundation for any cracks or damage. If damage is discovered, consult a professional to inspect and repair any deficiencies to prevent further issues.
6. Seal any damaged woodwork to extend its lifespan
The varying temperatures and moisture levels that winter brings can wreak havoc on your home’s woodwork. Staining and resealing fences, awnings, and molding around your home every few years will increase their longevity and save you money in the long run.
7. Keep an eye on your irrigation systems to prevent leaks
A faulty sprinkler or irrigation hose can quickly cause problems for your lawn and garden, and drive up your utility costs. Check these components regularly to ensure they are working properly and free of any leaks.
8. Check play equipment for safety hazards
Over time, wood, ropes, and fastenings can degrade, making outdoor play equipment potentially unsafe. Check swings, zip lines, slides, and other structures for any safety hazards such as splintering or loose bolts, and repair or replace as needed.
9. Promote healthy growth of your lawn with overseeding and fertilization
If your lawn has thinned out over the winter or developed problem spots, overseeding is a quick and easy way to promote healthy growth. Spread grass seed over the area and follow up with fertilizer to give your lawn the nutrients it needs to thrive.
10. Clean your gutters to avoid water damage
Clogged gutters can cause damage to wood trim and not allow water to flow properly from downspouts, allowing water to pool around your foundation. Remove any debris or leaves from your gutters, and ensure that downspouts are unobstructed and directing water away from your home.
11. Remove standing water to prevent mosquito infestations
Spring rains can create pools of standing water, which mosquitos love. Even a small planter that fills with water can become a mosquito haven, so take a walk around your property and identify potential problem areas. If you have a pool, running the pump will also help to keep mosquitos at bay.
12. Deep clean your grill
With grilling season just around the corner, it’s important to give your grill a thorough cleaning before firing it up for the first time. Over time, excess grease can accumulate and become a potential fire hazard. Clean the grates and interior with a grill brush and wash the exterior with warm, soapy water. It’s also a great time to deep clean your grilling tools and stock up on fuel.
13. Schedule an A/C tuneup
Don’t wait until the hot summer months to find out your air conditioning unit needs repairs. Schedule a professional tuneup to make sure your A/C is in tip-top shape for the season ahead. The technician will inspect and clean the unit, replace filters, and make any necessary repairs. This is an inexpensive way to give yourself peace of mind and ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable all summer long.
14. Clear out the clutter!
After months of being cooped up inside during the winter, it’s common for items to accumulate in closets, cabinets, sheds, and garages. Take the opportunity to declutter your home by hosting a garage sale with your neighbors, donating items to charity, or simply conducting a thorough spring cleaning.
15. Give your walls some love
Dust and grime can accumulate on walls and baseboards, so it’s important to give them a good cleaning. Use a dusting attachment on your vacuum or an electrostatic duster to remove dust from walls and corners. For a deeper clean, wipe down walls with warm, soapy water after dusting. And don’t forget to touch up any scuffs or chipped paint on your interior walls and trim.
16. Take a close look at your kitchen & bath fixtures
Plumbing fixtures in your kitchen and bathrooms can experience wear and tear over time, which can lead to leaks and other issues. Inspect your sinks, faucets, showerheads, and toilets for any signs of damage or slow leaks. Make a plan to regrout or recaulk around counters and tile as needed. If you notice any slow leaks, have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent water damage and costly repairs down the line.
17. Safety First!!
Spring is a great time to check that your home’s safety features are in good working order. Test the batteries on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace them as needed. Review your family’s fire escape plan, and make sure your fire extinguishers are up-to-date and easily accessible. And don’t forget to periodically check for recalls of your home safety products at Recalls.gov.
Have a spring maintenance tip to share? We’d love to hear from you! Also, if you need service providers for any of the above items, give us a call at 214-267-9222 today and we would be happy to refer to you pros that our clients have had great experiences with.
