As warmer breezes begin to chase away the chill of winter, it’s time to prepare your home for spring – rain, sunshine, wind, and all! A thorough spring maintenance routine helps keep you and your home comfortable with the changing weather.
Here’s a comprehensive checklist to get your home spring ready! Plus, these tips can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Schedule System Inspections and Services
Heating & Cooling System Check
Indiana springs bring shifting temperatures, which puts strain on your heating and cooling system. Keep your system running smoothly by scheduling a professional inspection to check for any necessary repairs or maintenance. Plus, the air filter should be changed. A well-maintained system will keep you comfortable throughout the spring and summer months.
Make sure to check your external HVAC unit. Give it a quick clean to remove any dirt, debris, or obstructions. Throughout the spring and summer months, watch for and remove any plant overgrowth at the base of the unit.
Home Exterior Check
A home exterior check is a great way to make sure the outside of your house is in the best possible shape after winter’s harsh conditions. Schedule an inspection for your:
ROOFING: The structural integrity of your house is largely impacted by the health of your roof. A roof inspection allows you to assess any winter damage and make necessary repairs. Check for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or any signs of leaks.You’ll also want to remove any debris that may have collected over the winter.
SIDING: Inspect your siding for any signs of damage, like holes, dents, cracks, or warping. Look at the shutters to see if they are hanging loosely, broken, or warped.
TRIM & FASCIA: Check the trim and fascia for wood rot, cracks or splits, warping, and moss growth.
Plumbing System Check
Winter can be hard on the plumbing in your house. A professional plumbing system check is recommended on a yearly basis. A spring plumbing system check can catch any issues that may have developed over the winter, such as frozen or cracked pipes, leaks, or clogged drains. As temperatures rise, hidden damage can lead to costly water waste and potential flooding. Inspecting pipes, checking for leaks, testing water pressure, and ensuring outdoor faucets are functioning properly can prevent major problems.
Electrical system Check
Regular electrical system checks are essential for safety, efficiency, and preventing costly repairs. Over time, wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers can degrade or become overloaded, increasing the risk of electrical fires or power failures. A professional inspection can identify potential hazards, ensure your system meets current safety codes, and improve energy efficiency.
Energy Efficiency Inspection
Your home’s insulation is the key element to maintaining indoor comfort and impacts your energy efficiency. An energy efficiency check at the start of spring is a great way to reduce utility costs and keep your home comfortable as temperatures rise.
Checking windows and doors for drafts and sealing gaps or air leaks helps keep your ideal temperature inside and the fluctuating outdoor temperatures out. Cleaning or replacing air filters and ensuring your thermostat is functioning properly can also enhance efficiency. By taking these steps in the spring, you can prepare your home for the warmer months while keeping energy bills in check.
We recommend You Thoroughly Inspect…
Walk Around the Exterior of your house and check for cracks in or pooling of water around the foundation
Check Your Basement, Crawlspace, and/or Attic for signs of moisture, mold, or pests. Pay attention for any odd smells, which could point to ventilation issues.
Inspect Your Sump Pump for any damage and keep your property safe from flooding and extra moisture and avoid costly repairs to your home.
Check and Clean the Gutters, Downspouts, and Yard Drainage to prevent water damage and foundation issues. Remove any debris to avoid clogs and standing water.
Clean & Inspect Your Fireplace & Chimney to remove any buildup or debris from use over the winter. If you notice any issues, schedule a full inspection with a licensed chimney technician.
Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors and replace batteries. Check the date code and update as needed. Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years and carbon monoxide detectors every 5 years.
Other Spring Maintenance Tips
- Shake Off the Winter with Spring Cleaning: On a warm day this spring, open your windows for some fresh air and give often neglected areas, like windows, railings, ceiling fans, etc., a good cleaning.
- Pest Control: Check for signs of pests and contact an exterminator to take any necessary or preventative measures.
- Prepare Your Lawn and Garden: Aerate the soil, apply fertilizer, and prune trees and shrubs.
- Set Up Your Outdoor Spaces: Clean your deck, patio, and driveway and check for wear and tear. Pull out and arrange your patio furniture & revamp your decor!
Taking these simple steps can save you time, money, and stress later. Use this spring home maintenance checklist to ensure your home is ready for the season, so you can focus on enjoying the longer days and warmer weather.
Cook Home Services is proud to service the Crawfordsville and surrounding communities in Indiana for:
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- and more!
Our mission is to provide you with quality comfort and home improvement services with 100% possible satisfaction. We strive to accomplish this mission by offering the highest quality products installed by highly trained professionals who customize indoor comfort solutions and home renovations that fit the client’s individual lifestyles.