As winter begins to fade, it’ll soon be time to go back outside to do our annual spring check up on our homes. If you’re one of those people who struggle with knowing what to do in when, we’re here to help. Today, we’re going to talk about a small maintenance check list for you go through as we head into the spring months.
Let’s jump right in!
Windows and doors
Temperature is most influential at doors and windows. Hot air can go in and out, cold air can go in and out – and usually what’s coming in isn’t always what you want at a given point in the year. Make sure they’re in good shape!
“Making sure they’re in good shape” means that there’s proper sealing, no gaps around the edges and no breezes coming in and out. Windows also degrade over time and after enough exposure, they’ll lose a lot of their ability to do their job. Keep an eye on them, keep them cleaned and get them fixed as soon as anything goes wrong.
Deck and railings
Decks and railings are the best when they’re brand new, but over time they can show a large amount of wear and tear. If they’re left unattended for too long, they can become downright dangerous. Look for signs of decline – things like exposed wood, peeling finishes, rotting wood and other loose material.
And as a shout out to railings – they need to be protected as well. They suffer a lot simply by having to withstand constant weight, so keep an eye on them. The longer it takes you to replace that wobble, the more dangerous it’ll get.
Gutters and drainage
You might need to grab a ladder here, but it’s one of the most important things you do annually around your house. If you’re too fearful of getting up there, then that’s fine, just call a professional to do it. Here’s why:
Dirt, leaves and other crud can build up in gutters quickly. It creates more weight and can block the proper flow of water from your roof. In cold temperatures this could mean ice dams. In warmer climates it can mean extreme water retention. In both cases – it means rot and damage. It could also mean the gutter comes off your house! Then it’ll get really expensive! So keep on them!
Siding
Always be on the lookout for gaps and warping on the siding of your house. Keeping a solid barrier between your home and the elements can do a lot – from maintaining energy to damage and even preventing animals from nesting. It also means less ugly water staining!
If you’ve found any of these problems during your personal spring check up, give us a call! Good luck getting ready for the warmer weather!