Spring and Spring cleaning are two things that we always put together this time of year. Spring is the time to shed the heavy winter clothes, open some windows and let the fresh air inside. It’s also the time of year to prep your home or rental property for the warmer weather ahead, so you need a Spring Home Maintenance Checklist
Taking the time to maintain your home keeps your property value up and increase your comfort and safety as well. Here are a few things you should be mindful of for your spring cleaning checklist.
- Styrofoam blocks – Remove any Styrofoam blocks from the foundation vents that may have been placed once the temperatures are above freezing.
- Gutters and Downspouts – Clean out your gutters and downspouts. If you neglect these, you can cause damage to your foundation. Clogged and neglected gutters lead to flooding and erosion issues.
- Prep your lawnmower – Check the oil and spark plugs in your lawnmower and take the time to sharpen and adjust the blade height. Getting your lawnmower ready for mowing season will ensure it’s in tip top shape.
- Fertilize your lawn – After removing any debris that might have accumulated on your lawn during its winter slumber take the time to repair any damaged areas. Core aeration is a great thing to do in the spring.
- Check your caulking – Caulking behind sinks and in your kitchen and bathrooms should be checked and replaced as needed.
- Kitchen appliances – Spring cleaning starts in the kitchen! Clean your appliances. Your dishwasher, microwave, fridge, stove and exhaust hoods have all been in full use all winter, and it’s time to give them some spring love. Clean up any grease splatters from your walls and exhaust hood, as well as any that may have reached your cabinets during your cooking fiascos. White vinegar is an amazing helper at removing these fun reminders. You can rinse the areas with warm water once wiped down. Soak any metal exhaust filters and then rinse.
- Replace furnace filters – It’s time to replace those well-used furnace filters. It may be a good idea to have the system inspected by a professional as well.
- Check your fire extinguishers – Take a moment to check your fire extinguishers and recharge them if needed. It’s important for fire safety to have these well maintained.
- Clean windows and doors – Windows, window tracks, sliding doors should be checked for smooth operation and cleaned thoroughly. If there are any screens they should be cleaned as well.
- Check your smoke detectors – Another important fire safety thing on your cleaning checklist is to check your smoke detectors. Test all of your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and replace batteries as necessary. A good way to remember is to always change your batteries at daylight savings time.
Taking the time to complete this simple checklist will keep your home safe and spring and summer ready. If you have any other questions or concerns regarding keeping your property and landscape safe, we are happy to help.