When most people think of spring cleaning, they focus on decluttering and scrubbing the inside of their home. However, spending time on exterior house maintenance is also wise.
There are many activities that homeowners need to tackle to keep their property in good shape, some of which should be done annually. By creating a thorough spring home maintenance checklist, you can make sure you don’t overlook a crucial step. Plus, you can up your curb appeal, too, ensuring your house looks its best, all while addressing any damage that may have occurred.
If you want to make sure your home’s exterior is in tip-top shape, here are ten spring maintenance tips for your home that can help.
10 Spring Maintenance Home Tips
1. Tackle Your Gutters
While cleaning out gutters isn’t the most fun, it is essential. Spring is usually the rainy season, and clogged gutters prevent water from being appropriately routed.
Additionally, loose or leaking gutters can cause major problems. If water pools in the wrong spots, it can promote rot, foundation issues, basement flooding, and more.
Spend time cleaning out your gutters. As you move along, check them for holes or issues with how the pieces connect. Ensure your downspouts are steering water in the right direction and that water isn’t pooling in spots where it shouldn’t.
2. Prep Your Landscaping
During the spring, your landscaping usually comes back to life. Before it reaches its fullest, spend some time giving it a once over, looking specifically for issues that could promote water or foundation damage.
For example, trim plants away from your home’s exterior walls and foundation. Plants that sit against your home can retain water, potentially leading to rot or siding and foundation issues. Similarly, larger plants and trees positioned too close to your home can end up with root systems that push into or against your foundation, weakening it over time and potentially causing a lot of damage.
If you have a sprinkler system, test it for leaks. Also, check your lawn for low points that might hold water and have them filled if you spot any.
3. Give Your Foundation a Once Over
Another important item for your spring maintenance checklist is a foundation inspection. Make sure to look over any exposed areas outside to see if you spot any cracks. If you have an unfinished basement, you can review the walls in there to give you more insight into the condition of your foundation.
It is important to note that not all cracks are indications of bigger problems. However, if you spot a crack, it’s wise to call a foundation professional for an official inspection. They’ll be able to tell you if any repairs are necessary to keep your home in good shape.
4. Check Your Roof
In some cases, roof damage can’t be spotted from the ground. Add to that the fact that winter can be particularly hard on your roof, and it’s even more important to take a look at it while conducting your spring house maintenance.
Begin by looking for damaged shingles. This can include any that are cracked, curled, or buckled, as well as ones that have come loose.
It’s also smart to look for moss and debris. Moss can be incredibly damaging, so if you spot any, you’ll want to treat it as soon as possible. Organic debris can hold moisture, potentially harming your roof if it’s allowed to sit. As a result, you want to remove it whenever possible.
When you clean off your roof, never use a power washer. The pressure can damage shingles, so it’s best to go with a gentler approach.
5. Repaint Worn Spots
Often, exterior paint protects the underlying surface from the elements. If you spot worn, chipped, or damaged paint, you may need to repaint to restore the protective barrier.
Along with checking your exterior walls, look at your trim and doors. If you only see small areas where repainting is necessary, you may be able to handle the project yourself. If a total repaint is required, working with an exterior painting contractor may be a better option.
6. Reseal Exterior Wood
If you have a wood deck or fence, resealing it every year or two is a smart move. Not only will it improve the look of the wood, but it also provides it with a protective barrier that can help it last longer.
Plus, while you reseal, you’ll be able to identify issues that may need repairing. Damaged boards, loose or missing nails or screws, or similar problems should be addressed quickly, ensuring your deck or fence is both safe and attractive.
7. Inspect Your Sidewalks and Driveway
Concrete and asphalt do break down over time, and gravel typically moves around. As part of your spring maintenance checklist, take a close look at any sidewalks, pathways, or driveways. See if any cracks or potholes are developing. If so, reach out to a contractor to schedule repairs.
8. Clean Your Windows
With spring comes more sunshine. If you want to enjoy natural light, clean windows make sure you can.
Usually, all you need is a standard window cleaner or a water and vinegar mix. Use a cloth, sponge, and a squeegee to get the job done right. Make sure to avoid abrasive cleaners and scrubbing pads, as those can damage the windows. Additionally, never use a power washer on windows, as they can harm the panes and seals.
If you find damaged window caulk, then you’ll want to replace it. The caulk prevents drafts and keeps water from getting where it shouldn’t, so this is one of the most critical spring home maintenance tips for avoiding water damage and keeping your home comfortable.
If you have screens, remove them for a cleaning. Again, use gentle tools to ensure you don’t damage the mesh. If you spot holes or tears, you can either get a repair kit or replace the screen, depending on how damaged it is.
9. Check Exterior Faucets
Here’s one of the more unexpected home maintenance tips for spring: checking exterior faucets. During the winter, freezing temperatures can cause water in the faucets and source water lines to freeze, potentially damaging the fixture and plumbing.
As a starting point, turn the water on to make sure it is flowing properly. If the flow isn’t what it should be, that could be a sign of a leak or damage, and you’ll want to contact a plumber.
If the flow from the faucet initially looks good, place your thumb over the opening while the water is running to see if you can stop the flow. If you can, that could mean that you have a damaged pipe, so you’ll want to call a plumber as soon as possible.
10. Clean Foundation Vents
If you have a crawlspace, your foundation usually has a few vents. These vents allow for airflow, which is critical for avoiding mold growth and moisture buildup.
Take a look at your foundation vents to see if they are blocked. At times, leaves and debris can press against the screens, and you’ll want to clear them to ensure air can move freely.
Additionally, check the screens for holes or damage. If the screens aren’t in good shape, replace them. Otherwise, critters may be able to get into your crawlspace and make that area their home, which can lead to severe problems.
