Real Estate: A Homeowner's Guide to Spring Home Maintenance

Submitted by Jonathan Priest 

Outdoor Spring Cleanup

Roof & Exterior

Do a ground-level inspection of the roof and home exterior to check for signs of winter weather damage. If you spot problem areas, you may need to schedule a professional inspection. 

Look for: Loose or broken shingles

Cracks or signs of wear on the chimney

Damaged wood around windows and doors

Signs of animal/pest intrusions or nesting

Although a home exterior is designed to withstand exposure to the elements, periodic cleaning can improve the appearance and, in some cases, prolong the life of siding and other exterior details, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). 

Lawn Mower

Before firing up your mower for the first time this spring, inspect the blade. If it needs sharpening, have a professional sharpen it. Set the blade height at 1.5 inches to 2 inches for the first cutting. (Cutting more than one-third of the leaf blade when mowing can “shock” the lawn and cause browning.) After the first cut, set the blade height to 3 inches, which can help promote grass color and root growth.

Gutters

Carefully remove debris that can clog gutters. Water overflow from a clogged gutter can damage fascia boards and the foundation, as well as cause leaks across walls and ceilings.

Deck

Hammer or tighten nails or screws that have popped from deck boards. Look for loose or cracked boards and repair as needed. Wash wooden or composite decks with a cleaning solution designed for the material. 

Pool

Inspect valves, filters and equipment for signs of wear or damage, and change or clean as needed. Or schedule an opening date with a pool service. 

Indoor Spring Cleanup

Kitchen

Even with the best range hood, grease can build up on the tops (and fronts) of kitchen cabinets. Feel around for stickiness and use a good degreaser on the surfaces.

Freshen up the garbage disposal by grinding ice cubes (even better, lemon/vinegar ice cubes or rock salt and ice cubes), then flushing with hot water and baking soda.

Vacuum dust buildup from refrigerator coils to restore its efficiency. Clean seals and change the water filter.

Clean the range hood; clean filters (if you can, remove and run them through the dishwasher). 

Attic

Attics need a post-winter once-over to check insulation for dampness (replace any that's wet) and seal cracks and leaks. Look for mold, insects or animals that may have crept in. Assess the area around vents to ensure nothing is blocking vents before summer heat builds.

Basement

Dampness loves a dark, underground space. Look for moisture and mold around the bottom of the foundation and seal any cracks. Check for excess humidity (consider a dehumidifier if needed). Open vents. Look for evidence of insect tunneling in any wooden framing.

Heating & Cooling

The heat has been running all winter and the air conditioner needs to be ready to go. Replace HVAC filters and check the drain pan to make sure it is draining and hoses are sound and connected. (Or schedule a biannual checkup/servicing.) If you use window air conditioners, it's time to install them.

Plumbing

The most common type of water damage to homes isn't caused by hurricanes or floods. It's caused by the dishwasher, hot water heater and other appliances or plumbing. Spring is a good reminder to give toilets, sinks and connecting pipes and hoses a good once-over for signs of cracks, leaks or dampness. Replace anything that appears worn or loose. 

Check ceilings for telltale water stains and track leak.

Fix drippy faucets and showerheads and replace worn toilet flappers.

Electrical

Check all outlets and cords for frayed wires, loose outlet covers or cracked plugs. Make sure extension cords and outlets aren't overloaded. Put surge protectors where needed to protect electronics. 

Appliances

A home's workhorses are easy to take for granted, but a small problem can cause a disastrous leak or fire. Spring is a good time to check washer and dryer hoses and connectors for wear and tear. Also, detach the dryer vent tube and vacuum or brush out lint.

Draining the hot water heater to remove sediment can help prolong its life. If you have a water pressure gauge, test the temperature/pressure relief valve. Most plumbing codes state that the maximum water pressure in a home should be 80 PSI or less (ideally between 50 and 60 PSI).

With snow melting and spring rains starting, it's a good time to run the sump pump through its paces. Clean out any debris. Pour in water and make sure it starts. Check the outflow hose. 

Chimney

Even if you don't regularly use your fireplace, an annual chimney inspection can ensure the flue is clear and sound, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America. <

This article was brought to you courtesy of Farmers Insurance agent, Jonathan Priest, with an office at 57 Tandberg Trail, Suite 7, Windham. Call him at 207-893-8184 or send him an email at jpriest1@farmersagent.com